Special Operations Planner - J3

Company Overview

We are a world-class team of professionals who deliver next generation technology and products in robotic and autonomous platforms, ground, soldier, and maritime systems in 50+ locations world-wide. Much of our work contributes to innovative research in the fields of sensor science, signal processing, data fusion, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and augmented reality (AR).

QinetiQ US’s dedicated experts in defense, aerospace, security, and related fields all work together to explore new ways of protecting the American Warfighter, Security Forces, and Allies. Being a part of QinetiQ US means being central to the safety and security of the world around us. Partnering with our customers, we help save lives; reduce risks to society; and maintain the global infrastructure on which we all depend.

Why Join QinetiQ US?

If you have the courage to take on a wide variety of complex challenges, then you will experience a unique working environment where innovative teams blend different perspectives, disciplines, and technologies to discover new ways of solving complex problems.  In our diverse and inclusive environment, you can be authentic, feel valued, be respected, and realize your full potential. QinetiQ US will support you with workplace flexibility, a commitment to the health and well-being of you and your family and provide opportunities to work with a purpose. We are committed to supporting your success in both your professional and personal lives.

Position Overview

Join us in supporting the United States Space Command (USSPACECOM), one of the nation’s eleven unified combatant commands responsible for space operations critical to joint warfighting. We are seeking an experienced J3 Operations Integrator to serve as an embedded contractor supporting the USSPACECOM headquarters in Colorado Springs, CO. The ideal candidate is a former senior SOF or Cyber operator with direct J3 experience at a Combatant Command, TSOC, or USCYBERCOM, and a demonstrated ability to navigate complex cross-command coordination and approval processes.

Responsibilities

• Support current and future operations planning (CUOPs/FUOPs) involving SOF and Cyber effects, including CONOP development, staffing, and coordination through USSPACECOM directorates and external partners
• Coordinate with Geographic Combatant Commands (GCCs), Theater Special Operations Commands (TSOCs), interagency partners, and foreign SOF elements to synchronize cross-COCOM operational activities
• Integrate and deconflict multi-domain options, managing operational timing and tempo where SOF and Cyber capabilities are employed alongside space-enabled effects
• Facilitate sensitive activities within USSPACECOM authorities, ensuring classification management (TS/SCI, SAP, ACCM) and operational security across all planning products
• Develop and present decision-ready products, including briefings, staff packages, CONOP summaries, and risk assessments, for senior and flag-level leadership on short-suspense timelines
• Support real-world operations and exercises as the embedded SOF and Cyber representative, contributing to scenario design, MSEL development, and observer/trainer roles
• Where required, provide expertise in SOF hardware integration, coordinating across operational, engineering, and programmatic stakeholders to address space-enabled capability requirements
• Maintain situational awareness of SOF and Cyber equities across the command and adapt planning products as the operational environment evolves
• Operate across classified collaboration environments (SIPRNet, JWICS) and planning tools to manage and disseminate compartmented materials

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline (strategic studies, political science, operations research, national security affairs, or related field)
• 10+ years of operational experience, with a significant portion in J3 or equivalent operations billets at a Combatant Command, TSOC, or USCYBERCOM
• Prior experience as a senior SOF or Cyber operator with direct knowledge of how USSOCOM and USCYBERCOM approach plan development, resourcing, or coordination
• Demonstrated ability to integrate and deconflict multi-domain operations, including space-enabled SOF and Cyber effects, within a joint operational planning framework
• Experience managing sensitive activities and compartmented programs (TS/SCI, SAP, ACCM) with strict adherence to OPSEC requirements
• Strong written and oral communication skills with a track record of producing high-quality briefings, orders, and staff packages under high-pressure, short-suspense conditions
• Proficiency with SIPRNet, JWICS, and other classified planning and collaboration tools
• Active Top Secret/SCI clearance required; #qinetiqclearedjob

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in strategic studies, national security affairs, space policy, or a related field
• Prior direct experience supporting USSPACECOM or another Combatant Command headquarters
• Familiarity with space operations doctrine, including JP 3-14 (Space Operations) and JP 3-05 (Special Operations)
• Background in cross-COCOM coordination involving both functional commands (USSOCOM, USCYBERCOM) and geographic combatant commands
• Experience with space domain awareness, satellite communications, missile warning, or space control missions as they relate to SOF and Cyber employment
• Completion of formal STO Planner training (e.g., USASTOPC) and/or direct experience integrating Special Technical Operations into operational plans
• Prior military service in a J3 billet at the CCMD or TSOC level, or as a senior Cyber Warfare Officer with joint operational experience

Pay Transparency

The salary range for this role is $130,000 - $180,000 USD. The salary range provided is a good faith estimate representative of all experience levels. QinetiQ US considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role, function and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, location, education/training, and key skills.

Company EEO Statement

Accessibility/Accommodation:

If because of a medical condition or disability you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to [email protected] or call (540) 658-2720 Opt. 1 and let us know the nature of your request and contact information.

QinetiQ US is an Equal Opportunity employer. All Qualified Applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status.