Undersea Acoustic Communications Engineer

Are you an expert in combining wave physics with signal processing and scientific computing to solve complex real-world problems?

Are you searching for an opportunity to apply your skills in a creative and collaborative environment?

We are seeking an acoustic communications engineer or scientist to join a multidisciplinary team developing and evaluating undersea acoustic communication systems. As a member of our team, you will contribute to advancing U.S. Navy capabilities through underwater acoustic communications systems performance prediction and evaluation. You will develop physics-based and signal-level models to support the design and analysis of communication waveforms, algorithms, sensors, and system architectures operating in challenging underwater environments.

• Develop and apply models of underwater acoustic communication and end-to-end system performance
• Conduct trade studies and sensitivity analyses involving channel conditions, hardware limitations, and design parameters
• Analyze laboratory and field-test data and compare measurements with model predictions
• Evaluate and develop new waveforms and processing techniques
• Collaborate with experimental, acoustics, signal-processing, and systems-engineering teams
• Document and communicate technical methods, results, and recommendations

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...

• Have a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Acoustics, Mechanical Engineering, Ocean Engineering, Applied Physics, Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, or a related field
• Have knowledge of digital communications, signal processing, acoustics, or a related area
• Have experience developing models, simulations, algorithms, or scientific computing applications
• Are proficient in MATLAB, Python, or a comparable scientific programming language
• Are able to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team
• Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a 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’ll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...

• Possess a Master’s or PhD degree in a relevant discipline
• Have experience with underwater acoustic communications, sonar, or acoustic signal processing
• Have experience with detection, modulation/demodulation, or channel estimation
• Have knowledge or experience with acoustic propagation modeling
• Have experience collecting or analyzing acoustic communications test data

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 https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration…