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Intelligent Combat Platform Mission Engineer

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory
life insurance, paid time off
United States, Maryland, Laurel
11100 Johns Hopkins Road (Show on map)
Jun 05, 2025
Description

Are you interested in working in multi-disciplinary teams to advance the state-of-the-art in autonomous systems, uncrewed air platforms, artificial intelligence, software design, embedded systems, virtual reality, and simulation?

Are you interested in applying your skills to conceive, design, prototype and test new capabilities in intelligent autonomous systems that will save US warfighter's lives and ensure our nation's preeminence?

If youanswered "yes" to either of these questions, we are looking for someone like you to join our team in the Intelligent Combat Platforms Group at APL!

Who are we?

We are the Intelligent Combat Platforms Group, and our mission focus is to ensure our Nation maintains the operational advantage on the future battlefield through foundational advances in artificial intelligence, autonomy, manned-unmanned teaming and novel unmanned aircraft (e.g. drones) design and testing. We believe the future of warfare will be defined by intelligent autonomous systems capable of fighting with machine precision at machine speeds. Whether it is developing the intelligence that drives autonomous wingmen behaviors, integrated real-time collaboration tools and data analytic architectures, or novel AI design tools and software, the Intelligent Combat Platforms Group is at the forefront. Three of our recent game-changing projects (DARPA Air Combat Evolution, AFRL Golden Horde, and Air Force SkyBorg) are featured in recent news articles, highlighting our impact and innovation.

We are seeking inquisitive and creative team members who like to tackle ambitious problems to help us build the next generation of autonomous combat systems and shape the future of warfare. Our team is an entrepreneurial and multidisciplinary team committed to developing technical talent, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration, while having fun with what we do!

As an Intelligent Combat Platform Mission Engineer, you will use your air combat expertise to...

  • Develop concepts of employments and supporting kill chains for autonomous and AI-enabled air combat systems.
  • Work with sponsors and operations Subject Matter Experts to identify key warfighter problem areas, develop problem definitions and requirements for technical team, and assist with designing analysis, experiments and evaluations of technical solutions.
  • Assist in integrating technical solutions into complex real world systems and kill chains.
  • Ensure warfighter first focus for technical solutions.
  • Provide operational expertise, mission and kill chain context to autonomy and AI-enabled solutions in the air combat domain.
  • Work with a complementary team of engineers, scientists, and software developers to deliver impactful capability to the war-fighter.

Qualifications

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

  • Have a Bachelor's degree in Computer/Software Engineering, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, or another related technical degree.
  • Have 3+ years experience working within and/or with the United States Armed Forces, with expertise in one or more of the following:
    • Military offensive and defensive air operations
    • Air to Air and Air to Ground effect employment and kill chains
    • Operational and tactical mission planning
    • C2 Architectures and workflows in air domain
    • Tactics development for air combat
    • In depth understanding of end to end kill chains for major weapon systems
  • Have substantial experience decomposing high-level program requirements into specific team tasks and objectives.
  • Have demonstrated strength with communication skills - both verbal and written and possess the ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment.
  • Are willing and able to travel within CONUS to U.S. Government and defense contractor's sites as well as to the work locations of Group staff.
  • Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Top Secret/SCI 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...

  • Have a Master's degree or Ph.D. in Computer/Software Engineering, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, or another related technical degree.
  • Have experience operating military aircraft.
  • Have experience leading projects that included implementing AI and autonomy algorithms in physical systems.
  • Have experience with field/user testing of complex technical systems.
  • Have an active US security clearance.

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 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 athttp://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

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 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 contactAccommodations@jhuapl.edu.

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.


Minimum Rate

$90,000 Annually

Maximum Rate

$230,000 Annually
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