NSS Space Systems Engineer

Do you have a passion for Space Systems Engineering?

If so, we 're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL!

We are seeking a Space Systems Engineer to help support new concept developments and ongoing projects for National Security Space (NSS).

Be Part of Something Innovative

Over the past 25 years, the Space Exploration Sector at APL, has pushed the boundaries of what is possible; delivering game-changing impacts to sponsors like NASA and the Department of Defense. This includes historic, science space firsts like New Horizons reaching Pluto, Parker Solar Probe being the first to “touch” the sun, and the DART mission that redirected an asteroid for planetary defense. As a not-for-profit university affiliated research center, APL has also delivered solutions to our nation’s national security challenges, as proven with the recent Deep Space Advanced Radar Concept (DARC) Tech Demo, and acts as a trusted partner with the US Space Force in space domain awareness and space-integrated warfare.

APL teams are currently working with NSS sponsors to develop the framework for the U.S. national security space enterprise.  Our teams are defining requirements, creating architectures, planning the test and evaluation of military systems and assets, and developing advanced models and simulations.  APL’s core expertise extends to mission development and integration, and we are currently supporting demonstration mission design, development, and implementation for a variety of sponsors. 

 To learn about these APL’s mission and projects, https://civspace.jhuapl.edu/ and https://www.jhuapl.edu/OurWork/NationalSecuritySpace.

As a Space Systems Engineer you will...

• Lead engineering teams in the formulation, development, and execution of space mission concepts and system analysis in NSS. Projects range from formulation of system concepts to development of a flight mission or experiment, including hardware, software, integration and test, and operations.
• Provide technical interface to sponsor and project management.
• Perform systems level technical analysis, trade studies, and analysis of alternatives.
• Create formal communications through systems engineering documents, reports, proposals, and oral presentations.
• Lead and participate in engineering team meetings and overall technical development efforts.
• Develop and lead requirements, verification, and validation efforts.
• Define and manage system interfaces.
• Lead, coordinate, and present at technical design reviews.
• Work with project manager in defining and managing project risks.
• Lead and coordinate system level testing efforts.
• Be responsible for the technical aspects of delivering integrated missions, instrument payloads, spacecraft, or other mission articles.

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

• A BS (or higher) in engineering, physics, or equivalent with a minimum of 8 years of space engineering experience.

• At least 5 years of experience with national security space related projects
• Broad technical experience base and strong analytical skills.
• Demonstrated leadership capability working with engineering teams and/or sponsors.
• Demonstrated communications skills delivering presentations and in written documentation.
• Hold an active TS/SCI 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.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...

• M.S. (or higher) in Systems Engineering
• Experience and familiarity working directly with national security space sponsors
• 15 years of experience with national security space related projects

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.