PhD Graduate - Weapon Systems Modeling and Analysis Engineer

2026 PhD Graduate – Weapon Systems Modeling and Analysis Engineer

3 days ago Be among the first 25 applicants

$/yr - $/yr

Are you passionate about improving Precision Strike capabilities for the United States warfighter? Do you love solving complex problems with sophisticated modeling and simulation (M&S) tools? If you are graduating with a PhD degree in Aerospace Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, Mathematics, or another engineering field and want to study the survivability of missile systems, we would love to have you join our team!

• Develop and use physics-based models and simulations to assess the effectiveness and optimal employment of both legacy and innovative U.S. strike missiles in 1‑v‑1 and 1‑v‑few scenarios
• Analyze driving factors behind strike system performance
• Collaborate with a multi‑disciplinary team to use, develop and improve modeling capabilities and missile models
• Build and leverage novel data visualization tools for large and complex data sets
• Prepare and present formal documentation to technical specialists, operational partners, and government sponsors
• Collaborate with mission‑level analysts and inform their modeling efforts

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you:

• Have a PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Physics, Computer Science, Mathematics, or another engineering field
• Have experience with data processing languages such as MATLAB and Python
• Have experience using physics-based simulations and investigating the driving factors behind performance
• Have experience solving complex problems using rigorous and documented processes
• Are willing, able and passionate about learning missile systems concepts to improve modeling and simulation tools and to perform engagement‑level analysis
• Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain Top Secret level clearance (eligibility requires U.S. citizenship)

You will go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you:

• Have experience in the modeling and simulation of surface‑to‑air and/or air‑to‑air missiles
• Have knowledge of software design best practices, including a solid understanding of object‐oriented programming principles
• Have experience with Simulink, Fortran, or C++
• Have experience working with software versioning systems such as Git or SVN
• Have experience working with external customers and partners
• Hold an active final Secret level security clearance

Limited air and vehicle travel to U.S. Government and Department of Defense contractor facilities.

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world‑class expertise to our nation’s most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. Our culture celebrates diversity, encourages creativity and bold ideas, and offers generous benefits and a healthy work/life balance. APL is located in the Baltimore‑Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at http://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

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 Accommodations.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.