Prototype Tester Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Are you passionate about designing and prototyping cutting‑edge electrical systems for real‑world maritime applications?

Do you enjoy solving complex electrical design challenges, integrating shipboard systems, and developing rapid prototypes that are tested at sea?

Are you skilled in electrical design and hands‑on characterization in a fast‑paced environment?

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

We are seeking an Electrical Engineer (Rapid Prototyping) with a strong background in rapid development and hardware integration (PCB design, embedded hardware, etc.) to support advanced shipboard electronics—from initial concept through rapid prototyping and field testing. You’ll work alongside a multidisciplinary team to design, build, and deliver innovative systems that directly impact national security missions at sea.

• Create novel, custom solutions to unique challenges while advancing the field of maritime electronics.
• Develop maritime electrical systems by applying skills in analog, digital, and RF design for rapid fielding.
• Perform testing and design verification for systems in both a lab environment and during integration onto U.S. Navy platforms.
• Document designs and technical reports to support electrical integration and installation on maritime platforms.
• Develop emerging technologies and prototypes to evaluate new capabilities.

You meet our minimum requirements for the job if you…

• Possess a B.S. in Electrical Engineering or a related technical field.
• Have 7+ years of relevant experience in the design, assembly, and testing of electrical systems.
• Have a strong curiosity and desire to learn new things.
• Have experience working in a fast‑paced, quick‑turnaround environment.
• Demonstrate proficiency in circuit design and embedded systems.
• Have hands‑on experience with lab equipment (e.g., spectrum/network analyzers, signal generators, oscilloscopes, power supplies).
• Have experience with Printed Circuit Board (PCB) design and PCB design tools (such as Altium Designer).
• Have experience solving custom hardware at the component and circuit level.
• Are willing to work periodically on U.S. Navy vessels alongside a team of technical experts.
• Can support CONUS travel required for meetings and testing, including potential short‑duration embarkations on U.S. Naval vessels.
• Are able to obtain an interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Top Secret clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to Top Secret classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You’ll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you…

• Possess an M.S. in Electrical Engineering or equivalent experience.
• Have a strong background in rapid prototyping and quick‑turn development.
• Have experience with advanced PCB design techniques.
• Possess experience across the full hardware development lifecycle—from concept through field deployment.
• Have demonstrated the ability to balance multiple competing priorities to maintain project momentum.
• Demonstrate the ability to engineer creative, out‑of‑the‑box strategies to guide teams through tight project constraints.
• Have experience with Navy electronics, shipboard installations/procedures, and the Navy’s Temporary Alteration (TEMPALT) process.
• Hold an active Top Secret level security clearance.

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