2027 PhD Graduate – Accuracy Analyst - System Modeling, Evaluation, and Planning Group

Description

Are you interested in applying your STEM background to strategic deterrence and defense?

Are you interested in defining methodologies and processes that will be used for the testing and evaluation of current and future weapon systems?

Do you have experience in the design of complex systems and want to have an impact on critically important defense programs?

Do you like contributing to complex efforts that require team-based approaches?

If you are graduating with a PhD in math, physics, engineering, or a closely related field, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.

The System Modeling, Evaluation, and Planning Group within the Force Projection Sector of the John Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory is seeking Weapon System Accuracy Analysts to assess the planning and evaluation of the nation’s strategic deterrents. You will be joining a hardworking team of engineers, physicists, software developers, and mathematicians who are enthusiastic about their role as an independent evaluator and trusted agent for the nation’s strategic systems. We strive to foster an environment of innovation and learning to develop the critical technologies and experts of the future.

We are looking for capable analysts who will do some of the following:

• Model Inertial Navigation Systems: Learn about, develop and refine models associated with accelerometers and gyroscopes and how these errors in these systems build along a flight path.
• Model the Dynamics of Missile and Reentry Systems: Learn about, develop, and refine models associated with the aerodynamics of missile and reentry systems and associated fuzing mechanisms.
• Design Experiments: Lead the experimental design process for flight and ground tests to ensure data collection is optimized for model validation and parameter estimation.
• Architecture Development: Develop accuracy requirements, execute architectural trades, and evaluate progress during system development.
• Perform Statistical Validation: Leverage real-world collected data to estimate underlying physics-based errors, using statistical methods to determine how well models predict actual system behavior.
• Build Computational Frameworks: Develop robust tools in C++, MATLAB, or Python to facilitate analyses for important reports and deliverables.
• Evaluate and Communicate System Accuracy: Assess the accuracy of current strategic weapon systems and support the engineering of future systems to meet mission needs.

Qualifications

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

• Possess a PhD in applied math, applied statistics, physics, engineering, or a closely related field
• Have strong foundational skills in a scientific language (C++, MATLAB, or Python).
• Have experience in data analysis, statistical estimation, physics-based modeling, or requirements or architecture development
• Possess outstanding technical written and oral communication skills
• Are willing and able to occasionally travel to meetings and sponsor sites
• Are able to acquire an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately acquire a final 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 exceed our minimum requirements if you...

• Have experience with statistical analysis, parameter estimation and inverse problems, Kalman filtering, experimental design, Bayesian inference (e.g., MCMC), or Maximum Likelihood Estimation
• Have experience working in large collaborative environments that require teams of engineers, physicists, statisticians, and applied mathematicians
• Have experience in model-based systems engineering and/or the development of complex systems
• Have prior experience with tactical or strategic missile systems, or prior experience with inertial navigation systems
• Hold an active Secret or higher-level 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 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.

Minimum Rate

$105,000 Annually

Maximum Rate

$245,000 Annually