Artificial Intelligence (AI) Project Leader

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

Job summary

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory seeks a project leader to guide teams of engineers and scientists in prototyping and operationalizing state-of-the-art AI solutions for national defense challenges.

You will lead multi-disciplinary teams, develop high-impact research proposals, and mentor staff, while collaborating across APL, JHU, and the broader research community. This role requires TS‑level clearance readiness and willingness to travel as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering or another relevant field.
• Project leadership experience in DoD, Cyber, or National AI/Data Science settings.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; strong analytical and organizational skills.
• Active Top Secret clearance with TS/SCI+poly eligibility; U.S. citizenship required.
• Willingness and ability to travel to customer sites as needed.

Responsibilities

• Build and lead teams with APL scientists and engineers to deliver AI and data science solutions.
• Lead development of research proposals for high‑risk, high‑reward ideas and transition to impact.
• Mentor and grow team members into future leaders.
• Build partnerships with scientists across APL, JHU, and the wider research community.

Skills

Leadership experience

Team leadership

Communication skills

Analytical thinking

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering

Job description

Overview

Are you passionate about leading teams building solutions for our greatest national security challenges? Are you searching for engaging work with an employer that prioritizes impact, innovation, and professional development? If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team in the Analytic Capabilities group of the Asymmetric Operations Sector. We are seeking a project leader to build innovative solutions for challenges in national defense, guiding teams of engineers and software developers in prototyping and operationalizing state‑of‑the‑art AI solutions.

Responsibilities

• Build and lead strong teams with APL scientists and engineers to develop and deliver effective AI and data science solutions to civilian and military sponsors.
• Lead the development of new research proposals to pursue high‑risk, high‑reward ideas and transition successes to real‑world impact.
• Combine technical expertise and leadership experience to mentor and grow team members into future leaders.
• Build partnerships with scientists and engineers across APL, other divisions of JHU, and the wider research community.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering, or another relevant field.
• Project leadership experience in DoD, Cyber, or National Health‑based AI, Machine Learning, or Data Science settings.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; strong analytical and organizational skills.
• Active Top Secret clearance and ability to attain TS/SCI+poly clearance. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens.
• Willingness and ability to travel to customer sites as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• PhD in Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering, or a related field with an emphasis on data science or applied mathematics.
• At least 8 years of leadership, software development, and/or engineering experience.
• Prior experience with large government research and development programs across multiple military and civilian agencies.

About APL

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory brings world‑class expertise to our nation’s most critical defense, security, space, and science challenges. We celebrate diverse perspectives and encourage creativity, bold ideas, and career growth in a supportive environment.

EEO Statement

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].

Benefits

APL provides a comprehensive benefits package, including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short‑term and long‑term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development.

Pay Range

• Minimum Rate: $100,000 Annually
• Maximum Rate: $245,000 Annually