2026 PhD Graduate - Optical/Electrical/Computer Engineering - Imaging Systems - QPI

Join The Imaging Systems Group At Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory

Are you passionate about optical sensing, computer vision, and/or all things imaging?

Are you searching for an opportunity to apply your engineering skills in a creative and collaborative laboratory environment?

Would you love to engage in meaningful, hands-on work with an employer that prioritizes impact, innovation, and personal development?

If so, we are looking for someone like you to join our team at the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL)!

We are seeking a creative PhD new graduate to join the Imaging Systems Group. As a member of our team, you will contribute to critical system development and experimental efforts. You will be joining an excellent team committed to crafting an environment of innovation.

As a member of our team…

• Your primary responsibility will be to develop, evaluate, and deploy imaging system hardware, algorithms, and/or software.
• You will assist in the brainstorming and development of new initiatives/concepts in optical imaging through internal research and development (IR&D) efforts.
• You will capture technical contributions in internal me/reports and conference/journal papers, and present findings and recommendations at internal and external forums.
• You will support field integration and testing activities of developed systems.

Minimum requirements for your role include...

• Have a PhD in electrical/computer engineering, optical engineering, imaging science, computer vision, or equivalent.
• Have demonstrated the ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team and possess strong interpersonal, speaking, and technical writing skills.
• Are able to obtain an Interim Secret Clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Top Secret / SCI 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 will go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...

• Have an intern experience in electrical/computer engineering, optical engineering, imaging science, computer vision, or similar.
• Have an active Secret level security clearance.

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.

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 click.appcast.io.

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 $105,000 Annually Maximum Rate $245,000 Annually