Maritime Systems Field Test Lead

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 59,000 - 146,000; Full time

Job summary

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks a Maritime Systems Field Test Specialist to lead field testing and deployment of crewed and uncrewed maritime systems.

You will coordinate test planning, logistics, and documentation across engineering teams, sponsors, and test ranges, ensuring safety, regulatory compliance, and mission success. Travel up to 25% and eligibility for security clearances are required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience required.
• Experience testing crewed and/or uncrewed maritime systems.
• Experience with DoD test ranges or U.S. Coast Guard testing preferred.
• Experience with classified systems and security protocols in testing environments.
• Strong writing abilities for test plans, reports, and SOPs.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and compliance for safety, security, and operational protocols for maritime test vessels.
• Manage logistics for field tests: equipment purchasing, transport, hazmat handling, security clearances, site access and regulatory compliance.
• Collaborate with engineers, program leads, facility managers, and sponsors to mitigate challenges.
• Oversee asset readiness: scheduling, site usage, and test-resource availability.
• Review and refine test plans and procedures to meet objectives and capabilities.
• Ensure data collection and reporting of test results and lessons learned for decision-making.
• Plan at-sea test events and operate APL vehicles to facilities.

Skills

Test planning

Logistics management

Field operations

Technical writing

Security clearance eligible

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent

Job description

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks a Maritime Systems Field Test Specialist to lead field testing and deployment of crewed and uncrewed maritime systems.

You will coordinate test planning, logistics, and documentation across engineering teams, sponsors, and test ranges, ensuring safety, regulatory compliance, and mission success. Travel up to 25% and eligibility for security clearances are required.