Control Systems Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL); Laurel (NE); On-site; USD 130,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) is seeking a seasoned engineer to perform autopilot and control studies for advanced missile systems. You will develop algorithms, validate performance with physics-based models, and guide teams while mentoring junior staff.

The role requires a strong background in flight dynamics, MATLAB/Simulink, and C++, with the ability to obtain Interim Secret clearance and potential Top Secret clearance. U.S.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a closely related technical discipline.
• PhD and/or relevant experience preferred.
• Strong background in autopilot and control system design and analysis.

Responsibilities

• Perform autopilot and control trade studies, designs, and analyses for next-generation missile systems.
• Develop algorithms and assess performance against sponsor objectives using high-fidelity physics-based models and lower-fidelity models.
• Provide technical leadership to teams of varying sizes and mentor junior staff in control design.
• Present technical work to stakeholders, sponsors, and external organizations during reviews.

Skills

Autopilot design

Flight dynamics

MATLAB

Simulink

C++

Leadership

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace/Mechanical/Electrical Engineering or Physics

PhD preferred

Job description

Requirements

Must have:

• Bachelors degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a closely related technical discipline.
• At least 5 years of experience in strategic weapons systems, including hypersonic or ballistic missile programs.
• Proven background in autopilot and control system design and analysis, using linear and nonlinear flight dynamics models.
• Interest in and willingness to support nuclear and hypersonic missile systems.
• Experience conducting analysis and development in MATLAB, Simulink, and C++.
• Strong analytical curiosity with the drive to investigate how systems function and act on that insight.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities, with experience building relationships across diverse teams.
• Ability to obtain an Interim Secret clearance by the start date and ultimately qualify for Top Secret clearance.
• U.S. citizenship is required for access to classified information.
• Preferred: PhD and/or relevant experience in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related field.
• Preferred: 10 or more years of experience in strategic weapons systems, including hypersonic or ballistic missile systems.
• Preferred: Demonstrated successful technical leadership of a team.
• Preferred: Experience or interest in guidance and navigation systems, or 6 degree-of-freedom modeling and simulation.
• Preferred: Current active Secret clearance or higher.

Responsibilities:

• Perform autopilot and control trade studies, designs, and analyses for next-generation missile systems.
• Develop algorithms and assess performance against sponsor objectives using both high-fidelity physics-based models and lower-fidelity parameterized models.
• Provide technical leadership to teams of varying sizes.
• Mentor junior staff to strengthen expertise in classical, modern, and advanced feedback control design for missile systems.
• Present technical work to internal stakeholders, sponsors, and external organizations during working groups, post-flight briefings, and program reviews.
• Independently evaluate real flight test performance of existing systems and help shape the design and capability of next-generation systems.

Company:

We are the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL), where we bring world‑class expertise to some of the nations most critical defense, security, space, and science challenges. Our team works in a highly collaborative, welcoming environment that values authenticity, creativity, and bold ideas. We offer generous benefits, including robust education assistance, strong retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. Our campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area, and we support a broad range of employee programs such as medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability coverage, flexible spending accounts, training and development, and additional compensation opportunities where applicable.