Demo

Tactical Weapons Systems Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory
Laurel, MD Intern
POSTED ON 7/12/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 9/2/2026
Description

Are you passionate about using innovation, emerging technology and insights to solve system-level technical challenges involving various military warfare systems?

Are you a systems thinker with system engineering experience who wants to have an impact on nationally important defense programs?

Do you like working with and improving complex systems?

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

We are seeking a highly dynamic and creative Systems Engineer to develop and implement advanced weapons systems. As a member of our team you will represent APL to provide direct systems engineering support to the sponsor and to coordinate engineering services with APL team members to serve the technical needs of the program.

As a Tactical Weapons Systems Engineer, you will...

  • Support the government sponsor in systems engineering activities such as developing requirements, identifying trade studies, developing interface control documents, planning and executing tests, and assessing risks.
  • Design architecture and engineering models to instantiate and assess system configurations.
  • Lead and participate in engineering team meetings and overall technical development efforts.
  • Work with industry, academic, and government laboratory staff to identify opportunities and apply promising emerging technologies to advanced weapon systems applications.
  • Produce reports that bring together concept definitions, requirements, analysis results, and technical recommendations.

Qualifications

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

  • Have a Bachelor's degree in Systems Engineering, Operations Research/Applied Mathematics, Engineering, Physical Science or another related field.
  • Have at least three years of relevant experience in systems engineering principles and practices.
  • Are highly skilled in early concept development and performing assessments that take into account cost, schedule, and performance criteria.
  • Have demonstrated capability of working with engineering teams, test facilities, and/or sponsors to execute development test.
  • Have strong interpersonal and communication skills and ability to interact with sponsor representatives.
  • Ability and willingness to travel to present work to customers, provide technical advice during new system development/system modifications, and support laboratory/field testing.
  • Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Top 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...

  • Have a Master's degree in Systems Engineering, Operations Research/Applied Mathematics, Engineering, Physical Science or another related field.
  • Have knowledge and experience with Planning, Programming and Budgeting, Acquisition Process/Lifecycle, Research and Development, Test and Evaluation of DoD Systems.
  • Have 5 years of professional experience in weapon system engineering.
  • Have experience applying Model Based Systems Engineering concepts and practices to complex systems development.
  • Hold an active Top Secret clearance or above.

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

$100,000 Annually

Maximum Rate

$245,000 Annually

Salary : $100,000 - $245,000

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