2027 PhD Graduate - Aerothermal Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 105,000 - 245,000; Full time

Job summary

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks an Aerothermal Engineer to lead research, design, analysis, and prototyping for next generation reentry and hypersonic systems. You will contribute to system-level objectives, collaborate across disciplines, and help deliver engineering solutions that advance mission capabilities.

You will perform thermal analyses, develop models, support ground testing, and communicate results to sponsors and partners.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related discipline is required.
• Experience in aerothermal analyses on hypersonic or reentry systems.
• Thermal material response analysis for TPS, including ablation.
• Strong programming skills in MATLAB and general computing.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Willing to travel occasionally to partner sites and tests.
• Eligibility for U.S. government clearance (Secret or higher).

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with cross-discipline teams to design and prototype reentry systems.
• Develop finite element models to evaluate trajectory-based heating and performance.
• Perform TPS characterization, selection, and ablation analyses.
• Support aerothermal ground test design, operations, and data analysis.
• Conduct trade studies on TPS concepts for vehicle designs.
• Develop software tools for aerothermal analyses as needed.
• Produce reports and presentations communicating findings to team and sponsors.

Skills

MATLAB

Communication

Education

Ph.D. in Aerospace/Mechanical Engineering or related

Tools

CART3D

CFD++

Kestrel

Pointwise

ICEM CFD

Linux Bash

Python

Job description

Are you interested in hypersonic and reentry system design and prototyping?

Do you want to make contributions that accelerate the performance and efficacy of next generation hypersonic and reentry systems?

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

We are seeking an aerothermal engineer to help us perform research, development, design, analysis and prototyping of next generation reentry systems, hypersonic vehicles, and their enabling technologies . As a member of our team, you’ll be making critical contributions to the rapid advancement of these next generation systems, ensuring their mission effectiveness. You will be joining a complementary team of engineers who work together to provide impactful solutions to system level objectives and challenges. We are passionate about innovation and our team is committed to providing engaging challenging work and supporting continued learning and development.

As a Reentry System Aerothermal Engineer…

• Collaborate with cross-discipline teams to develop advanced reentry system designs and prototypes.
• Develop and execute component and/or system-level thermal finite element models to evaluate trajectory-based aerodynamic heating and performance.
• Perform Thermal Protection System (TPS) characterization, selection, and analyses of ablative TPS materials.
• Support aerothermal ground test activities, including test design, test operations, and data analysis.
• Conduct trade studies on vehicle TPS design concepts.
• As needed, assist in developing software tools for hypervelocity aerothermal analyses.
• Produce reports and presentations to communicate findings to team members, external organization partners, and government sponsors.

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

• Have a Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related discipline
• Have experience in performing aerothermal analyses on hypersonic or reentry systems.
• Have experience in thermal material response analysis to model thermal protection systems, including ablation.
• Have strong computer experience and programming skills, including MATLAB
• Have strong communication skills, both verbal and written
• Are willing and able to travel occasionally to attend meetings or field tests at other government and contractor sites
• Have initiative and drive to make critical contributions to an important mission
• Can work effectively in multi-disciplinary teams comprised of APL staff, government sponsors, military personnel, and industry partners with varying experience levels and backgrounds
• Are able to obtain a 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...

• Have experience with CART3D, CFD++, Kestrel, or other advanced CFD codes, as well as experience in grid generation using Pointwise, ICEM CFD, or similar software.
• Have experience with heat conduction and ablations solvers such as CHAR
• Have programming skills in Linux Bash (or similar) and/or Python and have experience with High Performance Clusters and batch queuing systems (PBS, Slurm, etc.)
• Have experience or knowledge in design or testing of hypersonics systems
• Have experience with Navy and/or Air Force strategic missiles, reentry systems, or hypersonic vehicles
• Hold an active Secret or higher level 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

$105,000 Annually

Maximum Rate

$245,000 Annually