Space Warfighting Modeling and Simulation Engineer

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

Job summary

Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks a Space Warfighting Modeling and Simulation Engineer to develop models, run sophisticated simulations, and assess sensor performance for national security space missions. You will translate complex questions into executable analyses, design experiments, and communicate defensible conclusions to sponsors.

You will use C/C++, Python, MATLAB, and tools like STK, Astrogator, Thermal Desktop, and Creo, collaborating with

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a technical field
• 5+ years of demonstrated experience developing, modifying, executing, and analyzing system- or mission-level simulations
• Experience with programming/scripting languages such as AFSIM Script, Python, MATLAB, Linux/BASH
• Ability to analyze technical data and use modeling/simulation results to answer questions
• Ability to communicate technical approaches to technical and non-technical audiences
• Willingness to travel to sponsor locations
• Self-directed and detail oriented
• Able to obtain TS/SCI clearance (US citizenship)

Responsibilities

• Develop new models and leverage modeling tools for system- and mission-level analyses
• Translate operational questions into simulation studies and executable experiments
• Design and execute modeling experiments, analyze results, and develop defensible conclusions
• Model and assess sensor performance for space missions
• Evaluate performance after hardware/software modifications
• Analyze impact of data latency, sensor performance, and system architecture on mission effectiveness
• Apply C, C++, MATLAB, and Python for modeling and analysis
• Use STK, Astrogator, Thermal Desktop, and Creo for investigations
• Collaborate with technical teams
• Communicate analysis methods and results through briefings and reports
• Expand knowledge of space domain and mission-level modeling

Skills

Modeling and simulation

C/C++

Python

AFSIM scripting

MATLAB

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Physics, Astronomy, Mathematics, Computer Science, or related field

Master's or Ph.D. in Engineering, Physics, Astronomy, Mathematics, Computer Science, or related field

Tools

STK

Astrogator

Thermal Desktop

PTC Creo

Job description

Description

Do you want to apply your expertise in modeling, simulating, and analyzing the capabilities that support national defense?

Do you want to apply your expertise in modeling, simulating, and analyzing the capabilities that support national defense?

Are you motivated by open-ended, difficult modeling tasks that directly impact United States Space Force operations, activities, and investments?

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

The Space Control Systems Group within APL's Space Exploration Sector applies advanced modeling, simulation, and analysis to some of the nation's most challenging national security space problems. Our team brings together expertise in engineering, physics, astronomy, applied mathematics, computer science, and other technical disciplines to assess space control capabilities and inform future operations, technologies, and investments.

Our team explores multiple facets of the Space Control mission, including Space Situational Awareness, Defensive Space Control, and Offensive Space Control. We use modeling and simulation, multi-domain operational planning, tactics and techniques, test and evaluation, threat analysis, performance assessments, space warfighting operations, and force design to evaluate mission effectiveness and address critical operational challenges.

As a Space Warfighting Modeling and Simulation Engineer, you will...

• Develop new models and leverage existing modeling and simulation tools to conduct sophisticated system- and mission-level analyses supporting national security space missions.
• Translate complex operational and technical questions into well-defined simulation studies, analytical approaches, and executable experiments.
• Design and execute modeling and simulation experiments, analyze results, and develop technically defensible conclusions and recommendations.
• Model and assess sensor performance in support of missions such as space object tracking, characterization, and discrimination.
• Evaluate expected system and mission performance resulting from hardware, software, or operational modifications.
• Analyze the impact of factors such as data latency, sensor performance, and system architecture on mission effectiveness.
• Apply programming and computational tools such as C, C++, MATLAB, and Python to develop models, conduct analyses, and evaluate results.
• Leverage modeling and engineering tools such as Systems Tool Kit (STK), Astrogator, Thermal Desktop, and PTC Creo, as appropriate, to support technical investigations.
• Collaborate with technical teams and subject matter experts to explore complex and often open-ended space mission challenges.
• Communicate analysis methods, results, and technical conclusions through briefings, reports, visualizations, and other technical products to internal teams and government sponsors.
• Expand your knowledge of the space domain while developing expertise in mission-level modeling, simulation, and analysis.

Qualifications

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...

• Possess a Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Physics, Astronomy, Mathematics, Computer Science, or a related technical field
• Have 5+ years of demonstrated experience developing, modifying, executing, and analyzing system- or mission-level technical simulations
• Have experience using programming and/or scripting languages such as AFSIM Script, Python, MATLAB, Linux/BASH, or similar tools to support modeling, simulation, and analysis
• Have demonstrated ability to analyze technical data and use modeling and simulation results to answer system- or mission-level questions
• Are able to communicate technical approaches, assumptions, results, and limitations to technical and non‑technical audiences
• Are willing and able to occasionally travel to sponsor locations
• Are self‑directed and detail oriented
• Able to obtain a TS/SCI level security clearance and accesses. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You will go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...

• Possess a Master's or Ph.D. in Engineering, Physics, Astronomy, Mathematics, Computer Science, or related technical field
• Have at least 5 years of hands‑on experience in modeling, simulation, and analysis in support of assessing space systems / weapon systems performance
• Have hands‑on experience with AFSIM scripting, or comparable mission‑level modeling and simulation environments
• Have experience translating analytical or operational questions into simulation studies, designing experiments, evaluating results, and communicating technically defensible conclusions
• Have experience with software‑in‑the‑loop or hardware‑in‑the‑loop simulations
• Have experience in national security space operations, activities, and investments
• Hold a current Top Secret clearance with SCI accesses

About Us

Why Work at 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

$100,000 Annually

Maximum Rate

$245,000 Annually