Senior NLCC Communication Systems Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory; Arlington (VA); On-site; USD 105,000 - 290,000; Full time

Job summary

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks a Senior NLCC Communications Systems Engineer to lead and shape NLCC communications solutions. You will provide systems engineering support and represent APL in executive and policy discussions, working with DoD leadership and interagency partners.

The role requires a top‑secret clearance or eligibility, 10+ years in DoD C2 or communications projects, and willingness to travel to Laurel, MD and other government sites.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Systems Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
• At least ten years of relevant experience leading and managing DoD command and control or communications projects.
• Excellent oral and written communication and presentation skills; able to lead small/medium teams.
• Willing to travel to Laurel, MD for periodic meetings and up to 5% to government sites.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical expertise, analysis, and systems engineering support for NLCC, including SLC3S in meetings, working groups, and reviews.
• Provide full-time onsite support at the Pentagon.
• Support development of information services and communications capabilities for NLCC.
• Develop communications implementation plans and related policies, roadmaps, and architectures.
• Develop concepts of operations and technical transition plans; brief DoD leadership and interagency forums; produce white papers and briefings.

Skills

Leadership

DoD experience

Security clearance

Communications systems

Travel readiness

Education

Bachelor’s degree in related field

Master’s degree or PhD

Job description

Description

Do you have experience leading people and an interest in shaping U.S. National Leadership Command Capability (NLCC) communications technology solutions? Are you passionate about using innovation and technology to solve technical challenges involving the strategic defense of the US? If so, we’re looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.

As a Senior NLCC Communications Systems Engineer, you will…

• Provide technical expertise, analysis, and systems engineering support for the NLCC to include the Senior Leadership Command, Control and Communications System (SLC3S) in technical interchange meetings, technical and policy development working groups, and program reviews.
• Provide full‑time onsite support at the Pentagon.
• Provide technical and analytical support for the development of information services and communications capabilities in support of the NLCC construct.
• Provide technical and analytical support for development of communications implementation plans.
• Support the development of policies, guidance, roadmaps, capability architectures, and strategic approaches for modernization of NLCC information services and communications.
• Support the development of concepts of operations and technical transition plans.
• Support the development of briefings and presentations to senior DoD leadership and interagency forums.
• Provide quick‑reaction analysis and support to include review and development of white papers, bullet/point papers, briefings and slides.

Qualifications

• Possess a Bachelor’s degree in Systems Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or another related field.
• Have at least ten years of relevant experience leading and managing tasks associated with DoD command and control or communications projects.
• Are able to examine and analyze problems outside one’s core area of expertise.
• Have excellent oral and written communication and presentation skills; ability to effectively lead and work within small or medium teams.
• Are able to represent APL effectively at the Senior Executive Service and Flag Officer level.
• Are willing and able to travel to Laurel, MD for periodic meetings.
• Are willing and able to travel up to 5% of the time to government sites and contractor facilities (local and non‑local) for periodic meetings.
• Hold an active Top Secret security clearance and can ultimately obtain a TS/SCI level clearance. Eligibility requires U.S. citizenship.

Additional Qualifications

• Have a Master’s degree or PhD in Systems Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent.
• Have at least fifteen years of relevant technical experience, including a strong background in NLCC, SLC3S, and DoD acquisition.
• Have knowledge of DoD command and control enabling capabilities and systems.
• Have experience working on and leading efforts for the Department of Defense.
• Hold an active TS/SCI clearance.

About 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

$105,000 Annually

Maximum Rate

$290,000 Annually