Legal Assistant

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) delivers high-impact, technical solutions to complex national security issues. With over 50 years of business expertise and consistent growth, we are known for continuous innovation for our government customers, in both the US and abroad. Our exceptionally talented team is highly collaborative in spirit and practice, producing Results that Matter. Come work with the best! We offer opportunity, unique challenges, and clear-sighted commitment to the mission. SPA: Objective. Responsive. Trusted.  

The Joint, Office of the Secretary of Defense, Interagency Division provides expert support services to a range of customers spanning across the Department of Defense, Federal Civilian, and international markets. JOID provides a diverse portfolio of analytical and programmatic capabilities to help our customers make informed decisions on their most challenging issues.

The Acquisition and Technology Analysis Group within JOID provides the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) technical expertise for decision support to ensure technical overmatch for the U.S. Armed Forces against any potential adversaries. Our team of experienced military, technical, and operations research analysts is skilled exploring cutting-edge technology and helping government program managers evaluate, select, and manage research programs to transition promising technologies and ensure U.S. military forces retain technological superiority in the future.

SPA has an immediate need for a Legal Assistant to provide onsite support in Arlington, VA.

SPA seeks an energetic graduate from an ABA-accredited law school to conduct legal research, perform analysis, and communicate results (both orally and in written formats), with focused support to the DARPA Ethics Program. Assist in providing advice to DARPA offices regarding legal matters that are within the scope of the DARPA mission. Draft recommendations regarding policy for DARPA’s Standards of Conduct program.

Required Qualifications:

• Master’s degree or JD
• 3+ years experience
• Demonstrated experience preparing briefs, developing Excel spreadsheets, and coordinating meetings
• Demonstrated ability to conduct legal research and to draft legal documents which are clear, concise, and logically constructed
• Strong organizational skills, ability to multi-task and respond to quick turn-around requests, and proficiency with modern PC systems and tools
• Active Secret clearance

Desired Qualifications: 

• Active TS/SCI clearance
• DARPA or DoD (R&E) experience
• Proficiency with Government ethics and knowledge of applicable laws and regulations
• Master of Laws (LLM) in relevant field
• A detailed knowledge of DoD report formats and forms