Decision Systems Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 85,000 - 195,000; Full time

Job summary

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, MD seeks a systems engineer to support defense programs, focusing on command and control (C2) systems and digital engineering. You will learn to become a go-to expert in defense systems architecture, operational concepts, and requirements, with opportunities for professional growth.

You will work on a multidisciplinary team, use models and simulations, and help deliver trusted, mission-relevant decisions to warfighters, while supporting the

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in engineering, physics, or mathematics.
• Clear written and verbal communication.
• U.S. citizenship with eligibility for Interim Secret clearance.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to systems engineering on air, missile, and multi-domain defense programs.
• Use models and simulations to evaluate options and derive requirements.
• Translate concepts into functional and performance requirements and present results in reviews.

Skills

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree or higher in engineering, physics, or mathematics

Job description

Overview

Are you eager to apply systems thinking and innovative technical methods to solve some of the country’s most significant defense problems? If so, we are looking for someone like you to join our team at APL. We are seeking a systems engineer who enjoys a fast‑paced environment and will improve our ability to define and develop command and control (C2) systems that deliver trusted, mission‑relevant decisions to the warfighter. We will support your professional development as a go‑to person for understanding defense systems architecture, operational concepts, and requirements. We give you the autonomy you want, the support you need, and all the opportunity you can handle. You will learn something new every day, with a focus on making real operational impact.

Role Responsibilities

Your primary responsibility will be to contribute to systems engineering activities on sophisticated air, missile, and multi‑domain defense programs, in the context of a focused digital engineering development process. You will serve on a highly motivated multi‑disciplinary team that: develops and evaluates new capabilities; figures out how to implement those capabilities in new or existing systems; uses models and simulations to evaluate different options; translates selected concepts into specific functional and performance requirements; and presents results in technical meetings and program reviews with government, contractor, and research laboratory participants.

Qualifications

• Have a bachelor’s degree or higher in engineering, physics, or mathematics.
• Communicate clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing.
• Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date. 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.

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

• Have 2 or more years’ experience in systems engineering, especially on missile defense or C2 programs.
• Have experience with model‑based systems engineering or digital engineering.
• Have a Top Secret security clearance.

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.

EEO Statement

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

Minimum Rate: $85,000 Annually
Maximum Rate: $195,000 Annually