Applied Physics Lab Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Are you interested in research and development of antennas and advanced RF sensors?

Do you want to develop experimental hardware systems and components?

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

The Sensor Technologies Group has a great opportunity for an antenna system engineer who is motivated to make critical contributions to our nation’s defense in the area of advanced antenna systems!

• Work on pioneering RF sensors and phased array technologies.


• Perform system engineering trade studies in support of concept development for new RF sensor systems to meet emerging sponsor requirements.


• Develop and assess antenna architectures, RF apertures, and enabling technologies against system-level performance metrics.


• Design, integrate, and test prototype RF apertures and sensor systems in laboratory, chamber, and field test settings.


• Present analysis to sponsors and prime contractors to guide program direction.


• Engage in opportunities to translate findings into whitepapers, conference talks, journal articles, or other internal or external publications.

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

• An M.S. in electrical engineering, physics, or equivalent, with a concentration in electromagnetics (EM), RF, or signal processing.


• 5 years of experience in developing phased array radar, EW, or communications systems.


• Experience with commercial computational EM software packages such as FEKO, HFSS, or ADS.


• Strong MATLAB or Python skills.


• Experience with RF lab equipment like network analyzers, signal generators, and spectrum analyzers.


• Strong written and verbal communication skills.


• The ability to travel up to 10% of the time as needed.


• Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a TS/SCI 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.

• A Ph.D. in electrical engineering, physics, or equivalent.


• Experience with antenna measurement techniques and facilities.


• Exposure to antenna design techniques to support wide bandwidths, dual-polarization, and conformal apertures.


• Prior experience with digital array systems, and digital beamforming.


• Familiarity with radar waveform design and signal processing.


• Experience leading teams with multi-faceted technical backgrounds to accomplish system performance objectives.


• Experience with pursuing and receiving research funding from external organizations.

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.

$100,000 Annually

$245,000 Annually