Demo

Test Automation Software Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory
Laurel, MD Intern
POSTED ON 5/28/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 6/25/2026
Description

Are you a problem solver ready to contribute to the development of aerospace projects? Does solving embedded software problems for aerospace systems sound fun and fulfilling to you?

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

We are seeking a software developer to help us craft test and test automation software for NASA, National Security Space/Department of War and other organizations. As a member of our team, you will develop novel solutions and new technologies across numerous projects and embedded real-time systems. You will work with teams of engineers and scientists passionate about innovation and driven to make a real difference. We strive to cultivate an environment that promotes professional growth and a balanced life, and encourages a wide range of ideas.

As a Test Automation Software Engineer you will...

  • Develop and automate test infrastructure solutions for real-time aerospace software efforts
  • Apply software engineering principles to design, develop, and test emulations of aerospace systems.
  • Assess, extend, refactor, and detail existing continuous integration and testbed systems.
  • Share knowledge by collaborating with and mentoring other APL staff, engaging with spacecraft engineers and participate in working groups.

Qualifications

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

  • A B.S. in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical or Computer Engineering, or other engineering field.
  • Proficiency in C , C and Python.
  • 3 years of experience developing software for embedded systems, test development, and devops.
  • Experience with Continuous Integration/Continuous Delivery systems and (CI/CD), such as GitLab or Bamboo.
  • Experience with containerization and virtualization environments.
  • Experience with design and development of test automation systems including infrastructure, monitoring, analysis, and standard processes.
  • Experience mapping technical requirements to reusable, executable test cases.
  • Experience with Source Code Management (SCM) systems, specifically Git.
  • Demonstrated breadth and depth of problem-solving abilities.
  • Great interpersonal skills - capable of working independently or collaboratively on a team.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills.
  • Ability and willingness to work in classified spaces.
  • Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Top Secret/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...

  • An M.S. or PhD. in Software Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical or Computer Engineering, or related technical field.
  • Demonstrated experience leading a team of (3 ) software engineers.
  • Experience with software development on real-time operating systems (RTOS) such as VXWorks and embedded Linux.
  • Experience with modern testing methodologies, such as Test Driven Development (TDD).
  • Experience in spacecraft flight or ground software development.
  • Experience developing real-time simulators and emulators.
  • Have experience with safety-critical avionics systems development.

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

If your compensation planning software is too rigid to deploy winning incentive strategies, it’s time to find an adaptable solution. Compensation Planning
Enhance your organization's compensation strategy with salary data sets that HR and team managers can use to pay your staff right. Surveys & Data Sets

What is the career path for a Test Automation Software Engineer?

Sign up to receive alerts about other jobs on the Test Automation Software Engineer career path by checking the boxes next to the positions that interest you.
Income Estimation: 
$84,546 - $99,351
Income Estimation: 
$104,692 - $122,242
Income Estimation: 
$84,546 - $99,351
Income Estimation: 
$104,692 - $122,242
Employees: Get a Salary Increase
View Core, Job Family, and Industry Job Skills and Competency Data for more than 15,000 Job Titles Skills Library

Job openings at Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

  • Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory Laurel, MD
  • Description Are you an early-career researcher hoping to invent the future of artificial intelligence (AI)? Do you have a burning desire for your research ... more
  • Just Posted

  • Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory Laurel, MD
  • Description Are you interested in joining a next-level cyber defense team that operates in an inclusive and fulfilling work environment? If so, join us at ... more
  • Just Posted

  • Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory Laurel, MD
  • Description Are you interested in being part of a highly collaborative Cybersecurity Hunt & Incident Respone Team? Are you inquisitive and analytical with ... more
  • Just Posted

  • Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory Laurel, MD
  • Description Metabolic and Biomanufacturing Process Post Doctoral Fellow Do you marvel at the complexity of metabolism and seek to leverage natural metaboli... more
  • Just Posted


Not the job you're looking for? Here are some other Test Automation Software Engineer jobs in the Laurel, MD area that may be a better fit.

  • Johns Hopkins University AppliedPhysicsLaboratory Laurel, MD
  • Description Are you a problem solver ready to contribute to the development of aerospace projects? Does solving embedded software problems for aerospace sy... more
  • 2 Days Ago

  • Sabre Systems, LLC Patuxent River, MD
  • Responsibilities As a Software Test Automation Engineer at Sabre Systems, you will employ your talent towards improving the systems used on the United Stat... more
  • 8 Days Ago

AI Assistant is available now!

Feel free to start your new journey!