Defense Communications Systems Engineer

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

Job summary

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) is seeking Networking and Software Engineers to design, prototype, and test secure communications for national security missions in diverse environments. You’ll join a multidisciplinary team focused on real-time information access for government sponsors, with mentoring and opportunities for training and conference participation.

The role emphasizes hands-on learning, collaboration, and applying AI to networking, with potential to work on wired,

Qualifications

• Have a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or other related technical degree
• Have experience developing software in languages such as Python, C++, Go, Rust or others.
• Can work effectively both independently and in teams and possess strong interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.
• Meet at least two of the following criteria: exposure to fundamentals of networking; understanding CS fundamentals; experience in communications systems, modeling and simulation, evaluation or developmental testing.
• Are able to obtain an Interim Top Secret level security clearance by your start date and ultimately Top Secret clearance; U.S. citizenship required.

Responsibilities

• Research solutions and engineering secure communications and networking technologies for national security missions.
• Design, develop, and test software as part of user interfaces, network protocols, evaluation tools, and more.
• Explore AI applications to networking, communications, and autonomous systems.
• Develop wired and wireless network technology, designs, and architectures.
• Evaluate operational networks through experimentation, analysis, and field testing; deliver actionable recommendations.

Skills

Networking basics

Software development

Team collaboration

Oral & written communication

Linux environment

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or Computer Engineering

Tools

Python

C++

Go

Rust

iPerf

Wireshark

Nmap

Job description

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) is seeking Networking and Software Engineers to design, prototype, and test secure communications for national security missions in diverse environments. You’ll join a multidisciplinary team focused on real-time information access for government sponsors, with mentoring and opportunities for training and conference participation.

The role emphasizes hands-on learning, collaboration, and applying AI to networking, with potential to work on wired,