Space Kill Chain Analyst

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

Are you passionate about solving challenging problems in a fast-paced environment?

If so, we'd love for you to join our team at APL!

We’re looking for a motivated Junior Space Kill Chain Analyst to join a small, high-impact team focused on advanced modeling and simulation for space orbital warfare and kill-chain scenarios. In this entry-to-mid-level role, you’ll play a meaningful part in executing high-fidelity 6DoF simulations, performing orbital and mechanical analyses, and leading large-scale trade space studies. Your work will center on EO/IR sensors, signatures, and end-to-end kill chains in contested space environments. You’ll collaborate closely with senior engineers, document technical findings, create presentations, and help deliver clear, impactful results to sponsors. This is an outstanding opportunity for someone with strong technical foundations who is eager to grow their expertise while contributing to critical national security missions.

As a Space Kill Chain Analyst you will...

• Execute detailed analyses using 6DoF simulations to evaluate orbital, launch vehicle, and missile mechanics.
• Develop and carry out comprehensive trade space analyses, identifying key insights and performance characteristics to improve kill-chain efficiency.
• Apply your knowledge of EO/IR sensor systems and signature modeling to support space-based targeting and engagement assessments.
• Collaborate daily with a small, talented team of engineers through regular meetings and iterative technical discussions.
• Work independently with minimal supervision when needed, while maintaining strong communication and accountability.
• Document technical work, develop professional presentations, and deliver results to both internal teams and external sponsors (both written and verbal).

You meet the minimum qualifications if you...

• Hold a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Physics, Engineering, or a related field.
• Have a strong background in orbital mechanics, launch vehicle mechanics, or missile mechanics.
• Have 2+ years of hands-on experience executing analyses with 6DoF simulations.
• Posses demonstrated ability to plan and conduct large-scale system trade space analyses and extract actionable insights.
• Have working knowledge of EO/IR sensor systems and signature modeling.
• Are proficient in MATLAB.
• Have experience working in Linux environments and with high-performance computing (HPC) clusters.

• Are able to obtain TS/SCI+poly level security 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 go above and beyond the minimum qualifications if you...

• Posses familiarity with space vehicle and missile Guidance, Navigation, and Control (GNC) systems.
• Have experience in weapon system engineering.
• Have a background with hardware-in-the-loop (HWIL) systems.
• Are Proficient in C++.

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  .

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  View email address on apply.j-vers.com .

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.