Senior Data Fusion and Tracking Systems Engineer

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

Benefits offered by this job

Education assistance program

Retirement contributions

Work-life balance

Job summary

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) is seeking a Senior Data Fusion and Tracking Systems Engineer to advance tracking and data fusion capabilities for national defense.

You will develop, evaluate, and refine algorithms across multi-sensor inputs, working with DoD sponsors and multidisciplinary teams to deliver robust solutions in complex environments.

Qualifications

• BS in mathematics, applied mathematics, EE, CS, physics, stats, systems engineering or related field.
• 5+ years developing and evaluating tracking and data fusion algorithms.
• Experience with MATLAB, Python, C/C++, Julia or similar.
• Strong written and verbal communication for briefings.
• Willing to travel up to 10% and hold active security clearances.

Responsibilities

• Develop, evaluate, and improve advanced tracking/data fusion algorithms via modeling, simulation, analysis, and test data assessment.
• Evaluate tracking algorithms within complex systems to identify limitations and design improvements.
• Design and conduct technical studies for algorithmic proof-of-concept and recommendations.
• Analyze tracking performance, sensor information, and algorithm effectiveness using tools.
• Collaborate with government sponsors and internal teams to solve complex problems.

Skills

Multi-target tracking

Multi-sensor data fusion

Data association and correlation

State estimation

Kalman filtering

Education

Bachelor's degree in a technical field

MS/PhD preferred

Tools

MATLAB

Python

C/C++

Julia

Job description

Description

Are you excited about applying your knowledge, skills, and talents to solve some of the nation's most complex defense challenges?

Would you like to develop innovative tracking and data fusion capabilities that directly support our nation's warfighters and influence the next generation of air and missile defense systems?

If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.

The Multi-Domain Sensing Architectures and Data Fusion Group develops advanced sensing, tracking, and data fusion algorithms that enable next-generation air and missile defense capabilities. Our team specializes in solving challenging tracking problems by integrating information from multiple sensor modalities to create robust capabilities that perform in complex and contested environments. We combine expertise in tracking algorithms, data fusion, modeling and simulation, and systems analysis to develop innovative technical solutions for Department of Defense sponsors. Through collaboration, technical excellence, and innovation, we deliver mission-critical capabilities while fostering an environment where our staff can grow as technical leaders.

In this role, you'll have the opportunity to:

• Develop next-generation tracking and data fusion capabilities supporting critical national security missions.
• Solve challenging multi-sensor tracking problems using advanced algorithm development, modeling, and analysis.
• Collaborate directly with Department of Defense sponsors and multidisciplinary technical teams.
• Lead technical studies that influence future tracking system capabilities.
• Mentor and collaborate with talented engineers in a highly technical, mission-focused environment.

As a Senior Data Fusion and Tracking Systems Engineer, you will:

• Develop, evaluate, and improve advanced tracking and data fusion algorithms through modeling, simulation, analysis, and test data assessment.
• Evaluate tracking algorithms within complex systems and system-of-systems architectures to identify performance limitations and recommend design improvements.
• Design and conduct technical studies to develop algorithmic proof-of-concept capabilities and quantitative recommendations for future system designs.
• Analyze tracking performance, sensor information, and algorithm effectiveness using modeling, simulation, and data analysis tools.
• Collaborate with internal teams, government sponsors, and external organizations to solve challenging technical problems involving tracking and data fusion.
• Develop and present technical analyses, recommendations, and briefing materials to sponsors and other key stakeholders.
• Contribute to the technical direction of tracking and data fusion efforts while mentoring junior staff and fostering technical excellence.

Qualifications

You meet our minimum qualifications if you:

• Possess a BS in mathematics, applied mathematics, electrical engineering, computer science, physics, statistics, systems engineering, or a related technical field.
• Have 5+ years of experience developing and evaluating tracking and data fusion algorithms and systems, including identifying and resolving algorithmic or system design issues.
• Have demonstrated expertise in one or more of the following:
  • Multi-target tracking
  • Multi-sensor data fusion
  • Data association and correlation
  • State estimation
  • Kalman filtering
  • Multiple Hypothesis Tracking (MHT)
  • Joint Probabilistic Data Association (JPDA)
  • Track initiation and maintenance
  • Track-level or distributed data fusion
  • Characterization of sensor information
  • Common tracking measures of performance
• Have experience developing and evaluating tracking algorithms through modeling, simulation, analysis, and test data assessment using MATLAB, Python, C/C++, Julia, or similar scientific programming languages.
• Have strong written and verbal communication skills, with experience creating and delivering technical briefings for government sponsors and other external organizations.
• Are willing and able to travel up to 10% of the time, as needed.
• Hold an active Secret security clearance and are able to obtain a TS/SCI clearance. U.S. citizenship is required.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum qualifications if you:

• Possess an MS or PhD in applied mathematics, electrical engineering, statistics, computer science, physics, systems engineering, or a related technical field.
• Have 7+ years of experience developing, evaluating, and leading technical efforts involving advanced tracking and data fusion algorithms and systems.
• Have experience applying tracking algorithms to radar, EO/IR, or other sensing systems supporting air and missile defense applications.
• Have experience conducting modeling and simulation, verification and validation, and performance assessments of tracking algorithms within end-to-end systems or system-of-systems architectures.
• Have experience leading technical studies, mentoring junior staff, and influencing the technical direction of multidisciplinary engineering efforts.
• Have experience collaborating directly with Department of Defense sponsors and presenting technical analyses and recommendations to senior government stakeholders.
• Hold an active Top Secret security clearance and are able to obtain a TS/SCI clearance.

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. 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.

Why Work at APL?

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