A4 Non-Kinetic Warfare Branch Chief Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 125,000 - 290,000; Full time

Job summary

The Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks a Branch Chief Engineer to guide diverse, high‑impact programs from concept to fieldable systems, and to advance strategic competencies in the A4 Non‑Kinetic Warfare Branch.

You will lead engineering rigor, mentor staff, manage collaborations with sponsors, and ensure alignment with AMDS strategy while pursuing new core capabilities across EW, AI/ML, autonomy, and networks.

Qualifications

• MS or higher in Engineering or related field.
• Minimum 10 years of professional experience.
• Active Top Secret clearance; U.S. citizenship required.
• Experience in at least two areas: EW, Directed Energy, Cyber, AI/ML, Autonomy, Networks, Signal Processing.
• Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and complex programs.

Responsibilities

• Provide engineering leadership with rigorous discipline across the Branch.
• Advise on design decisions, risk mitigation, and integration challenges.
• Align execution with AMDS strategy and track progress.
• Mentor staff and develop technical depth.
• Develop collaborations with sponsors and partners.

Skills

Leadership

Systems engineering

Cross-disciplinary collaboration

Technical depth

Education

MS in Engineering or related field

Job description

Description

Do you thrive on guiding complex, multidisciplinary efforts from concept to fieldable capability?

Are you passionate about aligning engineering execution with long‑term strategic vision?

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

The A4 Non‑Kinetic Warfare Branch is seeking a forward‑thinking, innovative technical leader to serve as Branch Chief Engineer. The successful candidate will be a highly respected member of the DOW community with demonstrated technical depth, systems engineering rigor, and the ability to lead complex, high‑impact engineering efforts. This individual will be instrumental in strengthening the Branch’s technical excellence, advancing strategic core competencies, and mentoring high‑performing staff to develop and deliver innovative, mission‑relevant capabilities aligned with AMDS strategic intent.

As a Chief Engineer you will…

Provide Technical Leadership and Engineering Rigor

• Establish and uphold engineering standards, technical quality, and systems integration discipline across the Branch.
• Maintain awareness of state‑of‑the‑art developments in relevant technical domains and ensure their appropriate integration into Branch competencies.
• Lead by example in applying sound engineering principles to complex, multidisciplinary challenges.
• Partner closely with the A4 Chief Scientist to mature and transition S&T concepts into robust, fieldable systems aligned with AMDS strategy.

Serve as Senior Engineering Authority

• Advise Branch and Group Supervisors on complex technical and programmatic engineering matters.
• Provide expert insight into design decisions, risk mitigation, and integration challenges.
• Lead or contribute to technical reviews and quality assessments across the Branch.
• Serve as a central engineering resource for technical leaders in the Branch.
• Strengthen cross‑Branch and cross‑Sector technical collaboration to enable execution of APL and AMDS strategic objectives.
• Lead and make direct technical contributions to critical, high‑visibility programs.
• Identify and develop new core engineering competencies in emerging mission‑critical technologies.

Align Engineering Execution with Strategy

• Contribute to the development and refinement of Branch strategic priorities.
• Ensure engineering execution aligns with AMDS strategic intent and focus areas.
• Maintain visibility into technical progress across programs and ensure appropriate rigor, pace, and risk management.

Advance Technical Growth and Capability

• Initiate and support novel engineering concepts and technical studies.
• Contribute to white papers and proposals to secure internal and external funding.
• Mentor and develop engineering staff, strengthening technical depth and leadership across the Branch.

Enable Collaboration and Program Growth

• Work closely with Program Managers and other Branches to develop collaboration opportunities and new programs.
• Support development of strong technical relationships with sponsors and partners.

Qualifications

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you

• Possess a M.S. or higher in Engineering or related technical field.
• Have a minimum of 10 years of professional experience.
• Possess relevant experience in at least two of the following areas:
  • Electronic Warfare
  • Directed Energy
  • Cyber Warfare
  • Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
  • Autonomy
  • Advanced Communication Systems and Networks
  • Engagement Coordination and Engagement Control
  • Signal Processing
• Have demonstrated success leading complex engineering efforts and high‑visibility programs.
• Have proven ability to build and lead multidisciplinary teams and integrate complex systems.
• Demonstrated technical depth and breadth with effective leadership skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Peer‑reviewed publications, conference presentations, or equivalent high‑quality classified documentation and technical briefings.
• Hold an active Top Secret security 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 a PhD in a STEM field.
• Have 15+ years of professional experience.
• Possess detailed knowledge of the AMD Sector’s programs, sponsors, and current and emerging engineering challenges.
• Have prior APL line management experience.

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

$125,000 Annually

Maximum Rate

$290,000 Annually