2027 Graduate – Signal Processing/Communications 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 graduates to contribute to distributed air and missile defense systems through algorithm development, modeling and analysis. You will work on sensor data processing, multi-sensor data fusion, and networked systems across sensors, networks, combat systems and weapons to develop innovative defense solutions.

Join a team that uses math, engineering, physics and software to model and optimize current and prototype defense concepts, with

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, or a related field.
• Theoretical knowledge in probability, statistics, linear algebra, algorithm design, signal processing, time-frequency analysis, communications theory, electromagnetic theory, and machine learning.

Responsibilities

• Develop distributed air and missile defense systems and algorithms.
• Model, analyze, and study performance of current systems; propose improvements.
• Provide status updates and results in reports and presentations.
• Grow and advance within the group.

Skills

probability theory

statistics

linear algebra

algorithm design

signal processing

time-frequency analysis

communications theory

electromagnetic theory

machine learning

MATLAB

Python

C/C++

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Master's degree in Electrical Engineering/Mathematics/Physics

Tools

MATLAB

Python

C/C++

Job description

Description

Are you looking for exciting opportunities to help determine how to best defend the United States, our armed forces, and our allies from all forms of air and missile threats?

We are seeking talented graduates to join our Networked Systems and Integrated Fires Group to conduct algorithm development, modeling and analysis for air and missile defense. You would become a part of the team that works on a wide range of exciting technical challenges involving sensor data processing, target tracking, multi-sensor data fusion, communications and networking, and system-of-systems design that encompasses sensors, networks, combat systems and weapons, all with the goal of developing groundbreaking solutions for distributed warfare theatres.

You will use math, engineering, physics and software skills to model, analyze and improve existing and prototype new air and missile defense systems and concepts. As you do so, you will broaden and deepen your technical knowledge and make contributions to important national security missions.

As a member of our team...

• Your primary responsibility will be contributing to the development of distributed air and missile defense systems
• You will model, analyze, and study performance of current systems, identify opportunities for improvements, and propose and develop new algorithms and concepts
• You will provide status updates, analysis results and algorithms in written reports and in presentations
• You will be a part of a group with many possibilities for growth and advancement

Qualifications

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

• Have a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, or a related field
• Have a theoretical knowledge and coursework in some of the following: probability theory, statistics, linear algebra, algorithm design, signal processing, time-frequency analysis, communications theory, electromagnetic theory, machine learning
• Have experience using MATLAB, Python, and/or C/C++ for algorithm development, modeling and simulation
• Have proficient analytical skills
• Can effectively communicate ideas and results
• Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain 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 practical experience working with sensors and signals
• Have a theoretical background in some of the following: adaptive signal processing, detection and estimation theory, information theory, wireless communications, data fusion, optimization theory
• Have an active Secret security 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