RF 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 an RF systems expert to join the Applied Technologies and Threat Engineering Group in Laurel, MD. You will engage in system-level RF analysis, threat evaluation, and the development of non-kinetic engagement strategies for missile defense.

Responsibilities include testing novel RF concepts, kill chain integration, and potential design work on RF hardware, SDR, amplifiers, and antennas.

Qualifications

• B.S. degree in Electrical Engineering, Math, Physics, or related fields.
• At least 4 years of experience in high power microwave systems, electronic warfare systems, RF systems, or a related field.
• Experience with a programming language such as MATLAB, Python, C, C++, Java, or similar.
• Ability to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by the start date and ultimately obtain a TS/SCI level clearance. Eligibility requires U.S. citizenship.

Responsibilities

• Perform system-level RF analysis, including link budgets, propagation effects, and lethality assessments.
• Evaluate lethality and effectiveness of RF, EW, and HPM systems against air and missile threats through experimentation, simulation, and analysis.
• Propose, analyze, and test novel RF concepts at the system level, novel waveforms, new hardware designs, etc.
• Understand kill chain integration of RF, EW, and HPM systems, working with systems engineers, combat system experts, and sensor experts to evaluate performance such as end-to-end mission modeling, technical concept design, requirements definition, development phases, and technical reviews.
• As needed, perform software defined radio, analog, RF circuit, amplifier, and/or antenna design, simulation, development, and test. Duties may include component development, system development, and test design and implementation.

Skills

MATLAB

Python

C

C++

Java

Education

B.S. in Electrical Engineering, Math, Physics

Job description

Job Summary

Would you like to be part of a team that is revolutionizing modern warfare and pushing boundaries in the art of the possible? Join us to become an expert in RF systems, including Electronic Warfare and High Power Microwave systems, and develop non‑kinetic engagement strategies for missile defense.

The Applied Technologies and Threat Engineering Group develops non‑kinetic engagement strategies by combining a detailed understanding of threat systems (ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and similar systems) with non‑kinetic technologies. You will work with a team of engineers and scientists who are subject‑matter experts in RF defeat to develop, test, and assess various advanced technologies for missile defense.

Responsibilities

• Perform system‑level RF analysis, including link budgets, propagation effects, and lethality assessments.
• Evaluate lethality and effectiveness of RF, EW, and HPM systems against air and missile threats through experimentation, simulation, and analysis.
• Propose, analyze, and test novel RF concepts at the system level, novel waveforms, new hardware designs, etc.
• Understand kill chain integration of RF, EW, and HPM systems, working with systems engineers, combat system experts, and sensor experts to evaluate performance such as end‑to‑end mission modeling, technical concept design, requirements definition, development phases, and technical reviews.
• As needed, perform software defined radio, analog, RF circuit, amplifier, and/or antenna design, simulation, development, and test. Duties may include component development, system development, and test design and implementation.

Qualifications

• B.S. degree in Electrical Engineering, Math, Physics, or related fields.
• At least 4 years of experience in high power microwave systems, electronic warfare systems, RF systems, or a related field.
• Experience with a programming language such as MATLAB, Python, C, C++, Java, or similar.
• Ability to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by the start date and ultimately obtain a TS/SCI level clearance. Eligibility requires U.S. citizenship.

Preferred Qualifications

• M.S. in science or engineering, or equivalent experience.
• Skilled in or knowledgeable about RF propagation, system design, or testing.
• Previous academic or professional experience developing, testing, or modeling EW or HPM weapon systems and their effectiveness.
• Experience with software defined radios, especially in EW applications.
• Experience designing and executing conducted and radiated RF experiments, including scripting instrument control, data collection and documentation.
• Prior warfighter experience.
• An active TS/SCI security clearance. Eligibility requires U.S. citizenship.

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. Our culture encourages creativity and bold new ideas, and we offer 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.

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].

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

Minimum Rate

$100,000 Annually

Maximum Rate

$245,000 Annually