Hypersonics Trajectory Optimization Engineer

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 105,000 - 245,000; Full time

Job summary

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) in Laurel, MD seeks a Trajectory Optimization Engineer with a PhD to join a multidisciplinary team. You will develop models, numerical algorithms, and mission planning software to evaluate missile concepts and flight systems.

The role emphasizes optimization, simulation, and rigorous testing to advance concepts toward flight readiness. You will collaborate with engineers, physicists, software developers, and mathematicians to create

Qualifications

• Hold a Ph.D. in an engineering discipline, computational science, applied mathematics, or a related technical field
• Are proficient with a high-level programming language, such as MATLAB or C++
• Have a background in nonlinear programming and/or optimal control theory
• Have demonstrated experience working with complex mathematical models
• Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Top Secret level clearance. 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.

Responsibilities

• Apply advanced numerical optimization methods and computational approaches to hypersonic vehicles
• Model the dynamics of hypersonic vehicles in varying environments
• Develop software for mission planning and flight system evaluation using advanced numerical optimization methods
• Design methods for evaluating and testing developed software
• Document and present work to sponsors and third-party collaborators
• Interact with sponsors and external representatives to formulate concepts of operation for these novel and advanced technologies

Skills

MATLAB

C++

Nonlinear programming

Optimal control

Mathematical modeling

Security clearance eligibility

Education

PhD in engineering/computational science/applied mathematics

Tools

MATLAB

C++

Job description

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) in Laurel, MD seeks a Trajectory Optimization Engineer with a PhD to join a multidisciplinary team. You will develop models, numerical algorithms, and mission planning software to evaluate missile concepts and flight systems.

The role emphasizes optimization, simulation, and rigorous testing to advance concepts toward flight readiness. You will collaborate with engineers, physicists, software developers, and mathematicians to create