Defense Software Intern — Build Mission-Critical Apps

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 31,000 - 66,000; Full time

Job summary

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory is seeking a Software Engineering Intern in Laurel, MD. You will work with experienced engineers to design, build, test, and improve mission planning software used to support U.S. military operations.

As part of the team, you will gain mentorship and hands-on experience with modern software practices, including automated testing, containerization, DevSecOps, and secure development, while contributing to impactful defense projects.

Qualifications

• Pursuing Bachelor's in CS/CE/SE or closely related field.
• GPA 3.4+ on a 4.0 scale.
• Experience with C++, Python, Java, JS or TS.
• Team-based academic, research, or project experience.
• Strong written and verbal communication.
• Able to obtain Interim Secret clearance and Secret clearance; U.S. citizenship required.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, test, and improve software for modeling, simulation, and mission planning.
• Contribute to software supporting multiple mission areas (e.g., missile defense, air warfare).
• Help develop AI-enabled capabilities and efficient algorithms.
• Collaborate with engineers, mathematicians, and domain experts in a collaborative environment.
• Participate in design reviews, code reviews, and agile activities.
• Learn DevSecOps, automated testing, containerization, and secure development practices.

Skills

C++

Python

Java

JavaScript

TypeScript

Education

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science/Computer Engineering/Software Engineering

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Git

Linux

Docker

Kubernetes

CI/CD

Cloud technologies

Job description

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory is seeking a Software Engineering Intern in Laurel, MD. You will work with experienced engineers to design, build, test, and improve mission planning software used to support U.S. military operations.

As part of the team, you will gain mentorship and hands-on experience with modern software practices, including automated testing, containerization, DevSecOps, and secure development, while contributing to impactful defense projects.