2026 PhD Graduate Software Engineering/ML/Data Scientist - Intelligence Systems

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 102,500 - 227,500; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Education assistance

Unparalleled retirement contributions

Healthy work/life balance

Job summary

A leading research laboratory in Laurel, MD is seeking recent PhD graduates to address complex engineering and analytical challenges in national defense and security. Candidates will collaborate in areas such as machine perception and data science. Applicants must possess a PhD and be eligible for security clearance, with compensation ranging from $102,500 to $227,500 annually.

Qualifications

• Possess a PhD in Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering, or related technical field.
• Must be able to obtain an Interim Secret clearance by your start date.

Responsibilities

• Work with dedicated team members to support national priorities.
• Apply your skills to projects in areas such as Machine Perception and Data Science.

Skills

Machine Perception

Intelligent Systems

Reasoning for Autonomy

Software Engineering

ML Operations

Data Science

Education

PhD in Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering, or related field

Job description

Overview

Are you searching for a place to build upon the foundation of your academic work?

Are you searching for engaging work with an employer that prioritizes impact, innovation, and personal development?

Are you looking for meaningful work in a driven intellectual environment?

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

We are seeking recent PhD graduates to help us tackle the complex research, engineering, and analytical problems that present critical challenges to our nation. Our group is currently making critical contributions in, developing the first truly autonomous UAV, advancing research in computer vision and reasoning systems. We apply artificial intelligence (AI), reasoning, machine learning (ML) operations, data science, systems engineering, and more to solve urgent tactical problems. We support sponsors in defense, homeland security, and health care, conducting research to address critical challenges.

Responsibilities

• Work with dedicated team members charged with developing and delivering solutions that support national priorities
• Work within a team environment and apply your skills to projects and tasks in areas such as Machine Perception, Intelligent Systems, Reasoning for Autonomy, Software Engineering, ML Operations, and Data Science

Qualifications

• Possess a PhD in Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering, or related technical field
• Are able to obtain an Interim Secret clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Top Secret level security clearance. If selected, a government security clearance investigation will need to be conducted and the requirements met for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

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 http://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
$102,500 Annually

Maximum Rate
$227,500 Annually