Action Officer- Strategic Focus Job Listing at SPA in Arlington, VA (Job ID 2024-18855)

Description

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor's Degree in a biological, chemical, or related field
• Active Secret clearance and able to obtain TS/SCI
• Willingness to be onsite at DARPA headquarters most of the time (anticipated travel 10%-20%)
• Experience in strategy development in the commercial Science and Technology (S&T) sector, U.S. Government, or the armed forces
• Experience working on Research and Development (R&D) or Science and Technology (S&T) portfolios
• Exceptional team player with excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to multi-task and reprioritize continuously in a fast-paced environment

Desired: 

• Advanced degree
• Active TS/SCI clearance
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders
• Proactive and self-motivated with a strong sense of ownership and responsibility

The Biological Technologies Office (BTO) at DARPA is seeking a highly motivated and skilled candidate for the position of Action Officer (Strategic). This role provides comprehensive and seamless support to the Office Director (OD) and Deputy Director (DD), focusing on long-term strategic initiatives and project management. The Action Officer will play a critical role in developing and executing the multi-year strategic plan for the BTO, ensuring alignment with DARPA's mission and goals. Collaborate with the Office Director, Deputy Director, lead Technical SETA, and other senior leaders to develop and implement the BTO's long-term strategic plan, ensuring alignment with DARPA's overall mission and objectives. Identify and analyze emerging trends, opportunities, and challenges in the biological and technological domains to inform strategic decision-making. Translate the BTO's strategic vision into actionable plans and initiatives, and monitor their progress and effectiveness. Conduct in-depth analyses of complex scientific, technological, and programmatic issues in conjunction with the front office science team and intelligence analysts to inform strategic decision-making and provide recommendations to BTO leadership. Stay abreast of relevant policies, regulations, and governance frameworks that impact BTO's operations and research activities, and advise leadership on compliance and risk management strategies. Provide strategic guidance and oversight for BTO's high-impact projects, ensuring they align with the office's long-term objectives and priorities. Oversee the formation of BTO's advisory council (BSAT) and run BSAT meetings. Collaborate with technical staff to develop and refine project strategies, milestones, and success metrics. Identify, cultivate, and manage strategic partnerships and collaborations with key external stakeholders, including other government agencies, academic institutions, industry partners, and international entities. Develop and oversee the implementation of BTO's strategic communications plan, ensuring effective and consistent messaging across all channels and audiences. Collaborate with the Tactical Action Officer and other staff to prepare high-level strategic documents, such as annual reports, strategic plans, and project summaries, for internal and external stakeholders. Engage with DARPA's Public Affairs Office to manage BTO's media relations and external communications, ensuring alignment with the office's strategic objectives and messaging.