Technical SME / Innovation Lead - DHS Public Trust Preferred

This position is contingent upon contract award. 

The Company 

At ICF, we are driven by the opportunity to solve complex challenges that matter. Our teams combine expertise in science, technology, analytics, and program management to help government clients tackle critical national priorities. We are fearless in exploring new ideas, relentless in delivering results for our clients, and committed to making a meaningful impact. Our multidisciplinary teams collaborate to develop innovative solutions that strengthen communities, improve government operations, and enhance national security. 

We are seeking a Technical SME / Innovation Lead to support the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Science & Technology Directorate (S&T). This role offers the chance to work at the intersection of innovation, science, and national security. DHS S&T leads the development and evaluation of emerging technologies that strengthen the nation’s ability to respond to evolving threats. As a Technical SME / Innovation Lead, you will provide subject matter expertise to support programs that help move these technologies from research to operational use across the Department of Homeland Security. 

The Role 

You will join a multidisciplinary team of scientists, engineers, analysts, and program professionals supporting DHS S&T research and innovation portfolios. These programs span areas such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and machine learning, data science, biometrics, modeling and simulation, and other emerging technologies. 

As a Technical SME / Innovation Lead, you will provide technical expertise and strategic guidance across DHS S&T programs. You will work closely with government program managers, technical experts, and research teams to evaluate emerging technologies, support technical assessments, and help guide innovation initiatives that advance homeland security mission priorities. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Provide subject matter expertise supporting scientific and technical initiatives within DHS S&T’s RDT&E portfolio 

• Conduct technical assessments and analysis of emerging technologies relevant to DHS mission needs 

• Support evaluation, testing, and transition of innovative technologies across DHS programs 

• Provide technical guidance to program managers and project teams on research initiatives and emerging capabilities 

• Support development of technical briefings, reports, and recommendations for government stakeholders 

• Participate in technical reviews, workshops, and program discussions across DHS S&T research programs 

• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to assess technical risks, opportunities, and implementation approaches 

• Assist with identifying technology trends and innovation opportunities that support DHS operational priorities 

Basic Qualifications 

• 8+ years of experience providing technical expertise related to emerging technologies or scientific research programs 

• 8+ years of experience supporting technical analysis, research initiatives, or technology evaluation activities 

• Ability to obtain and maintain a DHS Public Trust clearance 

• US Citizenship is required (required by the federal government for this position). 

Preferred Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, computer science, data science, physics, cybersecurity, or a related technical field 

• Advanced degree in science, engineering, technology, or a related field 

• Experience supporting federal programs, preferably in technology, research, or innovation environments 

• Experience supporting DHS, DoD, or federal R&D organizations 

• Familiarity with research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) programs 

• Expertise in emerging technology areas such as AI/ML, cybersecurity, biometrics, data analytics, or modeling and simulation 

• Experience supporting technology innovation programs or government research initiatives 

Professional Skills 

• Strong analytical, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills 

Job Location 

This position supports a DHS client in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area and may be performed remotely, in a hybrid capacity, or onsite depending on client and contract requirements. Candidates should be located in or willing to relocate to the DMV area and able to attend onsite meetings at DHS facilities in the Washington, D.C. region as needed. 

This position must be performed within the United States. If you accept this position, you should note that ICF monitors employee work locations, blocks access from foreign locations or foreign IP addresses, and prohibits personal VPN connections. 

At ICF, we are committed to ensuring a fair interview process for all candidates based on their own skills and knowledge. As part of this commitment, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools to generate or assist with responses during interviews (whether in-person or virtual) is not permitted. This policy is in place to maintain the integrity and authenticity of the interview process.  

However, we understand that some candidates may require accommodation that involves the use of AI. If such an accommodation is needed, candidates are instructed to contact us in advance at candidateaccommodation@icf.com. We are dedicated to providing the necessary support to ensure that all candidates have an equal opportunity to succeed.