Applied Spectroscopy & Remote Sensing Scientist

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 100,000 - 245,000; Full time

Job summary

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks an experienced scientist or engineer to advance remote sensing, applied spectroscopy, and EO/IR instrumentation. As part of the Optics and Photonics Group, you will model, analyze data, and build prototype systems for defense applications, working with a hands-on team in lab and field environments.

You will mentor staff, contribute to system design and testing, and communicate results through reports, briefings, and publications.

Qualifications

• BS or MS in electrical engineering, chemistry, physics, optics, or related field.
• At least 5 years of experience in spectroscopic measurement systems and optical instrumentation.
• Strong teamwork across multidisciplinary teams and ability to communicate with stakeholders.
• Eligible for Interim Secret clearance with potential for Secret; U.S. citizenship required.
• PhD in related field preferred for advanced roles.

Responsibilities

• Identify and execute technical courses of action to meet mission requirements, including modeling, data analysis, hardware development, and lab/field experiments.
• Mentor and train staff to build world-class expertise.
• Support design, modeling, and testing of advanced optics and photonics systems, including EO/IR sensors, radiometric measurements, and material characterization.
• Collaborate with systems engineers to understand mission requirements and research improvements.
• Document work in technical reports, presentations, and journal articles.

Skills

Spectroscopy

Optical instrumentation

Team collaboration

Technical communication

Security clearance

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in electrical engineering, chemistry, physics, or optics

Job description

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks an experienced scientist or engineer to advance remote sensing, applied spectroscopy, and EO/IR instrumentation. As part of the Optics and Photonics Group, you will model, analyze data, and build prototype systems for defense applications, working with a hands-on team in lab and field environments.

You will mentor staff, contribute to system design and testing, and communicate results through reports, briefings, and publications.