Strategic Weapon Systems Analyst for Deterrence

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

Job summary

Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks versatile analysts, engineers, scientists, and systems engineers to become Weapons Systems Analysts in the KBY group. You will join multi-disciplinary teams delivering whole‑of‑system analyses for deterrence platforms and warfighter concepts, under senior mentorship.

You will analyze system-level performance, support requirement reviews, and engage stakeholders to ensure mission success.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, computer science, physics, applied mathematics, or related technical discipline.
• 2+ years of relevant technical, operational, systems, or analytical experience.
• Strong problem-solving, quantitative analysis, and clear communication skills.
• Curiosity, adaptability, teamwork, and drive to develop weapon-system expertise.
• Active Secret clearance by start date, potential for Top Secret.

Responsibilities

• Integrate into multidisciplinary teams applying a whole-of-system perspective to shape platforms meeting warfighter requirements.
• Perform in-depth analyses at system and sub-system levels, delivering data-driven recommendations.
• Develop understanding of weapon systems, testing, operation, and maintenance, translating knowledge into guidance for warfighter employment.
• Contribute to requirements and architecture reviews, evaluating change impacts and safeguarding mission performance.
• Assist stakeholder engagement to navigate expectations and satisfy warfighter needs.
• Expand knowledge of weapon systems and delivery platforms through training and self-study.
• Participate in sponsor-support trips (2–4 per year, ≤1 week each) and local travel for meetings.
• Apply models, simulations, and early-stage assessment tools under supervision to accelerate validation and reduce risk.
• Provide fresh perspectives and analytical rigor to challenge assumptions and contribute ideas.

Skills

Problem solving

Quantitative analysis

Communication

Teamwork

Adaptability

Security clearance

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering, CS, physics, or applied math

MS/PhD in a relevant field (preferred)

Tools

MBSE tools

Job description

Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks versatile analysts, engineers, scientists, and systems engineers to become Weapons Systems Analysts in the KBY group. You will join multi-disciplinary teams delivering whole‑of‑system analyses for deterrence platforms and warfighter concepts, under senior mentorship.

You will analyze system-level performance, support requirement reviews, and engage stakeholders to ensure mission success.