Job Description

Tactical Systems Analyst

Department: Engineering

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: Arlington, VA

Compensation: $164,000 - $328,000 / year

Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT), provider of cutting-edge cloud-based integration, automated testing and data analysis for complex, mission-critical systems in the US Department of Defense (DOD), is seeking a Tactical Systems Analyst with Navy operational experience to be based in our Arlington, VA office. Leveraging advanced software automation, model-based systems engineering (MBSE), and AI-driven capabilities, IDT accelerates capability development, enhances operational readiness, and reduces lifecycle costs for the Department of Defense. The company is dedicated to transforming defense systems through innovation, efficiency, and mission-critical results. IDT’s Warfare Systems Business Area (BA) is responsible for building and enabling the Navy’s next generation of tactical warfare and weapons systems. As the nation enters a new era of warfare, the Warfare Systems group will be responsible for enabling and accelerating the tactical capability that is delivered to the warfighter. This role is ideal for former or aspiring Navy Weapons Tactics Instructors (WTIs) who possess deep operational insight into surface warfare, electronic warfare, or integrated air and missile defense. The Tactical Systems Analyst will serve as the bridge between the warfighter and the engineer—ensuring that operational realities inform and shape the development of next-generation tactical systems.While prior designation as a WTI is highly desired, it is not required. The ideal candidate will have recent operational experience and a passion for translating fleet needs into actionable engineering requirements. All applicants must be able to obtain/maintain an active U.S. Security Clearance.

Key Responsibilities

Responsibilities Include:

• Support tactical system design by informing engineering teams of operational constraints, priorities, and CONOPS
• Engage in technical and operational reviews of software and system concepts to ensure warfighter relevance
• Translate Navy fleet requirements into clear and actionable user stories and system requirements
• Collaborate with program managers, engineers, and software developers to ensure alignment with Navy missions
• Participate in fleet experimentation, T&E events, and feedback loops for deployed or prototype systems
• Contribute to the development of system-level tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs)
• Leverage firsthand operational experience to define operationally impactful and data-driven analyses
• Serve as a subject matter advisor on fleet employment of combat and tactical systems
• Support proposal development and concept exploration for new Navy technology efforts

Skills Knowledge & Expertise

Minimum Required Qualifications:

• 15+ years of operational experience in the U.S. Navy, with emphasis on surface warfare, IAMD, or EW
• Strong understanding of Navy tactical employment of sensors, weapons, and C2 systems
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with both engineering teams and military operators
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent military training in relevant fields

Required Skills:

• Experience supporting PEO IWS or NAVSEA system development programs
• Operational experience with AEGIS, SSDS, or similar tactical systems
• Familiarity with systems engineering or test and evaluation processes
• Experience briefing senior leaders and writing for operational audiences

Preferred Skills and/or 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
• Graduate of the Navy’s WTI program (IAMD, ASW/SUW, MIW, etc.)

Competencies:

• Deep operational insight and credibility with the Surface Navy fleet
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to synthesize operational needs into engineering requirements
• Strong interpersonal skills to facilitate cross-disciplinary collaboration
• Self-starter capable of navigating ambiguity in early-stage system design

Pay Range: $164,000 - $273,000 or $198,000 - $328,000 This amount may not be reflective of actual compensation that may be earned as pay is dependent on a candidate’s experience, skills, and education. The posted range does not include bonuses, commissions, tips, or other benefits. IDT is often looking to place multiple candidates at various levels. Therefore, more than one pay range has been included, commensurate with experience.

Benefits

Why Work at Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT):IDT is a growing company with a vibrant, entrepreneurial culture. We are headquartered in Arlington, VA with additional offices in Fall River, MA; Mount Laurel, NJ; and San Diego, CA. At each location, our employees work together in a modern, snack-filled, and social office space, designing innovative solutions for our defense industry customers. We offer employees competitive pay and benefits including:

• Generous benefits package
• Competitive PTO
• Paid holidays
• 401(k) with immediate vesting and matching
• 9/80 optional schedule (2nd and 4th Friday off every month)
• Tuition Assistance Reimbursement Program
• Professional Development Resources
• Pre-Tax Commuter Benefits
• Organization-Wide Monthly Tech Connect Events
• Annual Employee Recognition Awards
• Regular Social Events and Catered Lunches

EEO Statement:IDT is an Equal Opportunity employer.