Lead Orbital Warfare Modeler — 6DoF Space Simulations

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

Job summary

Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks an Orbital Warfare Modeler to join a small, high-impact team developing advanced modeling and simulation capabilities for space orbital warfare scenarios.

You will lead system-level trade space analyses, develop physics-based simulations, and deliver insights that inform critical national security decisions in contested space environments. An active TS/SCI clearance (or eligibility) and U.S. citizenship are required.

Qualifications

• BS degree in a technical field is required.
• 7+ years of experience planning and carrying out system evaluation studies.
• Ability to explain complex ideas to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Active TS/SCI security clearance (or eligibility) with U.S. citizenship.

Responsibilities

• Plan and complete large-scale system trade space analyses.
• Develop, run, and analyze physics-based simulations of orbital and vehicle systems (6DoF, closed-loop control).
• Conduct orbital maneuver design, trajectory analysis, rendezvous and proximity operations, and SDA assessments.
• Work with orbital data sets (TLEs, ephemerides), perform orbit determination and conjunction assessment.
• Document work, compose presentations, and convey results to diverse audiences.
• Collaborate with a small engineering team through regular discussions and problem solving.

Skills

Orbital mechanics knowledge

Ability to communicate complex ideas

System-level thinking

Education

BS degree in a related technical field

Tools

MATLAB

Python

C++

Linux

HPC

Job description

Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks an Orbital Warfare Modeler to join a small, high-impact team developing advanced modeling and simulation capabilities for space orbital warfare scenarios.

You will lead system-level trade space analyses, develop physics-based simulations, and deliver insights that inform critical national security decisions in contested space environments. An active TS/SCI clearance (or eligibility) and U.S. citizenship are required.