Interoperability and Communications Systems Engineer

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

Job summary

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, MD is seeking an Interoperability and Communications Systems Engineer to lead performance analysis of tactical data links and develop innovative data network capabilities for future joint warfighting systems.

You will integrate new capabilities into existing networks, analyze system architectures, and collaborate on C5I solutions to connect autonomous systems.

Qualifications

• B.S. degree in Engineering, Mathematics, Computer Science, or related field.
• Experience in system integration with attention to detail.
• Background developing and operating joint service networks (Link-16, JREAP-C) or similar.
• Knowledge of MILSTD 6016, CDLMS, C2P, LMMT, and NSITE.
• Travel 10–25% domestically or internationally.
• Eligibility for Interim Secret clearance and ability to obtain Secret clearance; U.S. citizenship.

Responsibilities

• Lead performance analysis of tactical data links and development of innovative data network capabilities to enable future joint warfighting capabilities.
• Integrate advanced capabilities into existing network architectures to improve network reliability and resilience.
• Analyze communication system architectures and tactical data networks.
• Collaborate to develop C5I architecture solutions to integrate autonomous systems into the armed forces.
• Develop proposals and operational scenarios and communicate them to program leadership including government sponsors.

Skills

System integration

Travel 10–25%

Security clearance eligibility

Education

B.S. in Engineering/Math/CS or related field

M.S. in Engineering/Math/CS or related field

Tools

Link-16

JREAP-C

CDLMS

C2P

LMMT

NSITE

GBS/IBS

Starlink/Starshield

Job description

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 creative, motivated, and hard‑working engineer who is passionate about warfighter missions and ensuring defense of US 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.

As an Interoperability and Communications Systems Engineer on our team …

Your primary responsibility will be to lead performance analysis of tactical data links and development of innovative data network capabilities to enable future joint warfighting capabilities and kill‑chains. You will also:

• 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

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you…

• 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 Managements 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 upon 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 requirements include U.S. citizenship.

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

• Have a M.S. degree in Engineering, Mathematics, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Have expertise with the 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 management of 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.

Minimum Rate

$105,000 Annually

Maximum Rate

$290,000 Annually

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].

The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL’s good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign‑on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short‑term disability, long‑term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development.