Demo

Wireless Communications Algorithm Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory
Laurel, MD Full Time
POSTED ON 3/22/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 9/19/2026
Description

Do you have experience solving real world problems related to wireless communications?

Are you searching for meaningful work to solve crucial communications challenges for the special operations and intelligence communities?

If so, we want you to join our team of comms engineers working on a broad set of evolving problems.

We are seeking a dedicated engineer to join a hardworking team that loves solving problems and building capabilities that may transition to operational prototypes. Our team is committed to the mission and passionate about developing capabilities for specialized wireless systems!

As a Wireless Communications Algorithm Engineer, you will...

  • Research new technologies and develop solutions to address evolving threats.
  • Support digital signal processing (DSP) algorithm development.
  • Provide implementable technical solutions to the Nation's hardest problems.
  • Translate vague concepts into practical, well-defined, and methodical technical plans.
  • Communicate technical results clearly in written reports and presentations.
  • Work with technologies and concepts including, but not limited to wireless, SATCOM, Physical and MAC layer protocols, software defined radio (SDR), waveform design, RF modeling and simulation, RF system analysis, and transceiver design.

Qualifications

You meet the minimum qualifications for this position if you have ...

  • A Bachelor's degree (or equivalent experience) in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Physics, Mathematics or another related field with at least ten years of relevant experience, OR a Master's degree (or higher) in one of the same fields of study with at least five years of relevant experience.
  • Proficiency in communication theory and digital signal processing (DSP), with a foundational knowledge of, and experience with, the physical, data link, or media access layers of communications systems.
  • Experience in modeling and simulation of the physical layer with MATLAB, Python, and/or other languages.
  • Familiarity with some of the following: geolocation, detection and estimation theory, or waveform design.
  • The ability to obtain an Interim Top 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 ...

  • At least ten years of experience in commercial and/or government communication engineering.
  • A wide breadth and depth of wireless systems knowledge.
  • Demonstrated expertise with end to end comms system design.
  • Recent knowledge of DoD and/or intelligence community, sponsors, and programs.
  • A current Top Secret or TS/SCI clearance.

This position is on-site at APL's main campus (Laurel, MD) with occasional travel.

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

$227,500 Annually

Salary : $100,000 - $227,500

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