Graduate - Engineer​/Analyst - System Modeling, Evaluation, and Planning

Overview

2026 Graduate - Engineer/Analyst - System Modeling, Evaluation, and Planning at Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Base pay range: $85,000.00/yr - $/yr

Are you interested in applying your STEM background to strategic deterrence and defense? Are you interested in defining methodologies that will be used for mission planning and test and evaluation of current and future weapon systems? Do you like contributing to complex efforts that require team-based approaches? If you are graduating with a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in math, physics, engineering, or computer science, we’re looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.

The System Modeling, Evaluation, and Planning Group is seeking Weapon System Analysts and Software Engineers to assess the planning and evaluation of the nation’s primary strategic deterrents. You will join a hardworking team of engineers, physicists, and mathematicians who are passionate about their role as an independent evaluator for the nation’s strategic systems. We strive to foster an environment of innovation and learning to develop the critical technologies and experts of the future.

• Learn about the principals of inertial navigation systems, including accelerometers and gyroscopes, and leverage data collected during flight tests and ground tests to estimate the underlying, physics-based errors in these systems
• Learn about the dynamics of missile systems, reentry systems, and their associated fuzing mechanisms, and leverage data collected during flight tests and ground tests to estimate the underlying, physics-based errors in these systems
• Evaluate system-level accuracy of current strategic weapon systems and support the design and engineering of future systems to meet mission needs
• Apply artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data fusion methodologies to complex, real-world problems and build robust computational frameworks to support advanced data-centric analyses
• Advance the state of the art in mission planning by developing software and implementing vehicle dynamics models for new and prototype weapon systems
• Develop operational concepts for new weapon systems that leverage advances in estimation and optimization
• Function as part of a multi-disciplinary team to analyze the nuclear survivability of strategic weapon systems and structures

• Have a Bachelor’s degree in Math, Physics, Engineering, Computer Science, Data Science, or a related field
• Are familiar with software development and implementation
• Are familiar with data analysis and associated computational challenges
• Are inquisitive and are willing to learn new skills and expand your capabilities
• Are able to obtain Interim Secret level security clearance by 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.

• A Master’s degree in Math, Physics, Engineering, Computer Science, Data Science, or a related field
• Statistical analysis, parameter estimation and inverse problems, Kalman filtering, or maximum likelihood estimation using Fisher information
• Linear systems and optimization methods
• Prior experience with tactical or strategic missile systems
• Developing software in C++ or other object-oriented programming languages
• SQL, Database design and administration
• Model-based engineering applications such as DOORs, Cameo, and SysML
• Knowledge of High Energy Particle Physics, Thermal Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Physics, Nuclear Engineering, Nuclear Weapon Effects, or Plasma Physics
• Hold an active Secret or higher level clearance

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. 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. We celebrate differences of perspectives and encourage…