Missile Defense Systems Engineer and Analyst
Laurel, MD

Job Description

Do you love to tinker with systems and algorithms?

Are you passionate about data analysis?

Do you like contributing to groundbreaking innovations for missile defense applications?

If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.

The mission of Ground-based Midcourse Defense (GMD) is to defend the United States against ballistic missile threats. Successfully accomplishing this depends on intricately coordinating and integrating sensors, battle management, communications, and weapons. As a member of our growing team you will implement and assess proposed algorithms in a simulation framework to help inform which potential future GMD capabilities to pursue.

As a Missile Defense Systems Engineer and Analyst you will:

* Propose novel concepts and algorithms that enhance the capability of the system as a whole
*
* Execute data analysis and trade studies to demonstrate feasibility and quantify performance improvements
*
* Develop analysis tools to support trade and feasibility studies
*
* Support task planning activities by creating proposal charts and building study plans

You will succeed on the team if you:

* Are naturally inquisitive and willing to question how things work
* Possess a strong desire to learn and an ability for self-guided education
* Have an excellent work ethic and are dedicated to achieving the team's objectives
* Are personable, considerate, and courteous in their interactions with fellow team members

We are passionate about applying state-of-the-art know-how to challenging problems and are committed to delivering quality products to our sponsors. Our team strives to foster a creative, friendly, collegial environment that values inclusion, camaraderie, and hard work while maintaining a sense of humor. You will join a diverse group of 40 hardworking engineers and scientists that organizes many opportunities to socialize over coffee breaks, happy hours, potlucks, and holiday gatherings.

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...

* Possess a BS in mathematics, engineering, computer science, physics, or a related field
* Have 2 years of experience in a technical position working on simulation, software development, and/or data analysis
* Are skilled in using a programming language such as MATLAB, C/C , Java, or Python
* Are comfortable and effective in communicating with peers about highly technical topics
* Are willing and able to [special working conditions like travel, schedule, lifting/walking]
* Are able to obtain Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain TS/SCI level clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...

* Possess a MS or PhD in mathematics, engineering, computer science, physics, or a related field
* Have 5 years of experience in a technical position, with experience leading a small simulation, software development and/or data analysis task
* Knowledge and application of machine learning and/or statistical analysis techniques
* MATLAB programming expertise
* Experience with the Missile Defense Agency specifically GMD
* Demonstrated ability to effectively communicate to government sponsors at all levels
* Possess an active TS/SCI clearance

Why work at APL?

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. With a wide selection of challenging, impactful work and a robust education assistance program, APL promotes a culture of life-long learning. Our employees enjoy generous benefits and healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

APL is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability status, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.