2027 PhD Graduate - Trajectory Optimization Engineer - System Modeling, Evaluation, and Planning Group

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel (MD)

On-site

USD 105,000 - 245,000

Full time

5 days ago

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Benefits offered by this job

Education assistance

Retirement contributions

Work/life balance

Sign-on bonus

Relocation benefits

Locality allowance

Discretionary payments for exceptional

Life insurance

Job summary

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks a Trajectory Optimization Engineer to develop models and algorithms for mission planning and evaluation of missile systems. You will join a team of engineers, physicists, software developers, and mathematicians delivering flight-ready solutions for national defense.

The role emphasizes applying advanced numerical optimization, modeling vehicle dynamics, and building software for planning and evaluation.

Qualifications

PhD in engineering, computational science, applied mathematics, or related field.

Responsibilities

Apply advanced numerical optimization methods to hypersonic vehicle design and mission planning
Model the dynamics of hypersonic vehicles in varying environments
Develop software for mission planning and flight system evaluation
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

Skills

MATLAB

C++

Nonlinear programming

Complex mathematical models

Education

Ph.D. in engineering/computational science/applied mathematics

Job description

Description

Are you interested in applying your STEM background to 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 PhD in math, physics, engineering, or a closely related field, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.

The System Modeling, Evaluation, and Planning Group within the Force Projection Sector of the John Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory is seeking Trajectory Optimization Engineers to develop models, numerical algorithms, and novel approaches for mission planning and evaluation of missile systems.

You will be joining a hardworking team of engineers, physicists, software developers, and mathematicians who are enthusiastic about their role in the development of engineering solutions for the nation’s strategic systems. We strive to foster an environment of innovation and learning to develop the critical technologies and experts of the future.

As a trajectory optimization engineer you will…

Apply advanced numerical optimization methods and computational approaches to hypersonic vehicles
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 Ph.D. 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 C++
Have a background in nonlinear programming and/or optimal control theory
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…

Have experience implementing numerical algorithms in C++ (or similar compiled/object-oriented programming language)
Have experience developing 3-DoF and/or 6-DoF flight simulations
Hold an active Top Secret security clearance or higher

About Us

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.

Why Work at APL?

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 Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.

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. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

a robust education assistance program
unparalleled retirement contributions
a healthy work/life balance

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.