Mathematical Optimization Jobs in Laurel, MD (NOW HIRING)

Description Do you enjoy building, mentoring, coaching, and leading collaborative technical teams? Are you interested in quantitatively assessing how various types of sensors and sources of data can be fused to generate impactful information for long range fires, counter-kill chain and battle management applications? Do you possess a deep technical proficiency in modeling and analysis of complex, interacting systems-of-systems at the mission level? Are you ready to lead a cadre of mission analysts engaged with advancing US defense capabilities in Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance, and Targeting (ISRT) or Battle Management Command and Control (BMC2)? If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL! We are seeking a creative, collaborative, and enthusiastic leader to provide technical and line leadership for the Modeling and Analytics section (KAT-01) of the ISR and Targeting and Applications Group (KAT) in the Force Projection Sector (FPS). KAT serves as the Laboratory's premier engine for transforming cutting‑edge ISRT and BMC2 concepts into combat‑ready kill‑chain and counter-kill‑chain capabilities. The group integrates high‑fidelity modeling and analytics, software interfaces and DevOps, operations and threat characterization, rapid prototyping, and integrated test and experimentation to address the most demanding capability gaps for the Joint Force. KAT designs and develops interoperable, end‑to‑end autonomous and distributed kill‑chain architectures and rigorously evaluates them through realistic, Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2) focused test environments and field experimentation to ensure successful technology transition. Through this work, the group enables warfighters to achieve and sustain dominance in contested environments across the full spectrum of conflict. Core competencies of KAT-01 include applying mission level simulation environments to explore concepts of operations, predict performance, and inform future concepts and architectures. Additionally, incorporating real-world data into M&S environments to enhance and evolve modeling capabilities. As the Modeling and Analytics Section Supervisor (KAT-01), you will... Provide Technical Leadership: * Deliver technical guidance and oversight across the full portfolio of the section's technical activities to ensure effective planning and execution.
* Use mission level modeling and simulation tools, such as AFSIM or CLCSIM, to evaluate and improve ISR&T and BMC2 concepts, sensor architectures, and kill chain performance.
* Promote innovation and ensure high standards of excellence in M&S and analysis products.
Develop the Section: * Supervise and support a hybrid (staff located at Laurel, MD and across multiple sites in Colorado) section of approximately 6+ technical staff members.
* Coach, mentor, and guide staff, including performance feedback, goal setting, and supporting advancement and recognition.
* Connect staff with opportunities for growth, leadership and mission impact.
* Implement initiatives that foster a productive, supportive, and engaging team culture for local and remote staff.
Shape Strategy: * Collaborate with group leadership to set priorities, make key decisions, and evolve and communicate the group vision and strategy.
* Proactively identify talent needs, lead recruiting and hiring efforts, and ensure effective onboarding of new staff.
* Establish and execute a section strategy focused on positioning your team to provide impactful modeling and simulation contributions to Precision Strike missions and cross-APL initiatives.
Support Group Operations: * Support the Group Supervisor and Assistant Group Supervisors on group functions including labor planning, resource planning, facility management, and security guidance.
* Implement and engage in initiatives to make the workplace environment productive, stimulating, and fun.
* Perform duties in a manner consistent with FPS leadership responsibilities and expectations (http://FPSLeadership).
* Qualifications You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you... * Have a Bachelor's degree in engineering, applied mathematics, computer science, physics, or another related field.
* Have at least five years of relevant work experience in modeling, simulation and analysis, including significant experience in a lead role.
* Have proficiency using MATLAB, and/or Python for analysis on Linux operating systems.
* Have technical expertise in one or more of the following areas (or similar): sensor and data fusion, RF physics and sensors, EO/IR sensors, communications networks, statistical analysis, mathematical optimization, tracking.
* Have domain knowledge in some of the following areas: ISR processes, systems, platforms, and sensors used by the US military and intelligence community; Navy and Air Force kill chain concepts; targeting, C2, and mission planning processes and tools; threat systems, weapon platforms and systems, and communications networks.
* Have strong inter-personal and written communications skills.
* Have strong coaching and mentoring skills and motivation.
* Have skills and experience leading teams and complex technical efforts.
* Have the ability to work and collaborate effectively in a team environment.
* Have the ability to multi-task, support multiple, concurrent projects, and adapt to changing circumstances.
* Hold an active Top Secret security clearance 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.
You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you... * Have a Master's or Doctorate degree in engineering, applied mathematics, computer science, physics, or another related field.
* Have experience in team building, leadership development, cultivating strong relationships and collaborations across organizational boundaries, and making major contributions to solving critical national problems.
* Have experience using mission level toolsets like AFSIM or CLCSIM.
* Have meaningful experience in applying modeling and simulation to ISRT or BMC2 applications.
* Hold an active TS/SCI-level security 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 $105,000 Annually Maximum Rate $275,000 Annually