Program Intern - Summer 2026

Overview

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 Undersea Analysis Portfolio, within SPA's Sea, Land, & Air Analysis Group, conducts rigorous and objective analyses to enable the Navy and other DoD organizations to make decisions, plans, and strategies to deliver emerging undersea technologies and warfighting capabilities. We support clients across the undersea and naval special warfare enterprises, including those within resourcing and requirements (OPNAV N97), acquisition (program offices for undersea technologies and naval special warfare), and science and technology (Office of Naval Research, DARPA) Our enduring capabilities include:

• Identifying capability gaps, developing requirements, and generating solutions
• Assessing the operational utility and technical feasibility of new technologies
• Execution of acquisition and technology development programs, including developing plans and roadmaps to mature, deliver, and sustain new technologies
• Analysis of vulnerabilities and threats to undersea platforms and systems
• Quantitative analysis and modeling of undersea forces and their missions

SPA has an immediate or near term need for a qualified intern candidate to support its Undersea Technology Analysis Portfolio.

Responsibilities

This internship will support policy and strategy analysis on various national security topics related to Undersea Warfare (USW) in support of a range of Navy clients. The candidate will utilize research, analysis, and other approaches to provide our clients with timely and objective information to enable decision-making regarding future USW force capabilities and evolving operational concepts.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications:

• The applicant should be currently pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in national security studies, political science, international affairs, public policy, military history, or another relevant field.
• The applicant should have an interest in undersea warfare and analysis of national security issues, and a demonstrated understanding of security topics through coursework or experience.
• The applicant should have demonstrated and strong skill sets in research, writing, critical thinking, and analysis.
• Applicants must be US citizens and be able to meet eligibility requirements to receive and maintain a DoD SECRET-level security clearance.