Physics-Based Systems Analyst

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

Job summary

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) is seeking analysts to support the technical evaluation of national strategic deterrents. You will join a multidisciplinary team of engineers, physicists, and mathematicians to develop high-fidelity physics models and design experiments for data-driven validation.

The role emphasizes building robust computational tools in C++, MATLAB, or Python and preparing reports for important deliverables.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Physics, Applied Math, Applied Statistics, Engineering or closely related field.
• 1+ years of professional experience in data analysis or physics-based modeling.
• Strong foundational skills in C++, MATLAB, or Python.
• Solid grasp of linear algebra, calculus, and basic probability/statistics.
• Willingness to learn complex physical systems and technical documentation.
• Ability to obtain Interim Secret clearance by start date and final Top Secret clearance; U.S. citizenship required.

Responsibilities

• Develop and refine physics models by creating and improving high-fidelity physics-based models of complex systems, including inertial navigation and missile/reentry dynamics.
• Lead the experimental design process for flight and ground tests to optimize data collection for model validation and parameter estimation.
• Perform statistical validation using real-world data to estimate underlying physics-based errors and assess model predictive performance.
• Apply advanced statistical techniques to identify physical properties or errors causing observed effects.
• Build computational frameworks by developing robust tools in C++, MATLAB, or Python for reports and deliverables.
• Assess the accuracy of current strategic weapon systems and support the engineering of future systems.

Skills

Physics-based modeling

Data analysis

Statistical inference

C++

MATLAB

Python

Linear algebra

Calculus

Statistics

Security clearance

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Physics, Applied Math, Applied Statistics, Engineering

Tools

C++

MATLAB

Python

Job description

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) is seeking analysts to support the technical evaluation of national strategic deterrents. You will join a multidisciplinary team of engineers, physicists, and mathematicians to develop high-fidelity physics models and design experiments for data-driven validation.

The role emphasizes building robust computational tools in C++, MATLAB, or Python and preparing reports for important deliverables.