Mid Scientist

ECS Tech Inc•Arlington, VA

7d•$100,000 - $150,000•Onsite

About The Position

Everforth ECS is seeking a Mid Scientist who wants to work close to the research shaping future national-security capabilities. You will support DARPA MXO program managers by examining difficult technical questions, assessing research performers, and turning complex scientific evidence into concise recommendations that influence program execution. You will join an integrated scientific, engineering, and program support team that works alongside DARPA program managers from early concept development through program execution, testing, transition, and closeout. DARPA's Multi X Office applies the physical sciences across scales and disciplines to create mission-relevant capabilities. Its work extends from materials at the atomic, molecular, and cellular scales to components, tools, processes, manufacturing approaches, and domestic supply chains for critical technologies, new modalities for sensing, orienting, computing, communicating, and producing mission effects, and technical domains that include effects, energy, quantum science, organics and materials, new compute, robotics, and photonics. Depending on program assignment, your work may involve these areas or other emerging MXO priorities.

Requirements

Master's degree
8 or more years of relevant experience
U.S. citizenship required for security-clearance eligibility
Progressively responsible experience planning and developing R&D projects involving difficult, novel, or controversial technical problems relevant to major defense programs.
Demonstrated ability to conceive, plan, and conduct research of considerable scope and complexity using advanced or unconventional methods.
Ability to make independent judgments on R&D engineering questions, resolve important technical issues, and coordinate work across contributors.
Experience applying advanced techniques, theories, and practices in a scientific or engineering discipline relevant to MXO.
Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to explain findings to technical and non-technical audiences.

Responsibilities

Analyze emerging research, performer data, test results, and technical risks across one or more MXO technology areas.
Participate in program reviews, site visits, demonstrations, proposal evaluations, and independent technical assessments.
Research new concepts and help determine whether they offer sufficient technical merit, feasibility, and military relevance for DARPA investment.
Prepare clear briefings and written assessments for technical experts, program leaders, and non-technical stakeholders.
Advise DARPA program managers on program planning, technical execution, cost, schedule, risk, and transition considerations throughout the R&D lifecycle.
Assess performer progress through technical reviews, site visits, laboratory results, tests, demonstrations, and other program events; identify concerns early and recommend practical risk-reduction actions.
Coordinate with performers, Government partners, test organizations, transition stakeholders, and other technical experts to keep complex efforts moving toward measurable program objectives.
Develop clear technical and programmatic products for DARPA leadership and external stakeholders, including review briefings, decision materials, trip reports, technical assessments, and program documentation.
Support the development of new program concepts by researching emerging science and technology, evaluating military relevance and feasibility, and contributing to trade studies, sensitivity analyses, and new-start materials.
Provide independent, objective advice while protecting sensitive information and complying with all security, organizational conflict-of-interest, and Government requirements.