Chief Engineer: Systems Leader for High-Impact Programs

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

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.