MTA Training Architect

Applied Research Associates, Inc. (
ARA
) has an opportunity for an experienced Targeting Instructor, located at ARA's Emerald Coast Division in Niceville, Florida or remotely, beginning in January 2026. This position supports development and delivery of Online, CONUS, and OCONUS training of targeting applications and tradecraft leveraging a hybrid learning environment. Applicant must be a United States citizen and be able to obtain and maintain an active Department of Defense (DOD) security clearance. ARA is a 100% employee-owned company that offers an excellent benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, retirement and more.

This position requires a minimum of eight years of experience with Targeting and Fires products (e.g., JMEM Weaponeering Software (JWS) and/or Integrated Munitions Effects Assessment (IMEA)). Experience as a trainer (Goodfellow AFB, Joint Targeting School, Precision Fires Course, Combatant Command Qualification Course, weapons school, weapon/aircraft program offices) and/or equivalent experience in an applicable career field (e.g., Weaponeering, Targeting, Fires) is preferred. Bachelor's Degree or higher is desired but may be substituted with operational experience. Applicant must be willing to travel away from home on business up to, but not limited to, ten working days a month. Travel includes both CONUS and OCONUS locations.

ARA's Benefits Package Includes:

• 401(k) Retirement Plan with employer matching contribution
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan
• Various insurance options including Flexible Spending Plan, Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Paid leave and holidays.

MTA Training Architect Qualifications

• A minimum of 8 years of operational experience within the targeting community.
• Ability to obtain or maintain a Top Secret/SCI DoD security clearance; selected applicant will undergo a security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements at the time of employment.

MTA Training Architect Required Skills

• Considerable knowledge and understanding of both air-to-surface and/or surface-to-surface engagements.
• Familiarity with Joint Publications and CJCSI's having to do with Intelligence, Operations, Plans, and incorporation of effective fires into real world operations.
• Experience using the available application for Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced Target Development (BTD, ITD, & ATD) purposes.
• Comfortable with public speaking and presenting technical information to large audiences consisting of a broad base of knowledge and expertise.
• The ability to tailor information to the appropriate level of understanding.
• Prepare written reports/briefings indicating solutions or range of possible alternatives in rank of desirability and probability of success when there is no single solution, and interface with customers to help define work processes.
• Ability to coordinate operations across multiple organizations meeting dispirit user requirements simultaneously.
• Experience using Microsoft Office/portable document format (PDF) software.

Additional Consideration For

• Experience related to operational weaponeering, weapon systems effectiveness methodologies, target coordinate mensuration, collateral damage estimation, and database maintenance.
• Recent experience as a military training instructor at a service targeting school or other related military course, and completion of an accredited CDE course and a Target Coordinate Mensuration (TCM) certification.

Company Details
Applied Research Associates (ARA) is a recognized leader in the development of cutting-edge research, engineering, and software solutions that are critical to national defense and other problems facing the U.S. ARA is a scientific and engineering company with an excellent national reputation and over a 40-year history of sustained growth. Our culture supports career growth and rewards innovation, self-motivation, and technical excellence. ARA is an employee-owned company with an attractive benefit package that includes 401-K, Employee Stock Ownership, Flexible Spending Plan and various insurance options. Our specialty is finding innovative solutions to complex technical problems. We are seeking talented and motivated individuals who can help us meet our objective of providing quality service to our customers. For additional information and an opportunity to join this unique workplace, please visit our website at

Applicants selected will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.