... across the lab to design innovate solutions to critical challenges. * Adapt simulations and ... Have a BS in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Applied ...
... across the lab to design innovate solutions to critical challenges. * Adapt simulations and ... Have a BS in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Applied ...
Candidates must be available during the following designated lab windows: Days/Times: Tuesdays and ... Master's degree in Physics, Applied Physics, or a closely related field is required; a Ph.D. is ...
Quick apply
Candidates must be available during the following designated lab windows: Days/Times: Tuesdays and ... Master's degree in Physics, Applied Physics, or a closely related field is required; a Ph.D. is ...
Hardware Engineer, LIDAR Performance Validation
Mountain View, CA · Hybrid
$145K - $192K/yr
... lab You have: * Masters of science with 5+ years experience or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Applied Physics or equivalent * Strong knowledge of depth sensing technologies and hands on ...
Hardware Engineer, LIDAR Performance Validation
Mountain View, CA · Hybrid
$145K - $192K/yr
... lab You have: * Masters of science with 5+ years experience or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Applied Physics or equivalent * Strong knowledge of depth sensing technologies and hands on ...
Maintaining strong lab practices, safety protocols, and high-quality documentation of experimental ... The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our ...
Maintaining strong lab practices, safety protocols, and high-quality documentation of experimental ... The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our ...
2026 PhD Graduate - Optics and Photonics Postdoctoral Fellow
Laurel, MD · On-site
$48K - $65K/yr
You will serve as a resource to the group and the lab in your area of technical expertise. This ... The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our ...
2026 PhD Graduate - Optics and Photonics Postdoctoral Fellow
Laurel, MD · On-site
$48K - $65K/yr
You will serve as a resource to the group and the lab in your area of technical expertise. This ... The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our ...
Optics Engineer
Laurel, MD · On-site
$127K - $165K/yr
You will work with systems engineers across the lab to understand mission requirements and research ... The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our ...
Optics Engineer
Laurel, MD · On-site
$127K - $165K/yr
You will work with systems engineers across the lab to understand mission requirements and research ... The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our ...
Postdoctoral Researcher
Swarthmore, PA · On-site
$55K - $65K/yr
Perform lab chores and instrument maintenance (10%) What you bring: Required Qualifications * PhD in materials science, physics, applied physics, mechanical engineering * Demonstrated background in ...
Postdoctoral Researcher
Swarthmore, PA · On-site
$55K - $65K/yr
Perform lab chores and instrument maintenance (10%) What you bring: Required Qualifications * PhD in materials science, physics, applied physics, mechanical engineering * Demonstrated background in ...
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) is seeking a Deputy Head of Total Rewards to support the strategy, design, and delivery of competitive compensation, benefits, retirement ...
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) is seeking a Deputy Head of Total Rewards to support the strategy, design, and delivery of competitive compensation, benefits, retirement ...
Postdoctoral Researcher
Swarthmore, PA · On-site
$55K - $65K/yr
Perform lab chores and instrument maintenance (10%) What you bring: Required Qualifications * PhD in materials science, physics, applied physics, mechanical engineering * Demonstrated background in ...
Postdoctoral Researcher
Swarthmore, PA · On-site
$55K - $65K/yr
Perform lab chores and instrument maintenance (10%) What you bring: Required Qualifications * PhD in materials science, physics, applied physics, mechanical engineering * Demonstrated background in ...
Director, Physicist/Scientist
Santa Clara, CA · On-site
$210K - $289K/yr
Initiates and leads high level / complex physics related system issues in the lab and in the field ... Applied Materials is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration ...
Director, Physicist/Scientist
Santa Clara, CA · On-site
$210K - $289K/yr
Initiates and leads high level / complex physics related system issues in the lab and in the field ... Applied Materials is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration ...
... the lab and in the field. We are passionate about developing innovative laser concepts for high ... The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our ...
... the lab and in the field. We are passionate about developing innovative laser concepts for high ... The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our ...
Hardware Engineer, LIDAR Performance Validation
Mountain View, CA · On-site
$159K - $196K/yr
... lab You have: * Masters of science with 5+ years experience or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Applied Physics or equivalent * Strong knowledge of depth sensing technologies and hands on ...
