Artificial Intelligence (AI) Project Leader

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

Job summary

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, MD is seeking an AI Project Leader to guide teams of engineers and scientists in prototyping and operationalizing state-of-the-art AI solutions for civilian and military sponsors.

You will lead research proposals, mentor team members to become future leaders, and build interdisciplinary partnerships across APL, the wider JHU ecosystem, and the broader research community.

Qualifications

• Possess a Bachelor’s or Master's degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering, or other relevant field
• Possess 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
• Hold an active Top Secret clearance, and can ultimately obtain a TS/SCI+poly 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.
• Are willing and able to travel to customer sites as needed.

Responsibilities

• You will 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
• You will lead the development of new research proposals to pursue high-risk, high-reward ideas and transition successes to real world impact
• You will combine your technical expertise and leadership experience to mentor and grow team members into future leaders
• You will build partnerships with scientists and engineers across APL, the other divisions of JHU, and the wider research community

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Analytical skills

Travel readiness

Education

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

Job description

Description

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 help us build innovative solutions for challenges in national defense. We are looking for a project and technical leader to guide teams of engineers and software developers prototyping and operationalizing state of the art AI solutions.

As an AI Project Leader

• You will 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
• You will lead the development of new research proposals to pursue high-risk, high-reward ideas and transition successes to real world impact
• You will combine your technical expertise and leadership experience to mentor and grow team members into future leaders
• You will build partnerships with scientists and engineers across APL, the other divisions of JHU, and the wider research community

Qualifications

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you…

• Possess a Bachelor’s or Master's degree in Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering, or other relevant field
• Possess 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
• Hold an active Top Secret clearance, and can ultimately obtain a TS/SCI+poly 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.
• Are willing and able to travel to customer sites as needed.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you…

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

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.

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

$100,000 Annually

Maximum Rate

$245,000 Annually