Senior Radar Systems Engineer — ML, Simulation & RF Analytics

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL); Laurel (NE); On-site; USD 100,000 - 245,000; Full time

Job summary

Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) is seeking an experienced sensor systems engineer with a strong radar background to analyze live data and develop advanced modeling tools. You will collaborate across disciplines to solve mission-critical problems in defense, security, space, and science sectors.

Applicants should have a BS in a relevant STEM field with 5+ years of sensing experience; MS/PhD is preferred. U.S.

Qualifications

• A BS in Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related STEM field with sensor systems engineering experience.
• At least 5 years of engineering experience related to sensing.
• Strong grasp of radar systems and physics-based effects influencing radar/communications performance.
• Familiarity with Python, MATLAB, or similar tools, and exposure to Git/GitLab/Jira workflows.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Willingness to travel up to 5% as needed.
• US citizenship and Interim Secret clearance by start, with potential for Top Secret/SCI access.
• MS/PhD in EE/Physics or related disciplines preferred.
• Experience with advanced DoD sensors and combat systems preferred.
• Existing Top Secret clearance is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Analyze live tactical sensor data with a cross-functional team to deliver mission-focused solutions.
• Identify and resolve issues affecting mission requirements.
• Build and apply modeling/simulation tools, data-analysis platforms, and ML methods to large datasets; develop new algorithms for real-world problems.
• Create and refine physics-based simulations to improve radar, EO/IR, and EW system performance in realistic environments.
• Develop instrumentation and algorithms to understand RF propagation by measuring, recording, and analyzing RF signals.
• Detect emergent phenomenology, troubleshoot sensor-performance issues, and collaborate with a wide network of experts including contractors and government labs.
• Apply machine learning, signal processing, and data science to challenging real-world problems.
• Advance core tech areas such as signal processing, electromagnetics, software development, and boundary-layer meteorology.

Skills

Interpersonal communication

Travel willingness

Python

MATLAB

Git

GitLab

Jira

Education

BS in Electrical Engineering or Physics

MS or PhD in EE/Physics (preferred)

Tools

Python

MATLAB

Git

GitLab

Jira

Job description

Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) is seeking an experienced sensor systems engineer with a strong radar background to analyze live data and develop advanced modeling tools. You will collaborate across disciplines to solve mission-critical problems in defense, security, space, and science sectors.

Applicants should have a BS in a relevant STEM field with 5+ years of sensing experience; MS/PhD is preferred. U.S.