PhD Graduate – Weapon Systems Modeling and Analysis Engineer

Recruitment began on December 4, 2025

and the job listing Expires on January 4, 2026

Are you passionate about improving Precision Strike capabilities for the United States warfighter?

Do you love solving complex problems with sophisticated modeling and simulation (M&S) tools?

If you are graduating with a PhD degree in Aerospace Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, Mathematics, or another engineering field and want to study the survivability of missile systems, we’d love to have you join our team!

We are seeking a weapon systems modeling and analysis engineer to help us develop, characterize, and evaluate missile performance against precision strike platforms in complex environments. We are a multi talented and hardworking team of analysts and engineers who support a wide range of government sponsors who have many exciting technical problems. Our team conducts high fidelity physics-based modeling while collaborating with authorities in other fields including: GN&C, RF / IR Engineering, Electronic Warfare, Software Development, Systems Engineering and more!

As a member of our team, you will:

• Develop and use physics-based models and simulations to assess the effectiveness and optimal employment of both legacy and innovative U.S. strike missiles in 1-v-1 and 1-v-few scenarios
• Analyze driving factors behind strike system performance
• Collaborate with a multi-disciplinary team to use, develop and improve modeling capabilities and missile models
• Build and leverage novel data visualization tools for large and complex data sets
• Prepare and present formal documentation to technical specialists, operational partners, and government sponsors
• Collaborate with mission-level analysts and inform their modeling efforts

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you…

• Have a PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, Mathematics, or another engineering field
• Have experience with data processing languages such as MATLAB and Python
• Have experience using physics-based simulations and investigating the driving factors behind performance
• Have experience solving complex problems using rigorous and documented processes
• Are willing, able and passionate about learning missile systems concepts to improve modeling and simulation tools and to perform engagement-level analysis
• Are able to obtain an 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.

You will go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you…

• Have experience in the modeling and simulation of surface-to-air and/or air-to-air missiles
• Have knowledge of software design best practices, including a solid understanding of object-oriented programming principles.
• Have experience with Simulink, Fortran, or C++
• Have experience working with software versioning systems such as Git or SVN
• Have experience working with external customers and partners
• Hold an active final Secret level security clearance

Special Working Conditions: Limited air and vehicle travel to U.S. Government and Department of Defense contractor facilities.

Why Work at APL?

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…