2026 PhD Graduate - Intelligent Autonomous Systems and Artificial Intelligence Engineer

Overview Are you passionate about innovating new technologies to influence and shape our Nation’s future security and preeminence? Are you excited about working on multi-disciplinary teams to innovate the state-of-the-art in autonomous systems, artificial intelligence, software design, embedded systems, virtual reality, simulation and/or uncrewed air platforms? Are you interested in applying your skills to conceive, design, prototype and test new capabilities in intelligent autonomous systems that will save US warfighter’s lives? If you are graduating with a PhD in Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) related area and you answered “yes” to any of these questions, we are looking for someone like you to join our team in the Intelligent Combat Platforms Group at APL! All candidates with a strong technical background, high initiative, and the ability to think creatively are encouraged to apply with or without AI experience. Who are we? We are the Intelligent Combat Platforms Group and our mission focus is ensure our Nation maintains the operational advantage on the future battlefield through foundational advances in artificial intelligence, autonomy, manned-unmanned teaming and novel aircraft design and testing. Our objective is to advance the technologies needed to enable machine precision decisions at machine speeds for future unpiloted systems and warfighters aided with intelligent assistants. Whether it is developing the intelligence that drives AI wingmen behaviors, sophisticated real-time collaboration architectures, or novel AI assessment tools and software, the Intelligent Combat Platforms Group is at the forefront. Three of our monumental and impactful projects have been DARPA Air Combat Evolution, AFRL Golden Horde, and Air Force SkyBorg. As a member of our team, possible roles include… Work on collaborative teams in one or more areas: intelligent control and decision-making, human-machine collaboration, networked and teamed systems, software/hardware design, multi-faceted algorithm development, complex battlefield management, and next generation autonomous air platforms. Prototype and simulate AI systems by writing code, developing software (simulation and visualization), creating algorithms, interfacing software/hardware, and supporting real-time demonstrations of autonomy in live, virtual, and simulation test environments. Collaborate with the nation’s leading experts in AI and work with an outstanding team of engineers, scientists, and software developers to deliver powerful capabilities to the warfighter. Qualifications You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you... Have a PhD Degree in a STEM area. Are skilled in C++ and/or Python and have knowledge of software design patterns. Have experience with applications for physical systems such as mechanical, aerospace, or robotics (e.g. Unmanned Aerial Systems). Have classroom or professional experience with artificial intelligence and autonomy algorithms. Are able to obtain an interim Secret security clearance by your start date, and ultimately a Top Secret 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 classroom or professional experience working with any of our core skills: autonomous systems, artificial intelligence, deep/reinforcement/machine learning, robotics, dynamics and controls, flight test and evaluation, modeling and simulation, avionics and sensors, aerodynamics, air combat platform design, data science, and statistical analysis. Have experience in military/department operations and acquisition processes. Have experience developing in a modern software development environment that includes automated testing, continuous integration and deployment, and "DevSecOps" environments. Have proficiency in additional programming languages (C, C#, Java, MATLAB), cloud computing, and configuration management. Have completed any certifications or internships. Keywords: Artificial intelligence, intelligent decision-making, autonomous systems, deep reinforcement learning, neural networks, collaborative teaming, next generation platforms, drones, cutting-edge sensors, robotics, Python, Java, Javascript, Typescript, C++, C#, C, Linux, Terminal, Bash, Matlab, Pytorch, tensorflow, Unity, UI development, simulation development, full stack development, front end development, physics, aerospace, data science, computer science, statistical analysis, mathematics, aerial combat, battle management, command and control, future warfare concepts, hardware, RC experience, pilot, flight testing, test planning, prototype, autopilot, FAA, Robot Operating System 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 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 $102,500 Annually Maximum Rate $227,500 Annually #J-18808-Ljbffr Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab