Real-time Tactical Software Engineer

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 85,000 - 195,000; Full time

Job summary

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) is seeking a Real-time Tactical Software Engineer to join our Distributed Tactical Awareness and Decision-Making Group. You will prototype, test, and integrate software across concept definition, algorithm design, implementation, and verification for missile defense and sensor fusion challenges.

You will design and implement robust real-time software with C++ and scripting support, participate in automated testing and CI, and

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related technical field.
• 2+ years of experience in software development.
• Experience with object-oriented software languages (C++ preferred).
• Experience using scripting languages (Python preferred).
• Familiar with DevOps toolchains (e.g., Gitlab).
• Willing to travel to sponsor sites for test events and data collection.
• Able to obtain Interim Secret clearance and eventually Secret clearance; U.S. citizenship required.

Responsibilities

• Actively work with users and engineers to understand needs and use cases.
• Design software to meet those needs.
• Communicate proposed solutions with a team.
• Implement and test software solutions.
• Improve real-time systems through refactoring and adding capabilities.
• Develop prototype software for concept design and exploration.
• Apply modern software methodologies including automated testing, CI, rapid iteration, design thinking.
• Document designs, implementations, and results through reports and reviews.
• Create testable, extensible, and maintainable software.

Skills

OO languages (C++ preferred)

Python scripting (preferred)

DevOps tooling (Gitlab)

Travel readiness

Security clearance eligibility

Education

Bachelor's degree in CS/Engineering/related field

Advanced degree (preferred)

Tools

Gitlab

Job description

Description

Do you want to rapidly prototype real-time software solutions to complex problems while maintaining scalable, extensible design?

Do you want to work on all aspects of bringing software to life, including concept definition, algorithm design, implementation, and testing?

Are you motivated by defending our nation against air, ballistic missile, and hypersonic threats?

If so, we would like you to join our team!

In the Distributed Tactical Awareness and Decision-Making Group, we design, prototype, and test software systems to solve command and control challenges related to sensor integration, information fusion, and distributed kill chains for missile defense. We are seeking a motivated software engineer with a versatile skillset to join our team and contribute to multiple projects spanning the entire product life-cycle.

As a Real-time Tactical Software Engineer you will...

• Actively work with users and engineers to understand their needs and use cases
• Design software to meet said needs
• Communicate proposed solutions with a team
• Implement and test solutions in software
• Improve real-time tactical systems through refactoring and addition of new capabilities
• Develop prototype software solutions for concept design and exploration
• Take advantage of modern software development methodologies including automated testing, continuous integration, rapid iteration, design thinking, and more
• Communicate designs, implementation, and results through reports, peer reviews, and presentations in a friendly team environment
• Design and implement software that is testable, extensible, and maintainable

Qualifications

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

• Have a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related technical field
• Have 2+ years of experience in software development
• Have experience with object-oriented software languages (C++ preferred)
• Have experience using one or more scripting languages (Python preferred)
• Are familiar with using common DevOps toolchains (e.g. Gitlab)
• Are willing to continually learn new programming languages, software frameworks, and practices.
• Are able to occasionally travel to sponsor sites for test events and data collection
• Are able to obtain Interim Secret by your start date and can ultimately obtain Secret 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...

• Hold an advanced degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a similar field
• Have experience designing real-time software in C++
• Are comfortable working with and designing concurrent software
• Have experience with combat systems, radar, other tactical sensors, or tactical networks
• Have experience working with target tracking systems or algorithms
• Have experience with SysML/UML and Model-Based Systems Engineering
• Hold an active Secret clearance

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

$85,000 Annually

Maximum Rate

$195,000 Annually