Network Effects Research Engineer

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 100,000 - 245,000; Full time

Job summary

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory seeks a hands-on Network Effects R&D Engineer to develop and evaluate evolving network- and comms-enabled capabilities. You will design threat-representative topologies, write automation software, and collaborate with mission partners to translate complex challenges into discreet, robust solutions.

Ideal candidates have 3+ years in software development or T&E for networked/wireless tech, strong C/Python/C++/Rust skills, and an active TS/SCI

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a technical field or equivalent
• 3+ years of software development, prototyping, or test & evaluation of networked/wireless tech
• Experience writing software in Python/C/C++/Rust to build tools and automation
• Understanding of TCP/IP internals and packet analysis in Linux using Wireshark/tcpdump/Scapy
• Strong communication and teamwork; able to work independently or in teams
• Willingness to travel up to 25% for field testing
• Active Top Secret security clearance with ability to obtain TS/SCI

Responsibilities

• Develop, evaluate, and qualify network- and comms-enabled capabilities
• Design, build, and orchestrate threat-representative network topologies and software-defined systems
• Write software for automation, traffic generation, and analysis
• Collaborate with mission partners to translate operational challenges into actionable tech
• Mentor technical teams and drive robust clandestine-capability solutions

Skills

Software development

Python

C/C++

Rust

Linux networking

TCP/IP internals

Network protocols

Communication & teamwork

Travel up to 25%

TS/SCI clearance

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or related field

Master's degree (preferred)

Tools

GNS3

CORE

Mininet

EVE-NG

Kubernetes

GNU Radio

USRP/HackRF

Wireshark

Job description

Description

Do you want to conduct advanced research, development, and test and evaluation of communications systems and network technologies that enable stealthy and resilient operations?

If so, we'd like you to join our innovative team of engineers and researchers to solve some of the hardest networking and communications problems in denied, contested, and sensitive environments.

We are looking for a hands-on engineer who thrives in a fast-paced R&D environment and enjoys building, breaking, and measuring things: someone who writes code, prototypes systems, and thinks like an adversary to integrate and operationalize low-profile capabilities that use wireless and networking technologies. This position is focused on research and development rather than traditional network administration or IT operations.

As a Network Effects R&D Engineer, you will...

• Develop, evaluate, and qualify an evolving portfolio of network- and comms-enabled capabilities, analyzing them at the protocol and signal level to determine their real-world operational impact, signature footprint, and clandestine survivability.
• Design, build, and orchestrate threat-representative network topologies and software-defined communications systems (including SDR and emulated networks) that incorporate Anti-Detection and Anti-Censorship concepts, to serve as test ranges tailored to unique mission profiles.
• Write software for automation, traffic generation, and analysis, used in test, evaluation, and assessment of comms and network-based effects.
• Collaborate directly with mission partners and operators to translate complex operational challenges in denied environments into actionable, low-profile technical solutions.
• Hone leadership skills by mentoring technical teams and driving them toward robust solutions for clandestine capabilities.

Qualifications

You meet the minimum qualifications for this position if you...

• Have a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Cybersecurity, or a closely related technical field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Have at least three years of relevant experience developing software, prototyping systems, or performing test, evaluation, and assessment of networked or wireless technologies.
• Have hands-on experience writing software (beyond configuration or administrative scripts) in languages such as Python, C/C++, or Rust to build tools and automation.
• Understand networking at the protocol level (e.g., TCP/IP internals, packet structure, protocol behavior) and are comfortable analyzing traffic in Linux with tools such as Wireshark, tcpdump, or Scapy.
• Have strong communication and teamwork skills, with demonstrated initiative in both independent and collaborative problem-solving environments.
• Are willing and able to travel up to 25% for field testing and operational integration.
• Hold an active Top Secret security clearance and can ultimately obtain a TS/SCI 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 Master's degree (or higher) in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Have at least five years of demonstrated experience in network or communications R&D, software development, or Test and Evaluation (T&E) for DoD or IC customers.
• Have specific experience and proficiency in the following areas:
• Networking & Protocols: Deep understanding of Linux networking internals and experience implementing, fuzzing, or reverse engineering network protocols.
• Wireless & SDR: Experience with RF/wireless communications and software-defined radio (e.g., GNU Radio, USRP, HackRF), or with Wi‑Fi, cellular, or Bluetooth protocols.
• Clandestine Operations & LPX: Understanding of covert access methods, protocol obfuscation, and anti-censorship technologies (e.g., Tor, pluggable transports), plus engineering solutions that establish persistence or deliver effects in austere environments.
• Network Orchestration & Emulation: Proficiency with containers and orchestration tools (e.g., Kubernetes) and with network emulation tools (e.g., GNS3, CORE, Mininet, EVE‑NG) to build large‑scale topologies.
• Hardware Integration: Experience working with embedded Linux devices, cross-compilation, and integration
• Advanced T&E: Experience writing thorough test plans, generating network data in controlled experiments, analyzing packet‑level data, and preparing comprehensive technical reports.
• Security Research: Background in vulnerability research, red teaming, and security or networking research.
• Hold an active TS/SCI security clearance or higher.

About Us

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world‑class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore‑Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

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. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

Minimum Rate

$100,000 Annually

Maximum Rate

$245,000 Annually