Space Situational Awareness Analyst Security Clearance

Position: Space Situational Awareness Analyst with Security Clearance
Location: Laurel

Description Do you love building models that answer some of the toughest questions in space operations? Are you energized by developing simulations, testing new algorithms, and seeing your work directly influence mission success? Do you enjoy turning ambiguous, real-world problems into algorithms, models, and actionable insights that influence mission decisions? If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL!

The Space Analysis and Technologies (SAT) Group within APL's Space Exploration Sector develops advanced analytical methods, modeling and simulation capabilities, and decision-support tools that help solve some of the nation's most challenging space mission problems. Our multidisciplinary team combines expertise in applied mathematics, estimation theory, astrodynamics, autonomy, sensing, and software development to deliver innovative solutions for sponsors across the national security and civil space communities.

We thrive on tackling complex, ambiguous problems, collaborating across technical disciplines, and turning rigorous analysis into mission impact. We're looking for someone who likes turning incomplete space situational awareness problems into working models and clear answers. You'll spend your time building simulations, testing estimation and decision methods, and helping teams understand what the results mean for real missions.

If you enjoy building quantitative tools that help people make better decisions about what's happening in space, we'd like to hear from you! As a Space Situational Awareness Analyst you will...
* Design and run mathematical models and simulations for tracking, estimation, prediction, uncertainty, and decision-making problems

* Write Python code to prototype algorithms, evaluate performance, and produce clear technical results

* Develop analysis plans for open questions, define metrics, run sensitivity studies, and communicate findings

* Test estimation and decision algorithms, validate results, quantify uncertainty, and explain operational impact

* Create frameworks that support sensor management, information fusion, and mission planning

* Work with experts in astrodynamics, sensing, autonomy, and mission operations

* Contribute methods that improve decision support and mission planning under uncertainty

* Share results through plots, briefings, short reports, and direct discussion with teams and sponsors Qualifications You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you possess...
* MS or PhD in Applied Mathematics, Aerospace Engineering, Physics, Statistics, Operations Research, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related quantitative field

* 2+ years of professional experience building and testing mathematical models, simulations, or algorithms

* Background in one or more of: estimation theory, Bayesian inference, statistical signal processing, decision theory, optimization, probability and statistics, stochastic processes, or uncertainty quantification

* Proficiency with Python for analysis, modeling, simulation, and visualization

* Ability to take an incomplete problem, make reasonable assumptions, run the analysis, and explain both the results and the uncertainty

* Clear written and verbal communication skills

* Are able to obtain TS/SCI level security 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 go above and beyond the minimum qualifications if you have...
* PhD in a relevant quantitative field

* Experience applying estimation, inference, optimization, or decision analysis to space situational awareness or space domain awareness problems

* Experience with Kalman filtering, nonlinear estimation, multi-target tracking, orbit determination, sensor fusion, sensor management, information theory, optimal control, or partially observable decision processes

* Experience running sensitivity studies, Monte Carlo analyses, trade studies, or algorithm evaluations

* Experience with C++ or MATLAB for scientific computing

* Experience or interest in decision-making methods for autonomous space systems

* Experience presenting analytical results through visualizations, concise writing, and sponsor briefings

* Active Secret clearance or higher About Us 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…