Sr. Cyber AI Operations Researcher

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

Job summary

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory is seeking a Senior Cyber AI Operations Researcher in Laurel, Maryland. This role requires leadership in developing innovative cyber AI solutions for national security challenges. The ideal candidate possesses a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field and 6+ years of experience in cyber operations.

With a competitive salary ranging from $105,000 to $290,000 annually, this position offers an impactful opportunity to lead teams in cutting-edge AI research and applications for defense.

Qualifications

• 6+ years of experience in cyber AI defense and network operation strategy.
• Active Secret clearance, eligible for Top Secret clearance.
• Demonstrated leadership in cyber operations.

Responsibilities

• Provide subject-matter expertise in Cyber AI Operations.
• Evaluate and develop requirements for cyber AI programs.
• Build partnerships across APL and the research community.

Skills

Cyber AI Operations

Leadership

Cyber Security

Technical Integration

Networking

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Cyber Security, Computer Science, AI/Machine Learning, Physics, Engineering

Job description

Are you passionate about leading teams building solutions for our greatest national security challenges? Are you searching for engaging work with an employer that prioritizes impact, innovation, and personal development? If so, we are looking for someone like you to join our team in the Analytic Capabilities group of the Asymmetric Operations Sector.

We are seeking a project and technical leader to guide teams of engineers and software developers prototyping and operationalizing state‑of‑the‑art AI solutions for a variety of domains, including, but not limited to, cyber operations and information operations.

The candidate should have in‑depth experience with cyber AI integration, rapid and deliberate planning, historical analysis, and problem framing. The candidate will develop strategy for integrating and testing network security and situational awareness programs/tools.

Senior Cyber AI Operations Researcher – Responsibilities

• Provide subject‑matter expertise in Cyber AI Operations and Mission Assurance; develop innovative prototype solutions for DoD and IC customers by blending the latest research and industry best practices.
• Evaluate and develop requirements to support current and planned deployment of cyber AI programs and tools.
• Explore promising new AI/ML research and maintain/gain technical edge required for projects.
• Build partnerships with scientists and engineers across APL, other divisions of JHU, and the wider research community.

Qualifications – Minimum

• Hold a Bachelor’s degree in Cyber Security, Computer Science, AI/Machine Learning, Physics, Engineering, or other relevant technical field.
• Have at least six years of experience guiding and/or leading cyber AI defense and network operation strategy and policy.
• Demonstrate leadership of teams in cyber operations.
• Hold an active Secret clearance and be eligible for a Top Secret clearance. U.S. citizenship is required.

Qualifications – Preferred

• Experience with integrating full‑spectrum cyber AI operations (network operations, defensive cyberspace operations, and offensive cyberspace operations) and conventional military operations (kinetic, information, and electronic warfare).
• Experience working with DoD and/or IC customers.
• Hold an active Top Secret clearance.

Compensation

Minimum Rate: $105,000 Annually

Maximum Rate: $290,000 Annually

Equal Opportunity Employer

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].