Electronic Warfare Systems Architect

Position Overview

Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT), a provider of cutting‑edge cloud‑based integration, automated testing, and data analysis for complex, mission‑critical systems within the US Department of Defense, is seeking an experienced Electronic Warfare and Soft Kill Systems Architect Subject Matter Expert (SME) for our Arlington, VA office. In this role, you will serve as the principal technical lead in developing and integrating next‑generation Electronic Warfare (EW) and Soft Kill capabilities for U.S. Navy programs, with a strong focus on supporting Program Executive Office Integrated Warfare Systems (PEO IWS) and surface warfare systems. All applicants must currently possess an active U.S. Security Clearance.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as technical lead for EW and Soft Kill systems architecture and design.
• Collaborate with PEO IWS stakeholders to define, refine, and validate operational requirements.
• Lead technical teams in concept development, prototyping, and system integration efforts.
• Provide oversight and direction for subcontracted technical work related to EW and countermeasure subsystems.
• Translate mission requirements into architectural blueprints and design artifacts.
• Support program management by monitoring cost, schedule, and technical performance across multiple workstreams.
• Perform system‑level trades, interface definition, and risk assessments.
• Coordinate test and evaluation strategies aligned with Navy mission needs and CONOPS.
• Participate in technical readiness reviews, system integration testing, and operational assessments.
• Contribute to new business strategy by identifying EW‑related growth opportunities and crafting technical solutions.

Required Qualifications

• 15+ years of experience in Navy operational or system engineering roles, with focus on Electronic Warfare, Soft Kill systems, or Countermeasures.
• Proven experience supporting PEO IWS or Navy program offices.
• Demonstrated experience with EW architectures, RF and IR countermeasures, or related tactical systems.
• Experience leading engineering teams and managing subcontracted technical efforts.
• Strong understanding of systems engineering practices, including requirements derivation, interface management, and V&V.
• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related field—or equivalent professional experience.
• Experience in the Navy or Joint EW communities, including operational assignments or program office support.
• Familiarity with the DoD acquisition lifecycle and major capability acquisition (MCA) programs.
• Experience working with OPNAV, NAVSEA, or warfare centers such as NSWC Crane or Dahlgren.
• Understanding of modular open systems architecture (MOSA), AEA, or directed energy systems.
• Proven experience in integrating multiple sensor data into the EW Kill Chain.
• Technical writing experience for proposals, white papers, and architecture documentation.

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with foundational networking concepts such as routing, switching, identity services, intrusion detection, and firewall.
• Familiarity with virtual machines in VMWare vSphere environments including networking configuration.
• Familiarity with complex software development environments including submodules, remote dependencies, and mixed‑code deployments.

Compensation & Benefits

• Compensation: $164,000 - $273,000 or $198,000 - $328,000
• Compensation is dependent on experience, skills, and education. The posted range does not include bonuses, commissions, tips, or other benefits.