Software Engineer

Description

Are you interested in playing a critical technical leadership role in developing future simulation and analysis capabilities for next-generation naval systems and land-based sensor networks? Do you enjoy working in a creative environment with a team of highly motivated computer scientists, engineers, and physicists? If so, we are looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.

We are seeking experienced Software Engineers to join us to design, develop, and scale advanced modeling and simulation capabilities. From Advanced Surface Navy radars to Land-based Cruise Missile Defense, your work will provide the essential insights needed to navigate the world's most challenging operational environments.

The Technical Challenge:* Develop: Create and maintain high-performance software for RF clutter modeling, data analysis pipelines, and tactical decision aids.

• Simulate: Build detailed, physics-based simulations that offer new levels of understanding regarding system performance in real-world scenarios.
• Collaborate: Work within a high-performing, teamed environment alongside radar engineers, physicists, and combat systems experts.
• Innovate: Apply modern software practices and machine learning algorithms to solve complex engineering problems.
• Lead: Influence the strategic direction of our analysis capabilities and collaborate with program management to define future technical roadmaps.

What We’re Looking For:* Proven experience in software engineering, ideally within a complex systems or simulation environment.

• A passion for applying modern development practices to solve high-stakes technical problems.
• The ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams and communicate complex technical concepts.

A proactive mindset—you don't just follow a task list; you help identify the next great challenge.

Qualifications

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you have...* A BS in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or equivalent technical field with at least 2 years of systems software development experience in compiled languages such as C/C++ or Java.

• Experience developing complex models and simulations, particularly for DoW-system performance analysis applications.
• Experience in structured software development processes (e.g., agile development).
• A strong understanding of modern software development practices and tools such as Git, Docker, Tabnine, GitLab, Jira, and other Atlassian products.
• Good interpersonal and communication skills.
• Willingness to travel up to 5% of the time as needed.
• 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...* An MS or PhD in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or equivalent technical field.

• Experience leading development teams on complex software development efforts with modern development processes.
• Experience with an interpreted language like Python or MATLAB.
• Experience with modern compiled languages like Go or Rust.
• Experience using agentic workflow practices and agentic engineering patterns in a collaborative environment.
• Have an existing Top Secret clearance.

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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 at https://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 contact Accessibility@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

$85,000 Annually

Maximum Rate

$195,000 Annually