Demo

Data Scientist/Systems Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory
Laurel, MD Full Time
POSTED ON 4/9/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 6/5/2026
Description

Do the challenges of analyzing, testing, and evaluating electro-optic systems intrigue you? Are you interested in developing analytical and statistical tools and using them to extract from raw data an understanding of how complex systems perform?

 

If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL!

 

We are seeking a meticulous person to analyze EO/IR seekers and sensors, and the systems used to test them.

 

As an Data Scientist / System Engineer, you will:

  • Analyze, evaluate, and test EO/IR seekers and sensors at the unit, subsystem, and system levels
  • Develop and refine algorithms, tools, and simulations for analysis
  • Support flight tests and related field operations and analyze the data from them
  • Prepare and deliver to the Government reports that provide objective evidence for decision support
  • Review requirements, designs, and specifications
  • Analyze and work to improve the performance of special test equipment for EO/IR seeker and sensor systems
  • Work with a team of developers and analysts, project and program managers, and with peers across our organization to ensure that our assessments provide critical contributions to the most critical challenges the nation faces in air and missile defense.

Qualifications

You will meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you have:

  • A BS degree in mathematics, physics, astronomy, optics, engineering, or a related field
  • Professional experience in data analysis, evaluation, and testing applicable to electro-optic systems.
  • Knowledge of a wide variety of physical and mathematical analytical techniques, and a flair for understanding and solving complex technical problems.
  • Desire and ability to partner with government, industry, and academia to develop sophisticated systems crucial to the defense of the United States.
  • Strong written and oral presentation skills.
  • Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a 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.

 

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...

  • An MS or PhD degree or equivalent in a relevant technical field.
  • Experience in system-level requirement analysis, engineering, and evaluation of electro-optical sensors, systems, and subsystems
  • Interdisciplinary familiarity of systems including optical, electro-optical, electrical, software, and mechanical engineering
  • Experience with developing models and/or analysis tools using MATLAB or Python.
  • Experience in system engineering and project management.
  • Experience with integrated software/hardware systems.
  • Current Secret, Top Secret, or TS/SCI 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 at http://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 Accommodations@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

Salary : $90,000 - $230,000

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