2027 Graduate - Autonomous Systems Computer Engineer

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

Job summary

Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) in the Baltimore-Washington metro area seeks an Autonomous Systems Computer Engineer to develop ruggedized sensor systems from concept through fielding and to integrate embedded firmware and software across diverse hardware platforms.

The role emphasizes hands-on testing, modeling and simulation to verify design requirements, and rapid selection of commercial and custom parts.

Qualifications

• B.S. in Electrical/Computer Engineering or Computer Science required.
• Experience in embedded systems, autonomous vehicles, or related tech.
• Experience from concept to prototype and testing.
• Ability to multi-task across projects and work in small teams with quick turnaround.
• Willingness to work in classified labs and travel ~15% for field testing; U.S. citizenship.
• Ability to obtain Interim Secret, then Secret clearance.

Responsibilities

• Develop ruggedized sensor systems from concept through fielding.
• Develop and integrate embedded firmware and software for varied hardware platforms.
• Conduct laboratory and field testing to verify requirements.
• Analyze performance with modeling and simulation to support design.
• Specify and integrate parts for rapid development of systems.
• Document and present designs, analyses and test results to teams and sponsors.

Skills

Embedded systems

Autonomous vehicles

System design

Rapid prototyping

Multi-tasking

Education

B.S. in Electrical or Computer Engineering or Computer Science

M.S. degree preferred

Job description

Description Are you a hands-on engineer that enjoys rapidly developing and fielding groundbreaking solutions for unattended sensors and systems?

Description Are you a hands-on engineer that enjoys rapidly developing and fielding groundbreaking solutions for unattended sensors and systems?
In the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory's (APL) Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Group, we use applied engineering to field tomorrow's groundbreaking solutions for a varied set of government organizations. Dedicated, enthusiastic, and self-driven multidisciplinary staff work side-by-side in the lab and in the field to build solutions to critically important challenges. The people who work here embrace challenges, adapt to dynamic changing environments, and are continually looking to advance their technical and leadership skills. We employ the groundbreaking research done at APL to field mission ready systems. Are you interested in being a member of our group? Join us at APL, a national leader in scientific research and development, and an employer that prioritizes innovation, impact, and personal development!

As an Autonomous Systems Computer Engineer you will

• Work in engineering teams to develop ruggedized custom sensor systems from concept definition through fielding
• Develop and integrate embedded firmware and software for a variety of hardware platforms to interface with hardware, fuse sensor data, control system behaviors, and implement algorithms and autonomy.
• Conduct laboratory and field testing to verify requirements are met
• Analyze performance of systems through modeling and simulation in support of design
• Specify, identify, and integrate commercial, government and custom parts for the rapid development of systems
• Document and present detailed designs, analyses and test results to team members, leadership and sponsors

Qualifications

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

• Have a B.S. degree in Electrical or Computer Engineering or Computer Science
• Have relevant experience in the design of embedded systems, autonomous vehicles, or related technologies
• Have experience in concept generation, analysis, design, prototyping and testing
• Have demonstrated an ability and willingness to multi-task across several projects and work independently in small teams while meeting quick turnaround demands
• Are willing to work in classified laboratories and can travel to conduct field testing (approximately 15% of your time)
• Interact effectively with team members of different experience levels and backgrounds, including leadership of teams and projects
• Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a 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 a M.S. degree in Electrical or Computer Engineering or Computer Science
• Have demonstrated technical leadership skills
• Possess an active DoD Secret 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 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].

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Minimum Rate $85,000 Annually
Maximum Rate $165,000 Annually