Senior Embedded Systems & Hardware-in--Loop Engineer

Description

Would you be excited to architect complete embedded systems from hardware through firmware to software?

Are you interested in developing advanced hardware‑in‑the‑loop test systems supporting cutting edge optical sensors and mission‑critical defense technologies?

The Electro Optical Seeker and Infrared Systems group (A1F) of the Air and Missile Defense Sector (AMDS) is seeking a Senior Embedded Systems & Hardware‑in‑the‑Loop Engineer to lead the architecture and implementation of complete embedded systems, custom electronics hardware, FPGA firmware, real‑time embedded software, and sophisticated HWIL test systems.

• Lead multi‑disciplinary teams in architecting and developing complete embedded systems from concept through deployment
• Design custom electronics including PCB layouts, FPGA firmware (VHDL/Verilog), and real‑time C++ embedded software
• Develop and integrate real‑time HWIL test systems for advanced missile seekers, optical sensors, and tracking systems
• Design embedded systems around FPGA MPSoC platforms (Xilinx Zynq Ultra Scale+) including carrier boards, Peta Linux OS, drivers, and applications
• Implement real‑time video/image processing pipelines using CUDA, OpenCV, GStreamer, and custom FPGA IP cores
• Interface with advanced sensors (IR/visible cameras, LiDAR, fast steering mirrors, scene projectors) and develop MATLAB/Python analysis tools
• Support field testing, lead design reviews (PDR, CDR), and provide technical leadership and mentoring

• A BS degree in computer engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, or related discipline with 8+ years of experience
• High proficiency in modern C++ (C++11/14/17) with real‑time performance, multi‑threading, and object‑oriented architecture
• Extensive FPGA firmware design experience using VHDL or Verilog (Xilinx Vivado or Intel Quartus)
• Proven embedded systems design experience including hardware schematics, FPGA logic, and embedded software
• Embedded Linux development experience including kernel programming, device drivers (V4L2), and Peta Linux/Yocto
• Experience with video/image processing systems and high‑speed data interfaces (10
  
  GbE, PCIe, Camera Link, DVI)
• MATLAB proficiency and strong electrical engineering fundamentals (digital protocols, signal integrity, power systems)
• Ability to obtain Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and ultimately obtain Secret level clearance; eligibility requires U.S. citizenship

• An MS degree with 10+ years of experience leading technical teams through complete system development life cycles
• GPU programming experience (CUDA/OpenCL), MPSoC architecture expertise (Xilinx Zynq Ultra Scale+), or HWIL scene generation system development
• Background in 6‑DOF simulation, weapon systems (missiles, seekers, interceptors), or RTOS experience (FreeRTOS, VxWorks, Red Hat)
• Image compression implementation (JPEG
  2000, HTJ2K, H.264, H.265) or Python proficiency for test automation
• Flight electronics design experience, precision timing systems (IRIG‑B, GPS, PTP), or optical systems knowledge
• Experience supporting hypersonic programs or high‑speed flight test campaigns
• Active Top Secret and SCI clearance

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 at http://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race,…