2026 PhD Graduate - Applied Algorithms Engineer

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory; Huntsville (AL); On-site; USD 105,000 - 245,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Education assistance

Retirement benefits

Work-life balance

Job summary

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory seeks PhD graduates to join a team focused on rapid capability advancements for defense systems. You will apply math, engineering, computer science, and physics to develop distributed algorithms and AI/ML techniques for missile defense applications.

You will locate at the Huntsville, AL site and collaborate with teams in Laurel, MD, conducting R&D, modeling, and simulations to translate results into actionable insights for sponsors.

Qualifications

• PhD in Math, Computer Science, Physics, Electrical Engineering or related field.
• Detail-oriented with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Familiarity with probabilistic algorithms and numerical methods.
• Programming experience with MATLAB, C++, Python, or other high-level languages.
• Self-motivated to dig into data and understand system performance.
• Ability to work independently and within a larger team; collaboration skills.
• Eligible to obtain Interim Top Secret clearance by start date and ultimately Top Secret clearance.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research and development related to U.S. Missile Defense systems.
• Develop, test, and analyze new concepts for sensing, engagement, and fire control.
• Implement algorithms and design modeling and simulation components of systems.
• Develop AI/ML-based concepts and technical solutions to challenging problems.
• Apply data fusion and tracking concepts for object tracking and discrimination.
• Analyze simulation outputs and translate results into clear insights for sponsors.
• Deliver presentations to technical staff, program leadership, and government sponsors.
• Develop prototype capabilities and collaborate with partner organizations to transition ideas to fielded systems.

Skills

AI/ML concepts

Data analysis

Team collaboration

Security clearance readiness

Education

PhD in Math/CS/Physics/EE

Tools

MATLAB

C++

Python

Job description

Description

Do you love developing creative solutions to challenging problems?

Are you passionate about using innovation and advanced technologies to solve to some of our country's critical challenges?

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

We are seeking innovative and highly talented PhD Graduate candidates to join our group, which specializes in advanced research and program of record activities for rapid capability advancements. In particular, you will conduct systems analysis, identify gaps, and develop novel concepts to revolutionize defensive capabilities for the U.S.A. You will apply math, engineering, computer science, and physics knowledge to implement new distributed algorithms, advanced Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning (AI/ML) techniques, object tracking and discrimination, data fusion concepts, etc. in support of a wide variety of defense systems. You will be joining a hardworking team of engineers and scientists who are passionate about developing high-impact solutions at the forefront of APL's mission to provide innovative solutions to critical challenges in the area of missile defense.

As a member of our team...

• You will be located at the Sponsor site in Huntsville, AL with reach back to the technical team in Laurel, MD
• You will conduct research and development activities related to U.S. Missile Defense systems.
• You will assist in the development, testing, and analysis of new concepts related to sensing, engagement, and fire control.
• You will implement algorithms and design modeling and simulation components of systems.
• You will develop AI/ML-based concepts and technical solutions to solve challenging problems.
• You will apply novel data fusion and tracking concepts for object tracking and discrimination applications.
• You will analyze simulation outputs and translate results into clear insights for the research sponsor.
• You will deliver presentations to technical staff, program leadership, and government sponsors.
• You will develop prototype capabilities and work with partner organizations to transition ideas to fielded systems.

Qualifications

You meet the minimum requirements for the job if you...

• Possess or will soon be a PhD in Math, Computer Science, Physics, Electrical Engineering or a related field.
• Are detail-oriented with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Have familiarity with probabilistic algorithms and numerical methods
• Have programming experience with MATLAB, C++, Python, or other high-level programming languages.
• Are highly self-motivated to dig into data to root cause issues and to understand system performance.
• Have the ability to work both independently and as part of a larger team, as well as effective collaboration skills with other teams and contractors.
• Are able to obtain an Interim Top Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain Top Secret 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...

• Have knowledge, experience and interest in working with AI/ML technologies and MLOps practices.
• Have domain knowledge of Navy, Missile Defense Agency, Space Force, or Air Force systems.

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 athttps://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

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 [e-mail].

The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

Minimum Rate

$105,000 Annually

Maximum Rate

$245,000 Annually