2026 PhD Graduate - Next Gen RF Signal Processing/Sensing

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

Benefits offered by this job

Education assistance

Robust retirement contributions

Healthy work-life balance

Job summary

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, MD, seeks a PhD-level sensor and signal processing engineer to develop algorithms and assess RF sensor system performance for land, air, and sea-launched interceptors. You will influence advanced sensor algorithms and collaborate with sponsors and contractors on vital missile defense challenges.

You will travel up to 15% of the time, derive requirements, run trade studies, and create high-fidelity simulations.

Qualifications

• PhD in electrical engineering, applied math, physics, CS, or related field.
• Research experience in simulating or analyzing RF signals, environments or sensors.
• Proficiency in MATLAB, C++, or Python.

Responsibilities

• Derive requirements, perform trade studies, and analyze the performance of advanced sensor systems.
• Develop, implement, test and verify high-fidelity simulations of sensors and environments.
• Collaborate with sponsors and contractors on missile defense sensor projects.

Skills

Written and oral communication

Team collaboration

Active learner

Willingness to travel 15%

US citizenship for clearance

Education

PhD in electrical engineering, applied math, physics or CS

Tools

MATLAB

C++

Python

Job description

Description

Do you love solving crucial, real-world problems related to sensor systems? Are you a curious and active learner who just want to know why? If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team!

We are seeking a PhD physicist, mathematician or engineer to help us develop algorithms and assess the performance of the next generation of radio frequency sensor systems for land, air, and sea-launched interceptors. You'll influence the development of powerful sensor algorithms. Dedicated teams have opportunities to tackle vital missile defense challenges. We strive to cultivate an environment of creativity and collaboration and value finding sophisticated solutions to hard problems.

As a sensor and signal processing engineer...

• Your primary responsibility will be to derive requirements, perform trade studies, and analyze the performance of advanced sensor systems.
• You will develop, implement, test and verify high-fidelity, physics-based simulations of sensors and environments.
• You will act as APL's representative with sponsors and contractors and will collaborate with multidisciplined teams to solve difficult problems in air and missile defense

Qualifications

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

• Possess a PhD in electrical engineering, applied math, physics, computer science, or a related field.
• Are knowledgeable or have research in one or more of the following: simulating or analyzing radio frequency electromagnetic signals, environments or sensors
• Are proficient in one or more of the following programming languages: MATLAB, C++, or Python.
• Have practiced written and oral presentation skills
• Have the willingness to travel up to 15% of the time as needed.
• Are able to obtain a Secret clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain clearance beyond Top Secret. 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 experience with radar or missile 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 at https://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 contact [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