2026 Graduate - Cyber Engineer - Capabilities Development

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 85,000 - 165,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous benefits including education assistance

Vibrant workplace culture

Healthy work/life balance

Job summary

A prominent research institution located in Laurel, MD, is seeking a cybersecurity professional to develop innovative capabilities and solutions. Candidates will work with defense and intelligence organizations to address significant cybersecurity challenges. A Bachelor's or Master's in a relevant field is required, along with programming experience in various languages. Competitive salary ranges from $85,000 to $165,000 annually, along with generous benefits including education assistance and work/life balance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science or related field required.
• Experience in software development using one or more programming languages.
• Strong analytical skills and ability to work in teams.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with defense or intelligence organizations to identify operational needs.
• Develop solutions to cybersecurity challenges in operational environments.
• Learn from experts in building cyber capabilities.

Skills

Java/Kotlin

Python

C#

Rust

Go

JavaScript/TypeScript

C/C++

Analytical Skills

Problem-Solving Skills

Teamwork

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Mathematics, or a Cybersecurity-related field

Tools

DevSecOps

Network Security

Job description

Overview

Are you passionate about learning how things work and making them better? Do you want the chance to push the boundaries of cyber defense? Are you excited about working with others to solve some of the nation's toughest cyber challenges? If so, we want you to join our team at APL's Capabilities Development Group (QCC)! We work as a multi‑disciplinary team of systems, cybersecurity, and software engineers who enable mission resilience by developing novel tools. We leverage the latest threat intelligence along with cutting‑edge cybersecurity trends, techniques, and technologies to achieve an operational advantage for our sponsors.

Responsibilities

• Be mentored by top experts to learn the art and science of developing cyber capabilities
• Work with sponsors and end users in defense or intelligence organizations to understand their operational needs and identify requirements
• Build mission‑aligned capabilities
• Develop novel approaches to solving cybersecurity challenges in operational environments
• Explore promising new research areas and seek ways to apply ideas to today’s problems
• Share approaches and methods with other team members, APL management, and government decision makers

Qualifications

You meet our minimum qualifications if you...

• Are graduating with a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Mathematics or a Cybersecurity-related field
• Have previous internship, research, or personal project experience developing software using Java/Kotlin, Python, C#, Rust, Go, JavaScript/TypeScript, C/C++, or equivalent
• Have previous internship, research, or personal project experience developing concepts, systems, or analytics, with an understanding of systems engineering or operational planning
• Have strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, excellent interpersonal and communication skills, good organizational skills, and the ability to work in teams
• Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Top Secret Clearance. If selected, you will be subjected to a government security investigation, and you should meet the eligibility requirements for access to classified information up to the Top Secret level. Eligibility requirements include US citizenship

Desired Additional Qualifications

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

• Can apply software development skills to different domains and subject matters
• Have knowledge of AI/ML, Agentic AI, and/or AI-enabled cyber methodologies
• Have experience in DevSecOps, and/or network security and systems integration
• Have experience with Department of Defense and/or Intelligence Community cyber operations/mission forces
• Have experience in conducting research, development, and testing of cyber capabilities
• Have experience in the development of related documents that define processes, solutions, requirements, and specifications for government agencies (military, federal departments/agencies, state, and local) and public organizations to collaborate and achieve greater cybersecurity
• Hold an active Secret or Top Secret security clearance and can ultimately obtain TS/SCI level clearance.

About Us

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. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore‑Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities athttp://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

EEO & Accommodations

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact [e-mail].

Compensation

Minimum Rate: $85,000 Annually

Maximum Rate: $165,000 Annually

How to Apply

We are now directing you to the original job posting. Please apply directly for this job at the employer’s website.