Mission Planning & AI Research 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 in Laurel, Maryland seeks a Research Engineer in Mission Planning & AI with a Ph.D. to apply advanced research to national defense challenges.

You will work with engineers, scientists, and military experts to develop algorithms, modeling frameworks, and AI techniques, translating research into deployable capabilities with operational impact. This role requires collaboration across disciplines, mentorship of junior engineers, and

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Systems Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Astronautical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, Computer Science, Physics, AI, Data Science, Mathematics, OR related field.
• Proven research record and ability to solve complex technical problems.
• Experience developing analytical models, simulations, optimization methods, or AI solutions using MATLAB, Python, or similar environments.
• Experience leading collaborative research or technical projects.
• Excellent written and oral communication of complex concepts.
• Willingness to collaborate with military operators to address operational challenges.
• Able to obtain Interim Secret/Secret security clearance; U.S. citizenship required.

Responsibilities

• Lead technical efforts advancing next‑generation mission planning and decision‑support capabilities.
• Develop innovative algorithms, analytical methods, modeling frameworks, and AI techniques.
• Design, evaluate, and improve mission planning architectures supporting multiple mission areas.
• Conduct analyses to evaluate capabilities, identify improvements, and inform system development.
• Assess fidelity and effectiveness of modeling and simulation tools.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to transition research into deployable capabilities.
• Work with military operators to translate needs into technical solutions.
• Publish findings internally and influence technical strategy.
• Mentor junior engineers and promote technical excellence.

Skills

MATLAB

Python

C++

Algorithms

Optimization

AI/ML

Education

Ph.D. in Systems Engineering, Aerospace Eng, etc.

Tools

Docker

Kubernetes

JavaScript/TypeScript

Job description

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Maryland seeks a Research Engineer in Mission Planning & AI with a Ph.D. to apply advanced research to national defense challenges.

You will work with engineers, scientists, and military experts to develop algorithms, modeling frameworks, and AI techniques, translating research into deployable capabilities with operational impact. This role requires collaboration across disciplines, mentorship of junior engineers, and