2027 Graduate - Autonomous Systems Mechanical Engineer

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

Job summary

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks an Autonomous Systems Mechanical Engineer to contribute to rapid development and fielding of rugged sensor systems for challenging environments. You will work in teams from concept through fielding, applying mechanical design, prototyping, and test execution.

You should have a ME degree and experience with embedded systems or autonomous vehicles, be comfortable with travel, and pursue security clearances.

Qualifications

• BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering is required.
• Experience in embedded systems, autonomous vehicles, or defense tech.
• Experience with concept generation, design, prototyping and testing.
• Ability to multi-task across projects and work independently in small teams.
• Willingness to travel ~15% and work in classified environments.
• Ability to interact with team leadership and vendors of COTS equipment.
• Must be eligible for Interim Secret clearance and U.S. citizenship.

Responsibilities

• Develop ruggedized sensor systems from concept to fielding.
• Analyze system performance through modeling and simulation.
• Conduct lab and field testing to verify requirements.
• Specify and integrate commercial, government, and custom parts.
• Document designs, analyses, and test results for stakeholders.

Skills

Embedded systems design

Autonomous systems

Prototype & testing

Team collaboration

Security clearance readiness

COTS vendor interaction

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering

Job 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!

We are seeking Mechanical Design Engineers to apply technical expertise with a broad range of skills to contribute to the rapid development and fielding of autonomous sensor solutions in some of the most challenging environments around the globe to help our sponsors complete their mission!

As an Autonomous Systems Mechanical Engineer you will...

• Work in engineering teams to develop ruggedized custom sensor systems from concept definition through fielding
• Analyze performance of systems through modeling and simulation in support of design
• Conduct laboratory and field testing to verify requirements are met
• 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. or M.S. degree in Mechanical Engineering
• Have relevant experience in the design of embedded systems or autonomous vehicles or related defense technology
• 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
• Work with vendors of COTS equipment to meet demanding delivery schedules
• 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 applied knowledge of advanced prototyping and production techniques in your field
• Have demonstrated technical or project management leadership
• 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].

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

$85,000 Annually

Maximum Rate

$165,000 Annually