Thermal Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 105,000 - 245,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits package

Education assistance

Flexible spending accounts

Job summary

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, MD, is seeking an experienced aerospace engineer to develop and validate thermal and material response models for high-temperature systems. You'll work closely with cross-discipline teams, execute ground test activities, and guide engineering projects critical to national defense.

The ideal candidate possesses a BS in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering and has over seven years of hands-on experience in thermal analyses. Applicants must be able to obtain a security clearance. Competitive compensation includes salary ranging from $105,000 to $245,000 annually, with comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• Minimum seven years of experience in thermal/aerothermal analyses for vehicle design.
• Understanding of vehicle-level thermal integration and design trade-offs.
• Ability to translate complex concepts into actionable recommendations.

Responsibilities

• Develop and validate thermal models for high-temperature systems.
• Perform analysis for design cycle decisions on missile systems.
• Plan and execute ground tests for model validation.

Skills

Thermal/aerothermal analysis

Mechanical Engineering

Aerospace Engineering

Computational Fluid Dynamics

Communication skills

Education

BS in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering

Job description

Overview

Are you ready to put your aerospace and thermal engineering skills to work, solving critical challenges related to the defense of our nation and our service members?

Responsibilities

• Develop and validate thermal, aerothermal and material response models for high-temperature systems and thermal protection materials.
• Perform analysis at varying levels of fidelity, using a range of tools, to evaluate and guide decisions during all phases of the design cycle for missile and related systems.
• Plan and execute ground test activities to validate thermal and aerothermal models, characterize material/system performance, and support design verification and qualification.
• Collaborate with cross-discipline teams to solve engineering problems critical to the nation’s defense.
• Help guide programs to successful outcomes with clear communication to APL partners and sponsors.

Qualifications

• Possess a BS in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a closely related technical area.
• Have at least seven years of progressive, hands-on experience in thermal/aerothermal analyses supporting vehicle design and development.
• Demonstrate understanding of vehicle-level thermal integration, including interface definition, requirements development, and design trade-offs.
• Demonstrate ability to translate complex engineering concepts and results into clear, actionable recommendations and risk assessments.
• Have strong communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Possess understanding of one or more related fields. These include but are not limited to computational fluid dynamics (CFD), aerodynamics, structures, propulsion, materials science, etc.
• Are able to obtain an Interim Secret security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Secret level clearance. 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.

About Us

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation’s most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. 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. APL’s campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

EEO and Accessibility

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].

Compensation and Benefits

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
$105,000 Annually

Maximum Rate
$245,000 Annually