AI/ML Systems Engineer — Missile Defense & Tracking

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

Job summary

Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks innovative PhD graduates to join a group focused on U.S. Missile Defense systems at our Huntsville, AL site with a Laurel, MD reach-back.

You will conduct systems analysis, develop novel concepts, and apply math, engineering, CS, and physics to build advanced distributed algorithms and AI/ML solutions, contributing to high-impact defense capabilities.

Qualifications

• PhD in Math, CS, Physics, EE or related field.
• Detail-oriented with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Familiarity with probabilistic algorithms and numerical methods.
• Programming experience in MATLAB, C++, Python.
• Self-motivated to analyze data and assess system performance.
• Able to work independently and in teams; collaboration skills with other teams.

Responsibilities

• Conduct systems analysis to identify gaps and develop novel defense concepts.
• Apply math, engineering, CS and physics to implement distributed algorithms.
• Develop AI/ML-based concepts and solutions.
• Implement data fusion and tracking for object tracking and discrimination.
• Analyze simulation outputs and translate results into insights for sponsors.
• Deliver presentations to technical staff, leadership and sponsors.
• Develop prototypes and transition ideas to fielded systems.

Skills

MATLAB

C++

Python

probabilistic algorithms

numerical methods

analytical skills

team collaboration

Education

PhD in Math/CS/Physics/EE or related field

Job description

Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks innovative PhD graduates to join a group focused on U.S. Missile Defense systems at our Huntsville, AL site with a Laurel, MD reach-back.

You will conduct systems analysis, develop novel concepts, and apply math, engineering, CS, and physics to build advanced distributed algorithms and AI/ML solutions, contributing to high-impact defense capabilities.