Demo

Space Software Analyst

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory
Laurel, MD Full Time
POSTED ON 7/9/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 8/9/2026
Description

Are you interested in changing science fiction into reality for our national security in space?

 

Are you passionate about creating algorithms for autonomous spacecraft operations?

 

Do you want to work with brilliant colleagues on challenging problems while still having work-life balance?

 

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

 

We are in search of a technically strong and passionate Software Analyst to develop software capabilities in support of Space Domain Awareness (SDA) missions. We want candidates with a background in software engineering or computer science who are excited to contribute to tracking, analysis, and operational understanding of objects in Earth's orbit!

 

As a Space Software Analyst, you will...

  • Be part of a cross-disciplinary team.
  • Collaborate with domain experts to implement algorithms for new sensing paradigms, state estimation and data fusion.
  • Gather user requirements, participate in technical design discussions, and contribute to documentation and software lifecycle processes.
  •  Build testing, integration, and deployment pipelines for simulation frameworks and operational software environments.
  • Support modeling, simulation, and analysis efforts by developing tools that work with mission design, navigation, and attitude control software suites.
  • Develop interactive analysis and visualization tools for use by SDA analysts and researchers.

Qualifications

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

  • Have a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Physics, Mathematics, or a related technical field with equivalent experience.
  • Demonstrate strong programming skills in C , Python, Java, and MATLAB.
  • Write code using standard processes in software development (e.g., version control, testing, modular design).
  • Exhibit strong problem-solving skills and an ability to work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams.
  • Are passionate about the space domain and national security applications of SDA technologies.
  • Are able to acquire an active Secret clearance by your start date and can ultimately acquire 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.

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

  • Have experience with astrodynamics simulation tools (e.g., STK, GMAT, Orekit, SPICE) or physics-based software development.
  • Write tools using modern software systems.
  • Demonstrate familiarity with orbital dynamics, electro-optical sensors, or space surveillance concepts.
  • Build data visualization or interactive analysis tools.
  • Have an active TS/SCI clearance.

#LI-KW1


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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