2027 PhD Graduate - Radio Systems Scientist

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

Job summary

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) in Laurel, MD is seeking a Radio Systems Scientist to test, evaluate, and integrate RF systems for next-generation missile defense. You will work across HiL facilities and field tests, developing RF data processing algorithms and RF system models while collaborating with engineers across APL and external partners.

The role requires a PhD in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Computer Engineering, or Systems Engineering (or near

Qualifications

• PhD in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Computer Engineering, or Systems Engineering or related field.
• Experience designing and performing RF experiments with data visualization.
• Deep knowledge in wireless communications, GPS, radar/remotely sensed RF systems, high-performance or GPU computing, or embedded DSP.

Responsibilities

• Integrate, test, and evaluate RF technologies in HiL facilities and field tests.
• Develop algorithms to process and visualize RF data.
• Create modeling tools to predict RF system performance in real-world environments.
• Recommend improvements through prototyping and experiments.
• Characterize system performance using anechoic chambers and testbeds.
• Collaborate with engineers across APL and external partners.

Skills

RF testing

Experiment design

Data visualization

Embedded DSP

Communication skills

Security clearance

Education

PhD in Electrical Engineering

PhD in Physics

Tools

Spectrum analyzers

Signal generators

Oscilloscopes

RF recorders

Job description

Are you passionate about integrating, testing, analyzing, and validating RF hardware through laboratory and field-testing activities?

Our interdisciplinary team helps ensure the success of missiles and other kinetic weapon systems through our expertise in RF hardware including wireless datalinks, GPS receivers, and radars.

If you are graduating with a PhD in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Computer Engineering, or Systems Engineering we would love to have you join the Radio Frequency Engineering Group!

We are looking for a Radio Systems Scientist to test, evaluate, and integrate RF systems, helping ensure their effectiveness in real-world environments and driving innovation in the next generation of missile defense systems.

As a Radio Systems Scientist, you will work on a wide variety of projects, including:

• Integrating, testing, and evaluating RF technologies and systems in hardware-in-the-loop (HiL) facilities and field test settings
• Developing algorithms and techniques for processing and visualizing RF data
• Developing modeling and simulation tools to predict real-world performance of RF systems
• Recommending improvements for RF systems through prototyping and experimentation
• Using anechoic chambers and RF testbeds to characterize system performance
• Collaborating with engineers across APL and external partners

Qualifications

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

• Have a PhD, or will have PhD in near future, in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Computer Engineering, or Systems Engineering, or another related technical field.
• Have experience in designing and performing experiments, as well as generating analyses and visualizations of experimental data.
• Have deep knowledge of at least one of the following: Wireless communications, GPS systems, radar and remote sensing, high-performance or GPU-based computing, or digital signal processing on embedded hardware.
• Have excellent interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills, and have demonstrated success while working within a team environment.
• Are familiar with using one or more types of RF test equipment such as spectrum analyzers, signal generators, waveform generators, oscilloscopes, signal analyzers, or RF recorders
• Are able to travel up to 10-20% of the time as needed.
• Can be present on-site at our Laurel, Maryland campus on a regular basis due to the classified nature of this position. Occasional telework may be considered.
• Are able to obtain an Interim Secret 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.

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