Demo

Senior Software Engineer – Robotic Systems

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory
Laurel, MD Full Time
POSTED ON 6/1/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 7/1/2026
Description

Are you looking for challenging software engineering work for advanced robotic and autonomous systems?

 

Do you thrive in a dynamic environment?

 

Do you like to set the technical direction of projects while still contributing to them technically?

 

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

 

We are seeking a Senior Software Engineer to help us perform rapid prototyping for the Navy’s future unmanned, robotic, and autonomous systems.  You will be joining a hardworking team of engineers who cultivate a fast-paced development environment to build perception, localization, and navigation algorithms; integrate them into complex systems; and test the software in the real world on robotic platforms.  You will have the opportunity to ensure project success by both developing software as well as guiding technical teams.  You will contribute to the development of technologies that enable the Navy’s future unmanned fleet.

 

As a Senior Software Engineer for Robotic Systems...

  • Your primary responsibility will be to perform software engineering for unmanned platforms. This is to include object-oriented design, agile software development, laboratory system integration and testing, and field testing.
  • You will have opportunities for project management to further impact and guide robotic and autonomous system capabilities.
  • You will propose and develop innovative ways to apply cutting-edge technologies to extend the capabilities and performance of emerging naval systems.
  • You will document software development activities and test results. Prepare for and conduct periodic design reviews, as well as, technical reports and other briefing materials for presentation to all levels of staff and government agencies.

Qualifications

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

  • Have a B.S. in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Robotic Systems, or a related technical field
  • Have 7 years of relevant experience working in software engineering with C, C , or python
  • Are skilled in a breadth of software development practices and processes
  • Have experience effectively communicating with all levels of staff and clients
  • Hold a Top Secret level security clearance by start date and can ultimately obtain TS/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
  • Are willing and able to travel up to 10% of the time

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

  • Have an M.S. in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Robotic Systems, or a related technical field
  • Have 10 or more years of experience working with software development and development practices
  • Have experience managing technical projects, setting project timelines, and communicating effectively with external partners

 


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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