Radio Frequency Processing / Sensor Engineer

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

Job summary

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) is seeking a Radio Frequency Processing / Sensor Engineer to develop algorithms and assess the performance of advanced RF sensor systems for defense applications. You will derive requirements, perform trade studies, and lead teams to solve challenging sensor problems in air and missile defense.

Responsibilities include creating physics-based sensor simulations, testing, and validating models while engaging sponsors and contractors.

Qualifications

• BS in Electrical Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Physics, or related field.
• 2+ years of RF simulation/analysis experience.
• Proficiency in MATLAB, C++, or Python.
• Willingness to travel up to 15% and ability to obtain security clearance.
• U.S. citizenship and Secret clearance eligibility by start date.

Responsibilities

• Derive requirements, perform trade studies, and analyze sensor system performance.
• Develop, test, and verify high-fidelity simulations of sensors and environments.
• Represent APL to sponsors and contractors and lead project teams.

Skills

RF signal simulation

MATLAB

C++

Python

Sponsor communications

Education

BS in Electrical Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Physics, or related field

MS or PhD in electrical engineering, applied math, physics, or related field

Job description

Description

Do you love solving crucial, real-world problems related to sensor systems?

Description

Do you love solving crucial, real-world problems related to sensor systems?

Are you a curious and active learner who just wants to know why?

If so, we’re looking for someone like you to join our team!

We are seeking a physicist, mathematician or engineer to help us develop algorithms and assess the performance of the next generation of radio frequency sensor systems for land, air, and sea-launched interceptors. You'll influence the development of powerful sensor algorithms. Dedicated teams have opportunities to tackle vital missile defense challenges. We strive to cultivate an environment of creativity and collaboration and value finding sophisticated solutions to hard problems.

As a Radio Frequency Processing / Sensor Engineer

• Your primary responsibility will be to derive requirements, perform trade studies, and analyze the performance of advanced sensor systems.
• You will develop, implement, test and verify high-fidelity, physics-based simulations of sensors and environments.
• You will act as APL's representative with sponsors and contractors and will lead teams to solve difficult problems in air and missile defense.

Qualifications

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...

• Possess a BS in Electrical Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Physics, or a related field.
• Have 2+ years of experience simulating or analyzing radio frequency signals, environments or sensors
• Are proficient in one or more of the following programming languages: MATLAB, C++, or Python.
• Have demonstrated experience in sponsor and contractor interactions and can communicate sponsor requirements and requests to a team
• Have the willingness to travel up to 15% of the time as needed.
• Hold a Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain clearance beyond Top Secret. 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...

• Possess a MS or PhD in electrical engineering, applied math, physics, or a related field.
• Have experience with radar, radio frequency seekers or missile systems

About Us

Why Work at APL?

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