• You will work with engineers and scientists to develop new concepts for software defined radios and payloads for space RF and optical systems for communications, PNT, remote sensing, and ISR&T applications.
• You will lead technical teams throughout the payload development cycle, including concept, trade studies, prototype work, flight development, integration, and test for both space and ground segment applications.
• You will perform DSP algorithms design, simulation, hardware platform trade studies, technical tradeoffs, and costing for both space and ground segment implementations.
• You will contribute to modeling, simulation, and analysis of space RF/ optical systems to support communications, remote sensing, ISR&T, and EW missions.

• Possess a BS or MS in Electrical Engineering or equivalent.
• Have 5+ years direct experience in digital signal processing for RF or optical systems or payload design, development, simulation (MATLAB, SystemVue, or equivalent) and test.
• Have experience in wireless modem or receiver design and/or testing.
• Are willing and able to accommodate flexible hours for spacecraft level testing activities for short periods of time, infrequent travel to customer or sponsor locations as well as spacecraft integration and test sites.
• Are able to obtain an interim Top-Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a TS/SCI+poly 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.

• Possess a PhD degree in Electrical Engineering with previous digital signal processing for RF systems or payload design leadership experience.
• Have experience with software-defined radios (SDR), antennas, RF characterization and measurements to Ka-band or beyond, optical, PNT systems design, radar systems design, or military satellite communications systems.
• Ability to work independently without technical oversight.
• Other key skills: SIGINT, EW, Precision Timing, Time Transfer, PNT, and Radar Design

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.