Senior Guidance and Control Engineer

Senior Guidance & Control Engineer A senior Guidance & Control (G&C) engineer will deliver world‑class analysis and development across advanced vehicle systems such as hypersonics, cruise missiles, submarines, and autonomous flight vehicles. The role focuses on the design, development, and transition of cutting‑edge guidance and control solutions for the U.S. military. Key Responsibilities Apply expertise in guidance and control to tackle complex technical challenges across a wide range of advanced autonomous vehicle systems. Lead the research, design, and development of cutting‑edge guidance and control algorithms, grounded in modern control theory and best practices. Mentor and guide other GNC engineers and help maintain deep knowledge in the analysis, design, and implementation of control solutions for next‑generation weapon systems. Analyze and assess contractor designs to assist program offices throughout the DoD acquisition cycle and interface with the contractor community to help them design and build operational weapon systems. Collaborate closely with experts across disciplines to identify technical risks, communicate challenges to program sponsors, and help shape the strategic direction of programs. Minimum Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mathematics, or another related technical field. At least five years of experience in vehicle guidance, controls, or autonomous systems. Experience building physics‑based models and applying system dynamics and equations of motion in a simulation environment. Proficiency in one or more areas of controls theory, including classical methods (e.g., PID) and modern methods (e.g., nonlinear Lyapunov‑based, adaptive, robust, cooperative, and model predictive control) and their application to vehicle control design. A strong sense of initiative, creativity, and passion for learning. Effective teamwork skills and desire to mentor and lead technical staff members. Ability to obtain an Interim Secret clearance by start date and ultimately obtain a Top Secret clearance. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship. Preferred Qualifications Master’s degree or PhD in a related technical field. Proficiency in guidance theory and application to flight systems (e.g., ProNav, GENEX, Optimal Guidance Methods). Deep knowledge in an affiliated field such as state estimation, navigation, optimization, system identification, hardware‑in‑the‑loop (HWIL) testing, or flight‑testing missile systems. Significant experience in Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning (AI/ML), especially as applied toward vehicle autonomy. Experience in project management, mentorship, and/or leading teams. About Our Team The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world‑class expertise to the nation’s most critical defense, security, space, and science challenges. A culture that celebrates diverse perspectives, encourages creativity, and fosters bold new ideas. Employees enjoy generous benefits, a robust education assistance program, retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL’s campus is located in the Baltimore‑Washington metro area. Learn more about opportunities at Equal Opportunity Statement 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. If additional assistance is needed, contact View email address on click.appcast.io . Compensation & Benefits Minimum Rate: $100,000 Annually Maximum Rate: $245,000 Annually Additional compensation may include bonuses, relocation benefits, locality allowance, or discretionary payments. A comprehensive benefits package includes 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory