AI Systems Engineer

Description

Are you a highly motivated, hands‑on systems engineer with exceptional technical and leadership skills?

Are you searching for meaningful work in the vigorous pursuit of the advancement of AI and autonomy to revolutionize autonomous intelligence collection and decision making?

Do you enjoy collaborating with an energetic and talented team of scientists and engineers to help ensure the US achieves a preeminent position as the world leader in the development and fielding of intelligent autonomous combat systems?

If so, consider joining us in the Tactical Intelligent Systems Group (QAT) as we work to advance the safety and security of the nation through "Critical Contributions to Critical Challenges". We are seeking an energetic and talented individual who is interested in being part of a dynamic team pursuing advanced applications in artificial intelligence and autonomy to enable future intelligence capabilities to outmaneuver and outthink the adversary and create undeniable access for the United States. Our team is made up of professionals with a demonstrated expertise in aerospace engineering, control theory, machine learning, optimization / optimal control theory, stochastic optimal control and the general field of artificial intelligence. We are advancing analytic methods and developing integrated software systems empowering informed decision making. We are working to advance the forefront of national and health security.

We are problem solvers committed to making a difference who are looking for teammates who will bring their passion and dedication to our work. In QAT, you will help design, develop, and deploy systems to address complex problems and enable decision making. Ideally you are a systems thinker who takes initiative in solving problems based on your solid systems engineering foundations. If you are willing to collaborate and grow as part of a complementary team of data scientists and engineers, our group may be a place for you to thrive.

As a member of the QAT team you will:

• You will work with your colleagues advancing the science and applications of AI, Machine Learning and Advanced Autonomy to develop technical capabilities to revolutionize the art of intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), air-to-air, strike and electronic warfare
• You will develop and apply your skills in software development to code new algorithms for real‑time autonomy applications and advanced high performance live, virtual and constructive simulations
• You will support innovative research and development of advanced AI and autonomy algorithms, novel reinforcement learning techniques and, along with your colleagues, publish your results to advance the collective knowledge in this fast growing, dynamic field of study.

Qualifications

You meet our minimum required qualifications for the job if you...

• Have a Bachelor's degree in engineering, computer science, mathematics, or other relevant field, plus 2 or more years of professional experience in systems engineering.
• Possess demonstrated experience on technical efforts related to autonomy, AI and machine learning, and /or optimal control theory
• Possess demonstrated experience developing simulation models using C/C++/JAVA or other suitable software coding languages
• Possess outstanding written and oral communication skills, organizational skills, and a proficiency at relationship building with colleagues, sponsors, and other organizations (contractors, UARCs, FFRDCs).
• Are able to travel to U.S. Government and defense contractor sites as needed
• Hold an active Secret level security clearance and are able to obtain 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 expectations if you...

• Possess Master's in engineering, computer science, mathematics or other relevant field, plus 5 or more years of professional experience.
• Have a successful track record developing, proposing and successfully executing novel research in the application of AI/RL/ML
• Are proficient in Cameo Enterprise Architecture and SysML, including demonstrated experience using the Simulation Tool Kit and Velocity Templating Language (VTL) with the Report Wizard.
• Have familiarity with Python or other programming languages, HTML, and Internet Information Services (IIS) or other web servers.
• Have an active Top Secret clearance.

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

$100,000 Annually

Maximum Rate

$245,000 Annually