• Lead propulsion analysis and design efforts for low-speed applications, including cycle analysis, performance modeling, and integration studies.
• Design, plan, and oversee experimental campaigns, including wind tunnel tests, ground-based propulsion experiments, and hardware evaluations.
• Develop, refine, and validate propulsion system models for use in design trades and system-level assessments.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance in propulsion fundamentals and experimental best practices.
• Present technical findings and recommendations to sponsors, stakeholders, and leadership.
• Contribute to innovative research initiatives in advanced propulsion technologies, air-breathing systems, and hybrid propulsion concepts.
• Utilize propulsion modeling tools to conduct trade studies, performance assessments, and conceptual design studies of various weapon systems.

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
• 5+ years of professional experience in propulsion system design, analysis, or testing.
• Demonstrated expertise in propulsion fundamentals, thermodynamics, and fluid mechanics.
• Experience with propulsion modeling and simulation tools (e.g., NPSS, CFD codes, MATLAB, Python).
• Strong track record of delivering technical results independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to brief sponsors and document results.
• Are able to obtain a Secret level security 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.

• Master’s degree or Ph.D. in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering.
• Experience leading propulsion test campaigns, including facility coordination, test article design, and data analysis.
• Familiarity with multiple propulsion speed regimes to include solid rocket motors, ramjets and scramjets.
• Working knowledge of uncertainty quantification, experimental methods, and system-level trade studies.
• Active DoD Secret or higher clearance.

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 https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

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.