Cyber Engineer - Capabilities Development

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

Job summary

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) is seeking a cybersecurity professional in the Capabilities Development Group (QCC) to push the boundaries of cyber defense for critical systems. The role emphasizes collaboration with multidisciplinary teams to translate stakeholder needs into secure, operating concepts and detailed requirements.

You will document findings, mentor colleagues, and contribute to novel cyber concepts, capabilities, and operational solutions, with

Qualifications

• A B.S. in Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, or a technical degree.
• 5+ years of experience developing cyber concepts, systems, or analytics with systems engineering or operational planning.
• Experience in one or more programming languages.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills and ability to work in teams.
• Eligibility to obtain a Top Secret clearance by start date and Top Secret/TS–SCI eligibility.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with stakeholders to document needs and translate them into requirements.
• Lead creation of novel cyber concepts, capabilities, and techniques for cyber superiority.
• Develop and apply understanding of cyber concepts to solve security challenges in operations.
• Document and present findings, results, and mitigation strategies.
• Mentor team members to develop future leaders and technical experts.

Skills

5+ years cyber experience

Programming languages

Analytical skills

Top Secret clearance eligibility

Education

B.S. in Computer Science

M.S. in Computer Science

Job description

Description

Are you passionate about enhancing the cyber resilience of critical systems? Do you want the chance to push the boundaries of cyber defense? Are you excited about working with others to solve some of the nation’s toughest cyber challenges? If so, we want you to join our team at APL’s Capabilities Development Group (QCC)! We work as a multi-disciplinary team of systems, cybersecurity, and software engineers, who enable mission resilience by developing novel tools. We leverage the latest threat intelligence along with cutting‑edge cybersecurity trends, techniques and technologies to achieve an operational advantage for our sponsors.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with operational stakeholders to understand and document their needs, and translate them into well‑defined requirements.
• Collaborate with multi‑disciplinary teams to lead the creation of novel cyber concepts, capabilities, and techniques to achieve cyber superiority in emerging domains.
• Develop and apply a detailed understanding of computer, network, systems, and cybersecurity concepts to create, assess, and operationalize novel approaches to solving cyber system security challenges in operational environments.
• Document and present findings, results, concepts, recommendations, and mitigation strategies.
• Guide and mentor team members to develop future leaders and technical experts.

Qualifications

You’ll meet our minimum qualifications if you …

• Possess a B.S. in Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, or other technical degree.
• Possess 5+ years of experience developing cyber concepts, systems, or analytics, with an understanding of systems engineering or operational planning.
• Have experience in one or more programming languages.
• Have strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, excellent interpersonal and communication skills, good organizational skills, and the ability to work in teams.
• Are able to obtain a Top Secret security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Top Secret / SCI Clearance. Eligibility includes U.S. citizenship.

Additional qualifications that go above and beyond our minimum requirements

• Possess a M.S. in Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, or other technical degree.
• Possess 10+ years of experience developing cyber concepts, systems, or analytics, with an understanding of systems engineering or operational planning.
• Have experience in conducting research, development, and testing of offensive cyber capabilities.
• Have experience in DevSecOps.
• Have experience with DoD and/or IC cyber operations/mission forces.
• Hold an active Top Secret security clearance and can eventually obtain TS/SCI level clearance. Eligibility includes U.S. citizenship.

About Us

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. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

Legal & Equity

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].

Compensation & Benefits

Minimum Rate: $100,000 Annually

Maximum Rate: $245,000 Annually