2025 Graduate - Engineer/Scientist - Communication Systems

• Researching solutions and engineering cutting-edge secure communications and networking technologies in support of national security missions.
• Designing, developing, and testing software as part of user interfaces, network protocols, evaluation tools, and more.
• Developing wired and wireless Internet Protocol (IP) network technology, designs, and architectures.
• Evaluating operational networks through experimentation, analysis, laboratory and field testing, and presenting the findings to sponsors.

• Have a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or other related technical degree
• Have experience writing software in Python, MATLAB or other programming languages.
• Can work effectively both independently and in teams and possess strong interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.
• Meet at least two of the following four criteria:
  • Exposure to principles of wired and wireless communications.
  • Experience in communications systems, signal processing, modeling and simulation, evaluation or developmental testing
  • Understanding of computer science fundamentals such as data structures, algorithms, and software best practices.
  • Exposure to fundamentals of networking, including the TCP/IP stack and basic behaviors of the protocols involved.
• Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and are ultimately able to 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.

• Have knowledge of computer network technologies including...
  • Knowledge and interest in networking technologies to include protocols and hardware (e.g., routers and switches)
  • Experience inspecting and evaluating network topologies, traffic flows, and packet structure using tools such as iperf, Wireshark, and nmap.
• Have knowledge of software development including...
  • A strong understanding of modern software development practices and tools, including: version control systems, issue trackers, and test frameworks.
  • Experience developing in in a Linux environment with several of the following languages: Python, JavaScript, Java, C++, C, Bash.
• Have knowledge of communication systems including...
  • Knowledge of wireless technologies such as satellite communications, 5G (and beyond) cellular communications, or High Frequency radio.
  • Experience using software-defined radios (SDRs) and RF test equipment, including spectrum analyzers, signal generators, attenuator banks.
• Hold an active Top Secret or TS/SCI 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. 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 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 www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

APL is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

APL is committed to promoting an innovative environment that embraces diversity, encourages creativity, and supports inclusion of new ideas. In doing so, we are committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accommodations@jhuapl.edu. Only by ensuring that everyone's voice is heard are we empowered to be bold, do great things, and make the world a better place.

The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.