2026 PhD Graduate – Intelligent Autonomous Systems and Artificial Intelligence Engineer

About the role

We are the Intelligent Combat Platforms Group at APL. Our mission 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 aircraft design and testing.

Responsibilities

• Work on collaborative teams in one or more areas: intelligent control and decision-making, human-machine collaboration, networked and teamed systems, software/hardware design, multi-faceted algorithm development, complex battlefield management, and next generation autonomous air platforms.
• Prototype and simulate AI systems by writing code, developing software (simulation and visualization), creating algorithms, interfacing software/hardware, and supporting real-time demonstrations of autonomy in live, virtual, and simulation test environments.
• Collaborate with the nation's leading experts in AI and work with an outstanding team of engineers, scientists, and software developers to deliver powerful capabilities to the warfighter.

Requirements

• Have a PhD Degree in a STEM area.
• Be skilled in C++ and/or Python and have knowledge of software design patterns.
• Have experience with applications for physical systems such as mechanical, aerospace, or robotics (e.g. Unmanned Aerial Systems).
• Have classroom or professional experience with artificial intelligence and autonomy algorithms.
• Able to obtain an interim Secret security clearance by your start date, and ultimately a Top Secret clearance.

Qualifications

• Have classroom or professional experience working with any of our core skills: autonomous systems, artificial intelligence, deep/reinforcement/machine learning, robotics, dynamics and controls, flight test and evaluation, modeling and simulation, avionics and sensors, aerodynamics, air combat platform design, data science, and statistical analysis.
• Have experience in military/department operations and acquisition processes.
• Have experience developing in a modern software development environment that includes automated testing, continuous integration and deployment, and "DevSecOps" environments.
• Have proficiency in additional programming languages (C, C#, Java, MATLAB), cloud computing, and configuration management.
• Have completed any certifications or internships.

Skills

Keywords: Artificial intelligence, intelligent decision-making, autonomous systems, deep reinforcement learning, neural networks, collaborative teaming, next generation platforms, drones, cutting-edge sensors, robotics, Python, Java, Javascript, Typescript, C++, C#, C, Linux, Terminal, Bash, Matlab, Pytorch, tensorflow, Unity, UI development, simulation development, full stack development, front end development, physics, aerospace, data science, computer science, statistical analysis, mathematics, aerial combat, battle management, command and control, future warfare concepts, hardware, RC experience, pilot, flight testing, test planning, prototype, autopilot, FAA, Robot Operating System

Benefits

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) offers 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.

Pay

Minimum Rate: $105,000 Annually
Maximum Rate: $245,000 Annually

Schedule

Not specified