2027 Graduate - Engineer/Scientist - Communication Systems

Do you have interest in network and communications engineering?

Are you searching for meaningful work to solve critical communications challenges involving the defense of the US?

If you are graduating with a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or other related technical degree and want to work in developing solutions for networking challenges, we would love to have you join our team!

We are seeking multiple Networking andSoftware Engineers eager to learn new skills as you join a hardworking multi-disciplinary team responsible for problem solving, designing, and prototyping solutions to provide access to real-time information for our government sponsors. Our team advances the state of the art in networking through systems engineering research, design, analysis, experimentation, and rapid prototyping of wired, wireless, virtual, and space-based communication networks and technology! Our work helps ensure that military personnel, first responders, and government agencies can communicate when it matters most, even in contested, degraded, or denied environments. Throughout a career with our team, you will have the opportunity to deepen your technical domain expertise, gain knowledge in adjacent areas, and make contributions to solve real-world challenges.

As a member of our team, you may:

• Research solutions and engineering cutting‑edge secure communications and networking technologies in support of national security missions.
• Design, develop, and test software as part of user interfaces, network protocols, evaluation tools, and more.
• Explore applications of artificial intelligence to networking, communications, and autonomous systems.
• Develop wired and wireless network technology, designs, and architectures.
• Evaluate operational networks through experimentation, analysis, laboratory and field testing, and delivering actionable recommendations that shape the design, performance, and resilience for our sponsor networks.

New engineers are paired with experienced mentors and have opportunities for technical training, conference participation, and hands‑on experimentation from the beginning of their careers. We strive to cultivate an environment of collaboration, innovation and application… and we would love to have you on our team!

Qualifications

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

• Have a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or other related technical degree
• Have experience developing software in languages such as Python, C++, Go, Rust or others.
• Can work effectively both independently and in teams and possess strong interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.
• Meet at least two of the following criteria:
  • Exposure to fundamentals of networking, including the TCP/IP stack and basic behaviors of the protocols involved.
  • Understanding of computer science fundamentals such as data structures, algorithms, and software best practices.
  • Experience in communications systems, modeling and simulation, evaluation or developmental testing.
• Are able to obtain an Interim Top Secret level security clearance by your start date and are ultimately able to obtain a 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.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...

• Have demonstrated curiosity for networking technologies through coursework, research, internships, personal projects, clubs, or competitions.
• Have knowledge of computer network technologies including:
  • An understanding of networking technologies to include protocols and hardware (e.g., routers and switches).
  • Experience inspecting and evaluating network topologies, traffic flows, and packet structure using tools such as iPerf, Wireshark, and Nmap.
• Have knowledge of software development including:
  • A strong understanding of modern software development practices and tools, including: version control systems, issue trackers, and test frameworks.
  • Experience developing in a Linux environment with several of the following languages: Python, JavaScript, Java, C++, C, Bash.
• Have knowledge of communication systems including:
  • Knowledge of wireless technologies such as satellite communications, 5G (and beyond) cellular communications, or High Frequency radio.
• Hold an active Top Secret or TS/SCI 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

$85,000 Annually

Maximum Rate

$165,000 Annually