Principal Solutions Architect - AI Systems

SPA is seeking a Principal Solutions Architect - AI Systems to lead the architecture of an AI-enabled decision-support system integrated into an existing operational environment. This role owns how AI reasoning, deterministic logic, data, and human decision authority work together in a production system where trust, auditability, and mission impact matter. This is not a data science or model-development role. It is a systems architecture role that requires deep AI systems literacy.

Key responsibilities include but are not limited to the following: Own end-to-end architecture for an AI-augmented operational system. Define how AI inference is bounded by constraints, validated, and surfaced for human decision-making. Design agent-based and workflow-driven architectures that combine probabilistic and deterministic reasoning. Lead integration into existing platforms using API-first, zero-trust, container-native patterns. Establish architectural patterns for traceability, auditability, and responsible AI. Serve as the senior technical authority across delivery increments

This is a remote/hybrid position. You will be expected to work on-site at least 2 days per work in either Colorado Springs, CO or El Segundo, CA due to the fast pace, quick-turn nature of the job and the persistent need to access secure networks. Thus, residing in comfortable driving distance of either Colorado Springs, CO or El Segundo, CA should be considered.

• US Citizen and current active DoD Secret clearance

• Minimum 8 years of experience designing complex distributed systems

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or related field

• Possession of at least one of the following certifications:

• Azure Solutions Architect Expert (AZ-305)

• Azure DevOps Engineer Expert (AZ-400)

• Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA) or equivalent

Demonstrated experience architecting production AI-enabled systems

Experience integrating AI into existing enterprise or mission platforms

Strong understanding of AI failure modes, uncertainty, and validation at the system level

Experience designing systems with human-in-the-loop authority

Deep proficiency with the following tools & technologies:

• Distributed systems, APIs, containers (Docker/Kubernetes)
• Cloud platforms (AWS/Azure/GCP)
• AI integration patterns (model APIs, orchestration layers, tool-calling)
• Observability and system monitoring

At SPA, we strive to deliver a robust total compensation package that will attract and retain top talent. Elements of the compensation package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.

SPA provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work. The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, etc.

Please note that the salary information shown below is a general guideline only. Salaries are commensurate with experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations. Pay Transparency Range: 175k - 255k.

SPA is committed to the principles and practices of equal employment opportunity (EEO) and Affirmative Action. It is, and will continue to be, the policy of the company to afford equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals. We recruit, hire, train and promote persons in all job titles without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, SPA complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities.

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 Space and Intelligence Division provides professional services to the US Space Force, Combatant Commands, Intelligence Community, and NASA. Our work includes enterprise architectural assessments, systems engineering and integration, test, planning and execution, cost estimating and analysis, acquisition support, and cybersecurity. We are trusted partners developing approaches and concepts to meet emerging high priority needs, assessing cutting-edge technologies, and supporting capabilities for our National Defense. Come join the fastest growing Division at Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc.! The Space Systems Group (SSG), part of SPA's Space and Intelligence Division, provides timely and objective assessments and recommendations integrating technical, operational, programmatic, policy and business analysis. We focus on our key clients in the Space community including the US Space Force's Space Systems Command (USSF/SSC), one of the three designated Field Commands under USSF. We work tirelessly to provide integrated solutions based on information and communications throughout the chain of command. We provide clear and consistent analysis and recommendations which are aligned to strategic and leadership goals while balancing the ability to execute on time and on budget within the technical communities. Come join an organization responsible for being a key enabler of Spacepower! SPA has a near-term need for a Principal Solutions Architect - AI Systems.