Interoperability and Communications Systems Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 105,000 - 290,000; Full time

Job summary

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Maryland is seeking an engineer for their systems interoperability team. The ideal candidate will lead performance analysis of tactical data links, integrate advanced capabilities into network architectures, and develop proposals for internal and external stakeholders. A B.S. in Engineering or related field is required. The salary ranges from $105,000 to $290,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications.

Qualifications

• Possess relevant degree or equivalent experience.
• Demonstrated experience in system integration.
• Knowledge of tactical data link architectures.

Responsibilities

• Lead performance analysis of tactical data links.
• Integrate capabilities into existing network architectures.
• Collaborate to develop C5I architecture solutions.

Skills

System integration

Communication system architecture

Attention to detail

Joint service networks

Data network capabilities

Education

B.S. degree in Engineering, Mathematics, Computer Science, or related field

M.S. degree preferred

Tools

MILSTD 6016

Common Data Link Management System (CDLMS)

Link Monitoring and Management Tool (LMMT)

Job description

Job Description

Are you a committed problem‑solver with passion for operational tactical data communications? Do you thrive working collaboratively where creativity is encouraged? If so, we’re looking for you to join our systems interoperability team at APL. We are seeking a creative, motivated, and hard‑working engineer who is passionate about warfighter missions and ensuring the defense of U.S. and Allied assets. As a member of our team, you will develop, analyze, and test in the field future data communication link frameworks required by our military.

Primary Responsibilities

• Lead performance analysis of tactical data links and develop innovative data network capabilities to enable future joint warfighting capabilities and kill‑chains.
• Integrate advanced capabilities into existing network architectures to improve network reliability and resilience.
• Perform analysis of communication system architectures and tactical data networks.
• Collaborate in a team environment to develop C5I architecture solutions to integrate autonomous systems into the armed forces.
• Develop proposals and operational scenarios and communicate them to internal and external program leadership, including government sponsors.

Qualifications

• Possess a B.S. degree in Engineering, Mathematics, Computer Science, or a related field or equivalent experience.
• Have demonstrated experience working system integration, including strong understanding of incorporating ideas and functionalities within a broader network or mission with attention to detail.
• Served as a Joint Interface Control Officer or have a similar background developing and operating joint service networks, including Link‑16, JREAP‑C, or other tactical data link architectures.
• Have detailed knowledge of MILSTD 6016, Common Data Link Management System (CDLMS), Command and Control Processor (C2P), Link Monitoring and Management Tool (LMMT), and Network System Integration and Test Environment (NSITE).
• Are able and willing to travel 10%–25% of your time; travel may be domestic or international and may include embarking on naval vessels or aircraft.
• Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a 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 requires U.S. citizenship.

Preferred Qualifications

• Hold an M.S. degree in Engineering, Mathematics, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Have expertise with tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) to achieve interdependence and operational effectiveness, integration and interoperability of tactical data links to contribute to a common tactical picture.
• Have experience writing and championing an Interface Change Proposal (ICP), and/or planning and managing operational data flows through gateways or extended interfaces.
• Have experience using the Global Broadcast System and Integrated Broadcast System (GBS/IBS) and/or Starlink/Starshield networks.
• Hold an active Secret government security clearance and are capable of attaining a Top Secret/SCI government security clearance.

Equal Employment Opportunity 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.

Compensation

Minimum Rate: $105,000 annually
Maximum Rate: $290,000 annually