Hardware Engineer, LIDAR Performance Validation
Mountain View, CA · On-site
$159K - $196K/yr
... lab You have: * Masters of science with 5+ years experience or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Applied Physics or equivalent * Strong knowledge of depth sensing technologies and hands on ...
Optics Engineer with Security Clearance
$128K - $166K/yr
You will work with systems engineers across the lab to understand mission requirements and research ... The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our ...
Optics Engineer with Security Clearance
$128K - $166K/yr
You will work with systems engineers across the lab to understand mission requirements and research ... The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our ...
Quantum Memory Physicist
Boston, MA · On-site
PhD in Physics, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field * Hands-on ... Working knowledge of electronic and RF/microwave instrumentation in a lab setting (e.g., signal ...
Quantum Memory Physicist
Boston, MA · On-site
PhD in Physics, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field * Hands-on ... Working knowledge of electronic and RF/microwave instrumentation in a lab setting (e.g., signal ...
Quantum Memory Physicist
Boston, MA · On-site
PhD in Physics, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field * Hands-on ... Working knowledge of electronic and RF/microwave instrumentation in a lab setting (e.g., signal ...
Quick apply
Quantum Memory Physicist
Boston, MA · On-site
PhD in Physics, Applied Physics, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field * Hands-on ... Working knowledge of electronic and RF/microwave instrumentation in a lab setting (e.g., signal ...
Research Intern - Applied Power Systems Analysis
Redmond, WA · On-site
$6.7K - $13K/mo
The Catalyst Lab at Microsoft Research is seeking a Research Intern to work on applied studies of ... The Research Intern will use existing power-system and physics-based models to analyze system ...
Research Intern - Applied Power Systems Analysis
Redmond, WA · On-site
$6.7K - $13K/mo
The Catalyst Lab at Microsoft Research is seeking a Research Intern to work on applied studies of ... The Research Intern will use existing power-system and physics-based models to analyze system ...
Associate Lab Director, Energy & Applied Science & Technology
Newport News, VA · On-site
$96K - $125K/yr
The Associate Lab Director, Energy and Applied Science and Technology, (ALD, EAST) provides ... This role is responsible for advancing key nuclear physics technologies while positioning the ...
Associate Lab Director, Energy & Applied Science & Technology
Newport News, VA · On-site
$96K - $125K/yr
The Associate Lab Director, Energy and Applied Science and Technology, (ALD, EAST) provides ... This role is responsible for advancing key nuclear physics technologies while positioning the ...
... the lab and in the field. We are passionate about developing innovative laser concepts for high ... The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our ...
... the lab and in the field. We are passionate about developing innovative laser concepts for high ... The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our ...
Postdoctoral Fellow in Electrochemical Engineering for Chemical Manufacturing
Cambridge, MA · On-site
$67K - $91K/yr
Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences Department/Area Applied Physics Position ... Specifically, the Schiffer lab focuses on how device-scale design decisions such as temperature and ...
Postdoctoral Fellow in Electrochemical Engineering for Chemical Manufacturing
Cambridge, MA · On-site
$67K - $91K/yr
Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences Department/Area Applied Physics Position ... Specifically, the Schiffer lab focuses on how device-scale design decisions such as temperature and ...
PIC Designer - Advanced Photonics
Gardena, CA · On-site
$160K - $200K/yr
... Applied Physics, or a related field * 2+ years of experience in photonic or electro-optical integrated circuit design * Hands-on experience with optical and RF lab instrumentation such as spectrum ...
PIC Designer - Advanced Photonics
Gardena, CA · On-site
$160K - $200K/yr
... Applied Physics, or a related field * 2+ years of experience in photonic or electro-optical integrated circuit design * Hands-on experience with optical and RF lab instrumentation such as spectrum ...
Applied Physics Lab information
See salary details
$5.29 - $7.12
0% of jobs
$7.12 - $8.96
0% of jobs
$8.96 - $10.80
0% of jobs
$10.80 - $12.63
24% of jobs
$12.72 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$12.63 - $14.47
16% of jobs
$14.47 - $16.30
0% of jobs
$16.30 - $18.14
0% of jobs
$18.14 - $19.97
0% of jobs
$19.97 - $21.81
0% of jobs
The median wage is $22.25 / hr.
