Weapon Systems Analyst - System Definition & Validation Group

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 85,000 - 195,000; Full time

Job summary

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory in Laurel, Maryland is seeking a Weapon System Analyst to tackle complex challenges in national security. The candidate will work on multidisciplinary teams, support system analyses, and develop knowledge of weapon systems.

The minimum salary is $85,000, and candidates must have a Bachelor's degree in an engineering or technical field with 2+ years of analytical experience.

Qualifications

• Hold a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant technical discipline.
• Possess 2+ years of relevant technical or analytical experience.
• Demonstrate strong problem-solving skills and clear communication.

Responsibilities

• Integrate into multidisciplinary teams for system perspective.
• Support analyses at system and sub-system levels.
• Develop understanding of weapon systems for guidance.

Skills

Problem-solving skills

Quantitative analysis

Communication

Adaptability

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering, computer science, physics, or related field

Job description

Are you eager to join a team tackling some of our Nation’s most compelling security challenges?

Do you have a passion for weapon‑system concepts and a drive to apply analytical thinking to strategic deterrence and national defense?

Would you like to grow your expertise while helping shape the future of America’s most advanced strategic systems?

Do you enjoy working on tough technical problems, learning from seasoned experts, and making a tangible impact? If so, we have the perfect opportunity for you!

The System Definition & Validation Group (KBY) in the Force Projection sector of the JohnsHopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory is seeking motivated analysts, engineers, scientists, mathematicians, statisticians, and systems engineers to fill the role of Weapon System Analyst. The successful candidate will work on complex, multi‑disciplinary problems alongside senior experts, gaining the experience and mentorship needed to become a future leader in strategic‑systems analysis.

Responsibilities

• Integrate into multidisciplinary teams that apply a “whole‑of‑system” perspective and systems‑engineering rigor to shape platforms that meet current and future warfighter requirements.
• Support in‑depth analyses at the system and sub‑system levels, producing data‑driven recommendations that inform design decisions.
• Develop an understanding of how weapon systems function, are tested, operated, and maintained, and how they fit into broader deterrence concepts; translate that knowledge into clear guidance for warfighter employment under senior mentorship.
• Contribute to requirements and architecture reviews, helping evaluate change impacts and safeguard mission performance while learning the fundamentals of system requirements, interfaces, and capabilities.
• Assist in stakeholder engagement, helping navigate expectations and relationships so program leadership can better satisfy warfighter needs.
• Continuously expand knowledge of weapon systems, associated delivery platforms, and the system‑level engineering processes that support them through on‑the‑job training, workshops, and self‑directed study.
• Participate in sponsor‑support trips (up to 2–4 per year, each ≤1 week) and perform local travel for stakeholder meetings as needed.
• Apply emerging models, simulations, and early‑stage assessment tools under the guidance of senior analysts to help accelerate validation and reduce risk.
• Provide fresh perspectives and analytical rigor, leveraging your technical background to challenge assumptions and contribute innovative ideas.

Minimum qualifications

• Hold a Bachelor’s degree in engineering, computer science, physics, applied mathematics, or a related technical discipline.
• Possess 2+ years of relevant technical or analytical experience (e.g., work on complex engineering projects, systems analysis, data‑driven modeling, or operational research). Experience does not have to be on weapon systems; strong analytical ability and a demonstrated capacity to learn new domains are essential.
• Demonstrate strong problem‑solving skills, quantitative analysis capabilities, and the ability to communicate technical concepts clearly both in writing and orally.
• Exhibit the right attributes for growth – curiosity, adaptability, teamwork, and a drive to develop deep weapon‑system expertise.
• Are able to obtain Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain Top 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.

Additional experience that will exceed our minimum requirements

• Advanced coursework or graduate‑level study (M.S. or Ph.D.) in a relevant technical field.
• Prior exposure to weapon‑system concepts (e.g., missiles, bombers, hypersonics, or comparable high‑technology platforms) through internships, research projects, or early‑career roles.
• Experience conducting trade‑studies, requirements analysis, or system‑level modeling in any engineering domain.
• Familiarity with high‑fidelity simulation or model‑based systems engineering tools.
• An active Top‑Secret clearance.

Pay and benefits

Minimum Rate: $85,000 Annually

Maximum Rate: $195,000 Annually

EEO Statement

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].