Concept Architect - Defense Systems & Optimization

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 85,000 - 165,000; Full time

Job summary

Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks an Advanced Concept Engineer to shape next-generation missile and weapon concepts. You will work with technical experts to transform operational needs into credible concepts and provide insight for strategic decisions.

You will conduct multidisciplinary studies, formulate models for design and performance analysis, and distill findings for sponsors and executives, with autonomy to pursue innovative approaches in defense challenges.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering or related field.
• 2+ years of relevant academic research.
• Experience in at least one aerospace system discipline (vehicle design, propulsion, aerodynamics, GNC, or sensors).
• Experience with trajectory optimization, aerothermal modeling, or mechanical design of aerospace systems.
• Ability to translate real-world problems into mathematical models and draw conclusions from numerical results.
• Proficiency in MATLAB, Python, or C++ and eligibility to obtain security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Conduct multidisciplinary trade, optimization, and system-of-systems studies for next-generation missile concepts.
• Analyze problems across missile design, mission planning, fire control, and defense applications.
• Develop and implement physics-based/empirical models for conceptual design and analysis.
• Distill complex results into actionable insights for sponsors and leadership.
• Translate operational needs into mathematical formulations for modeling and optimization.
• Identify cutting-edge methods from industry and academia to tackle defense challenges.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Math modeling

Numerical analysis

Security clearance eligibility

Education

Master’s Degree in Aerospace/Mechanical Engineering

Tools

MATLAB

Python

C++

Job description

Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks an Advanced Concept Engineer to shape next-generation missile and weapon concepts. You will work with technical experts to transform operational needs into credible concepts and provide insight for strategic decisions.

You will conduct multidisciplinary studies, formulate models for design and performance analysis, and distill findings for sponsors and executives, with autonomy to pursue innovative approaches in defense challenges.