$21.81 - $23.65
40% of jobs
$23.65 - $25.48
19% of jobs
$5
$20
$25
How much do applied physics lab jobs pay per hour?
What are the typical collaborative projects an Applied Physics Lab professional might engage in, and how do they work with interdisciplinary teams?
What is the difference between Applied Physics Lab vs Optical Engineer?
| Aspect | Applied Physics Lab | Optical Engineer |
|---|---|---|
| Required Credentials | Bachelor's or Master's in Physics, Engineering, or related fields; security clearance often required | Bachelor's or Master's in Optical Engineering, Physics, or related fields; certifications like OSA may be beneficial |
| Work Environment | Research labs, government facilities, defense projects | Design studios, manufacturing facilities, research labs |
| Employer & Industry Usage | Government agencies, defense contractors, research institutions | Tech companies, aerospace, telecommunications, research firms |
Applied Physics Labs and Optical Engineers often share credentials and work environments, especially in research and defense sectors. While Applied Physics Labs focus on broad physics research and development, Optical Engineers specialize in designing and testing optical systems. Both roles are vital in high-tech industries, but their specific focus areas differ.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Applied Physics Lab Technician, and why are they important?
What is an Applied Physics Lab?

Simulation Software Engineer with Security Clearance
Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics LaboratoryLaurel, MD
Other
Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO
Posted 4 days ago
Job description
* Radio Frequency (RF) and Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) Sensors
* Modeling and Simulation (M&S)
* Hardware/Software Development & Test
* Multi-Disciplinary Design Optimization
We develop and apply simulations to explore these areas across a variety of systems including hypersonic missiles, submarines, cruise missiles, and autonomous flight vehicles. As a member of our team, you will apply advanced programming techniques and design skills to develop sophisticated simulations and algorithms in many or all of these domains. We are committed to developing exceptional talent and fostering a culture of innovation, and as part of our group, you will have a chance to grow your expertise across these technologies. As a Simulation Software Engineer, you will... * Develop physics-based models, algorithms, and simulations, applying modern software engineering practices and next-generation technologies to advance our capabilities.
* Work closely with our cross-disciplinary team of engineers as well as simulation architecture experts across the lab to design innovate solutions to critical challenges.
* Adapt simulations and algorithms to run on high-performance systems (such as cluster compute environments) or to integrate with test hardware. Qualifications You will meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you... * Have a BS in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Applied Mathematics, or a related field.
* Have professional experience developing simulations or other scientific computing applications using C++ or a similar language.
* Have proficiency with a high-level programming language such as Matlab/Simulink or Python.
* Have experience developing software both individually and as part of a collaborative team, applying standard software engineering practices such as version control, CI/CD, test development, and containerization.
* Are passionate about scientific computing and eager to learn domain-specific topics including guidance, navigation, control, and seekers.
* Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately acquire a Top Secret clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government secret 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 an MS in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Applied Mathematics, or a related field.
* Have at least one year of professional experience developing simulations or other scientific computing applications using object oriented C++.
* Have experience developing physics-based kinematic simulations (i.e. 6DOF), IR and RF seeker simulations, or simulations involving GNC algorithms.
* Have experience designing, training, and deploying machine learning solutions to real-world problems, utilizing tools and frameworks such as TensorFlow or PyTorch.
* Have experience in one or more of the following areas: high performance computing (HPC); Nvidia CUDA or other GPU programming; FPGA programming; highly concurrent systems; signal processing; writing software that interfaces with embedded systems hardware or other hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulations.
* Are skilled developing software in both Linux and Windows environments using CMake and Visual Studio.
* Currently possess an active Secret security clearance with the ability to obtain a Top Secret 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 . 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 $85,000 Annually Maximum Rate $195,000 Annually
About Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing
Company size
5,001 - 10,000 Employees
Headquarters location
Laurel, MD, US
Year founded
1942