Space SSA Modeling & Simulation Specialist

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

Job summary

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) is seeking a Space Situational Awareness Analyst to design and run models and simulations that address tracking, estimation, and decision-making under uncertainty. You will prototype algorithms in Python, validate results, and communicate insights to sponsors across national security and civil space communities.

The role requires 2+ years of work in quantitative modeling, strong communication skills, and the ability to obtain TS/SCI clearance.

Qualifications

• MS or PhD in a quantitative field as listed.
• 2+ years building and testing mathematical models, simulations, or algorithms.
• Background in estimation theory, Bayesian inference, or related areas.
• Proficiency with Python for analysis, modeling, simulation, and visualization.
• Ability to articulate results and uncertainty clearly.
• Must be able to obtain TS/SCI level security clearance; U.S. citizenship required.

Responsibilities

• Design and run mathematical models and simulations for tracking, estimation, prediction, uncertainty, and decision-making problems.
• Write Python code to prototype algorithms, evaluate performance, and produce technical results.
• Develop analysis plans, define metrics, run sensitivity studies, and communicate findings.
• Test estimation and decision algorithms, validate results, quantify uncertainty, and explain operational impact.
• Create frameworks to support sensor management, information fusion, and mission planning.
• Collaborate with experts in astrodynamics, sensing, autonomy, and mission operations.
• Contribute methods that improve decision support and mission planning under uncertainty.
• Share results through plots, briefings, reports, and sponsor discussions.

Skills

Mathematical modeling

Estimation theory

Bayesian inference

Clear communication

Problem solving under uncertainty

Security clearance readiness

Education

MS or PhD in Applied Mathematics

Aerospace Engineering

Physics

Statistics/Operations Research

Electrical Engineering/Computer Science

Tools

Python

MATLAB

C++

Job description

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) is seeking a Space Situational Awareness Analyst to design and run models and simulations that address tracking, estimation, and decision-making under uncertainty. You will prototype algorithms in Python, validate results, and communicate insights to sponsors across national security and civil space communities.

The role requires 2+ years of work in quantitative modeling, strong communication skills, and the ability to obtain TS/SCI clearance.