Senior AI & Autonomous Systems Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 105,000 - 245,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Education assistance

Retirement contributions

Work-life balance

Job summary

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks PhD-level researchers to advance intelligent autonomous systems and AI-driven capabilities for national security. You will join the Intelligent Combat Platforms Group, contributing to autonomous air platforms, AI wingman concepts, and real‑time collaboration architectures while working with world‑class engineers and scientists.

Ideal candidates have strong software development skills in C++/Python, experience with AI and autonomy, and the

Qualifications

• PhD in STEM required.
• Strong programming skills in C++ and/or Python with knowledge of design patterns.
• Experience with AI and autonomy algorithms.
• Experience with physical systems such as mechanical, aerospace, or robotics (UAS).

Responsibilities

• Collaborate on intelligent control and decision‑making, human‑machine collaboration, and networked systems.
• Prototype and simulate AI systems, develop software for simulation/visualization, and support real‑time demos.
• Work with AI experts and engineers to deliver capabilities to the warfighter.

Skills

C++

Python

Software design patterns

Artificial intelligence

Autonomy algorithms

Education

PhD in STEM

Job description

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks PhD-level researchers to advance intelligent autonomous systems and AI-driven capabilities for national security. You will join the Intelligent Combat Platforms Group, contributing to autonomous air platforms, AI wingman concepts, and real‑time collaboration architectures while working with world‑class engineers and scientists.

Ideal candidates have strong software development skills in C++/Python, experience with AI and autonomy, and the