2027 Graduate - Trajectory Design and Mission Analysis Engineer - System Modeling, Evaluation, and Planning Group

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

Benefits offered by this job

Generous benefits

Retirement contributions

Healthy work-life balance

Job summary

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks a trajectory design and mission analysis engineer to develop models, numerical algorithms, and flight-system evaluation tools for missile systems.

You will model hypersonic dynamics, implement optimization-based software, and document results for sponsors and collaborators; U.S. citizenship and ability to obtain Interim Secret/Top Secret clearance are required.

Qualifications

• Hold a B.S. in an engineering discipline, computational science, applied mathematics, or a related technical field.
• Proficiency with MATLAB or Python.
• Experience with complex mathematical models.
• Ability to obtain Interim Secret and Top Secret clearances; U.S. citizenship required.

Responsibilities

• Model the dynamics of hypersonic vehicles in varying environments.
• Develop software for mission planning and flight system evaluation using advanced numerical optimization methods.
• Design methods for evaluating and testing developed software.
• Document and present work to sponsors and collaborators.
• Interact with sponsors and external representatives to formulate concepts of operation for advanced technologies.

Skills

MATLAB

Python

Mathematical models

Security clearance

Education

B.S. in engineering/computational science/applied math

M.S. preferred

Tools

C++

Job description

Description

Do you want to contribute to the development of complex systems that are critical for strategic deterrence and defense?

Are you interested in developing models, methodologies, and algorithms for translating design characteristics of missile systems into concept evaluation and mission planning software?

Would you enjoy working with a team that takes innovative ideas from proof of concept to flight-ready final products?

If you are graduating with a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Physics, Statistics, Math, or Engineering, we want to hear from you.

The System Modeling, Evaluation, and Planning Group within the Force Projection Sector of the John Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory is seeking a trajectory design and mission analysis engineer to develop models, numerical algorithms, and novel approaches for mission planning and evaluation of missile systems. You will join a multidisciplinary team of engineers, physicists, and mathematicians who are passionate about their role as independent evaluator. We strive to foster an environment of innovation and learning to develop the critical technologies and experts of the future.

As a trajectory design and mission analysis engineer you will…

• Model the dynamics of hypersonic vehicles in varying environments
• Develop software for mission planning and flight system evaluation using advanced numerical optimization methods
• Design methods for evaluating and testing developed software
• Document and present work to sponsors and third-party collaborators
• Interact with sponsors and external representatives to formulate concepts of operation for these novel and advanced technologies

Qualifications

You meet the minimum qualifications for the job if you…

• Hold a B.S. in an engineering discipline, computational science, applied mathematics, or a related technical field
• Are proficient with a high-level programming language, such as MATLAB or Python
• Have demonstrated experience working with complex mathematical models
• Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Top 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…

• Hold a M.S. in an engineering discipline, computational science, applied mathematics, or a related technical field
• Have experience implementing numerical algorithms in C++ (or similar compiled/object-oriented programming language)
• Have a background in nonlinear programming and/or optimal control theory
• Have experience developing 3-DoF and/or 6-DoF flight simulations
• Hold an active Top Secret security clearance or higher

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