Dynamics Analyst

About the role

At APL we push the boundaries of air- and missile-defense technology. Our multidisciplinary teams bring together experts in aerospace, mechanical engineering, physics, and more to transform bold ideas into operational capabilities. We foster a collaborative, inclusive culture where curiosity is rewarded, and every engineer has the freedom to explore innovative solutions. Aerospace vehicles operate in extreme environments—high-speed flight, intense vibration, shock, and rapid thermal changes. Our Dynamics team provides the fundamental analysis that guarantees safety, performance, and lethality.

Responsibilities

• Develop and validate mathematical models of aerospace systems using MATLAB and commercial tools (e.g., Abaqus, SIMPACK, ANSYS).
• Translate first-principles physics into robust simulation tools and models.
• Perform first-principles dynamics, vibration, and aeroelastic stability analyses.
• Generate realistic load cases for flight-vehicle simulations.
• Support on-site and off-site shock, vibration, and performance testing and process test data to reconcile results with predictions.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams (aerodynamics, structures, thermal, mission planning) to integrate multi-physics solutions.
• Document analyses, produce technical reports, and present findings to internal teams, sponsors, and external partners.
• Leverage internal funding streams to pursue self-directed research, patents, or conference papers.
• Produce concise technical reports, design reviews, and briefings.
• Present findings to internal teams, sponsors, and peer organizations.

Requirements

• BS Degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent.
• 6+ years of research and/or professional experience in dynamics.
• Proficient in MATLAB.
• Willing and able to work full-time based out of the APL campus in Laurel, MD. Telework may be available up to two days per week under certain conditions.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team, with a history of important contributions to multidisciplinary teams on a variety of analysis problems.
• Demonstrated self-starter with the ability to set direction and work successfully with little supervision.
• Proficiency in one or more related fields, including but not limited to Lagrangian dynamics, multi-body dynamics simulation, modal analysis, LabVIEW development, flight hardware qualification, multi-physics simulation, and force reconstruction.
• Strong written and oral presentation skills; comfortable communicating complex technical concepts to diverse audiences.
• Willingness to travel up to 5% of the time as needed.
• Able to obtain Secret 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.

About Us

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.

Pay

Minimum Rate $105,000 Annually
Maximum Rate $290,000 Annually

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.

Benefits

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