Applied Signal Processing and AI/ML Engineer

Job Description

Description \n
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\nAre you an engineer who enjoys turning messy sensor data into actionable information? \n
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\nHave you developed signal processing or AI/ML algorithms and seen them transition from prototypes into usable capabilities? \n
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\nDo you enjoy working on challenging sensing problems while collaborating closely with application experts?\n
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If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL. \n
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\nAs an applied signal processing and AI/ML engineer, you will apply your expertise to develop, prototype, integrate, and transition advanced AI/ML and signal processing capabilities for maritime acoustic, RF, and communications sensing systems. Working as part of a multidisciplinary team of engineers, software developers, and applied scientists, you will help deliver solutions that improve the performance of operational and next-generation sensing platforms. You will collaborate with application subject matter experts, external partners, and sponsors to ensure technical solutions address real-world operational needs. Our team values creativity, collaboration, technical expertise, mission impact, and bold ideas and execution.\n
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As an Applied Signal Processing and AI/ML Engineer you will... \n
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• Design, develop, and evaluate AI/ML, signal processing, and information processing solutions for maritime sensing applications.
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• Prototype, integrate, test, and transition algorithms into operational software and embedded systems.
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• Collaborate with software engineers and domain experts to deploy capabilities in real-world environments.
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• Analyze sensor data, assess system performance, and identify opportunities to improve operational effectiveness.
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• Engage with sponsors, mission users, and stakeholders to understand requirements and translate them into technical solutions.
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• Contribute to proposal efforts and technical planning for future capabilities.
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• Mentor junior staff and foster technical excellence across the team.
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• Stay current with emerging technologies and assess their applicability to maritime sensing challenges.
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Qualifications \n
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You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you have... \n
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• A Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Physics, or a related technical field.
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• 3+ years of experience developing signal processing, machine learning, artificial intelligence, or information processing algorithms for sensor-based systems.
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• Experience working with real-world sensing data such as acoustic, RF, radar, communications, EO/IR, electronic warfare, or other physical sensing modalities.
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• Experience developing, testing, and transitioning algorithms into user-facing capabilities.
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• Strong software development skills using Python, C++, MATLAB, or similar languages.
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• The ability to obtain Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain 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.
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You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you have... \n
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• An advanced degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, Physics, or a related technical field.
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• Experience transitioning advanced analytics, AI/ML, or signal processing capabilities into military operational environments.
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• Experience leading small technical teams or serving as a technical lead on multidisciplinary projects.
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• Experience identifying new technical opportunities, engaging sponsors, and helping shape future programs.
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• Experience deploying AI/ML capabilities in resource-constrained, real-time, or operational environments.
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• An active Top Secret level clearance.
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About Us \n
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Why Work at APL?\n
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\nThe 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.\n
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\nAt 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
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\nAll 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 [email protected].\n
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\nThe 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.\n
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Minimum Rate \n
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\n$85,000 Annually \n
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Maximum Rate \n
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\n$195,000 Annually