Intelligent Systems Development Engineer
Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory· Defense & Aerospace R&D· Nov 17, 2025 · 12mo agoPosted 344 days ago
Laurel, Maryland
In office
Full-time
Mid
$115K–$166K est.
Before you apply
Ghost Signal:
Open since November 17, 2025 — 344 days, and still accepting applications.
Job description
Description
Are you interested in working in multi-disciplinary teams to advance the state-of-the-art in autonomous systems, uncrewed air platforms, artificial intelligence, software design, embedded systems, virtual reality, and simulation?
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 and ensure our nation’s preeminence?
If you are graduating with a degree in Computer Science, Math, Physics, and/or Engineering or related area with a strong background in Software Development , and you answered “yes” to either of these questions, we are looking for someone like you to join our team in the Intelligent Combat Platforms Group at APL!
Who are we?
We are the Intelligent Combat Platforms Group, and our mission focus is to ensure our Nation maintains the operational advantage on the future battlefield through foundational advances in artificial intelligence, autonomy, crewed-uncrewed teaming and novel autonomous aircraft (e.g. drones) design and testing. We believe the future of warfare will be defined by intelligent autonomous systems capable of fighting with machine precision at machine speeds. Whether it is developing the intelligence that drives autonomous wingmen behaviors, integrated real-time collaboration tools and data analytic architectures, or novel AI design tools and software, the Intelligent Combat Platforms Group is at the forefront. Three of our recent game-changing projects (DARPA Air Combat Evolution, AFRL Golden Horde, and Air Force SkyBorg) are featured in recent news articles, highlighting our impact and innovation.
We are seeking inquisitive and creative team members who like to tackle challenging problems to help us build the next generation of autonomous combat systems and shape the future of warfare. Our team is an entrepreneurial and multidisciplinary team committed to developing technical talent, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration, while having fun with what we do!
As an Autonomy Development Engineer, you will…
• Provide full stack development for autonomy applications.
• Provide user interface design and component hierarchy for intelligent systems.
• Work with a complementary team of engineers, scientists, and software developers to deliver impactful capability to the war-fighter.
Qualifications
You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you…
• Have a Bachelor's degree in Computer/Software Engineering, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, or another related technical degree.
• Are proficient writing code in object-oriented languages including: C#, Python or C++
• Experience with frameworks such as .NET, ASP.NET, ASP.NET Core.
• Strong understanding of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript and standard web development practices
• Familiar with front-end frameworks such as React, Angular, or Vue.js.
• Have demonstrated strength with communication skills - both verbal and written and possess the ability to collaborate effectively in a team environment.
• Are able to travel within CONUS to U.S. Government and defense contractor's sites as well as to the work locations of Group staff.
• Are able to obtain an 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.
You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...
• Have a Master's Degree or Ph.D. in COmputer/SOftware Engineering, COmputer Science, APplied Mathematics or another related technical degree
• Have experience with : • Blazor Web Application Framework (.NET)
• Drone Autopilots (ArduPlane, Pixhawk)
• Drone Ground Station Software (QGroundControl, ArduPlane mission planner, etc)
• Google Protocol Buffers (Protobuf)
• Database management systems, including design, development, and querying
• DevOps tools such as Docker, Kubernetes, and CI/CD pipelines
• Cesium (or relevant experience with other JavaScript map widgets)
• Have experience on projects that included implementing AI and autonomy algorithms in physical systems.
• Have experience with field/user testing of complex technical systems.
• Have an active Top Secret US security 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 jhuapl.edu .
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 Accessibility@jhuapl.edu .
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
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Keywords to mirror
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Benefits
Benefits detected in the listing.
Dental
Vision
Paid Time Off