Missile Conceptual Design Engineer
Listed on 2026-06-04
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Engineering
Aerospace / Aviation / Avionics, Mechanical Engineer
Description
Are you looking for exciting opportunities to develop innovative solutions to redefine the design, analysis, and optimization of the next generation of missile systems in air and missile defense?
Would you like to work with a group of highly educated and skilled Engineers and Scientists?
Do you have a passion for finding solutions to current and emerging needs of the Department of Defense (DoD) and Intelligence Community (IC)?
If so, then we're looking for someone like you to join the Multidisciplinary Design Optimization team as a missile system conceptual design engineer at APL.
ResponsibilitiesAs a Missile Conceptual Design Engineer, you will:
- Collaborate on the development of groundbreaking multidisciplinary design optimization (MDO/MDAO) tools for the conceptual design of aerospace vehicles with a focus on missiles.
- Perform a variety of analysis tasks related to vehicle design, including system sizing, vehicle configuration and design, flight/mission performance, and trajectory optimization.
- Conduct vehicle design optimization, trade, and sensitivity studies to derive system level requirements, conduct feasibility studies and performance predictions, and identify promising technology investments.
- Contribute to concept development of next generation missile/weapon systems, including system-of-systems considerations.
- Develop and apply state of the art physics-based and empirical models and simulations for conceptual design.
- Help guide technical programs to successful outcomes with clear communication to APL partners and sponsors.
Note:
This job summary and listing of duties is for the purpose of describing the position and its essential functions at time of hire and may change over time.
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you have …
- A B.S. degree in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering, or related subject area
- Minimum of 5+ years of related professional experience, including conceptual vehicle design
- Focused experience in at least one system or sub-system level discipline (e.g. airframe design, solid/liquid propulsion, aerodynamics, GNC, seekers, trajectory optimization, etc.) and familiarity with aerospace vehicles.
- Experience with developing MDO analysis tools/frameworks
- Experience with engineering models and simulations
- Familiarity with MATLAB programming techniques to solve engineering problems
- An understanding of aerospace vehicle flight dynamics, propulsion systems, vehicle size/weight estimation techniques
- The ability to work both independently and as part of a team, with a history of significant contributions to multidisciplinary teams solving engineering design problems
- Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a TS/SCI 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.
You 'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you have …
- An M.S. in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering, with research experience
- An understanding of vehicle conceptual design
- Experience in MDO/MDAO techniques and software
- Experience with numerical optimization algorithms and problem formulation
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 http://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..
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