Weapons Systems Officer (Senior SME)

Blue Sky Innovators•Arlington, VA

20h•$200,000 - $250,000•Onsite

About The Position

Blue Sky Innovators is seeking a highly experienced U.S. Air Force Combat Pilot or Weapons Systems Officer (WSO) with a minimum of 15 years of operational experience and demonstrated expertise supporting Special Access Programs (SAPs). This role provides direct support to senior Department of the Air Force leadership at the Pentagon, delivering mission-critical expertise in advanced air superiority, Low Observable (LO) / Counter-Low Observable (CLO) technologies, and strategic defense systems. You will operate at the intersection of operations, acquisition, and advanced capabilities—helping shape decisions that impact the future of U.S. air and space dominance.

Requirements

Minimum 15+ years of USAF operational experience as a Combat Pilot or Weapons Systems Officer
Demonstrated experience supporting or working within Special Access Programs (SAPs)
Deep expertise in air superiority, advanced weapons systems, electronic warfare, or ISR operations
Strong understanding of LO/CLO technologies and operational applications
Current Top Secret (TS) clearance (active)
Ability to work full-time onsite at the Pentagon

Nice To Haves

Experience supporting MAJCOM, Headquarters Air Force, or OSD-level organizations
Background in systems engineering, requirements development, or acquisition support
Willing to learn about foreign military sales (FMS) and export compliance processes
Master’s degree, Engineering, Defense Studies, or related field desired
Fighter, bomber, ISR, or RPA operational background required

Responsibilities

Provide senior-level insight based on extensive combat aviation experience to inform strategic and acquisition decisions.
Deliver expert analysis and recommendations on Low Observable and Counter-LO technologies in support of SAF/AQL priorities.
Contribute to systems engineering efforts across advanced weapons systems and next-generation air superiority initiatives.
Advise on and support highly classified SAP efforts, ensuring operational relevance and technical rigor.
Conduct technical assessments of industry export applications involving sensitive technologies and support development of U.S. Government positions.
Interface directly with Pentagon leadership, providing actionable recommendations on critical defense programs.