Simulation Operations Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

Are you searching for important work at the intersection of National Security Analysis and advanced Modeling & Simulation (M&S)?

Are you passionate about using simulation tools to analyze complex operational problems and inform real-world decisions?

If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL, applying mission-level modeling and simulation to some of the nation’s most challenging security problems.

In this role, you will utilize modeling and simulation tools—particularly AFSIM—to evaluate operational concepts, analyze system performance, and support decision-making across a range of national security missions.

Working within the Advanced Mission Modeling and AI Group (JAM) in the National Security Analysis Department (NSAD), you will contribute directly to mission-focused studies that inform DoW and Combatant Command priorities.

As a National Security M&S Analyst, you will...

• Develop, configure, and execute simulation-based analyses using frameworks such as AFSIM and related tools.
• Translate real-world operational questions into simulation scenarios and analyze outcomes to generate actionable insights.
• Support mission studies by evaluating system performance, force interactions, and operational effectiveness in contested environments.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to integrate modeling results into broader analytic efforts.
• Document assumptions, methodologies, and results clearly to support reproducibility and decision-making.

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

• Possess a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Physics, Mathematics, Operations Research, Computer Science, or a closely related technical field.
• Have at least three years of relevant experience in modeling and simulation, operations analysis, or related analytic work.
• Have experience applying simulation tools to analyze complex systems or operational scenarios.
• Have familiarity with one or more M&S frameworks (e.g., AFSIM, STK, NGTS, STORM, or similar).
• Possess strong analytical and problem-solving skills, particularly in translating real-world problems into structured analysis.
• Are able to communicate technical findings clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Have basic scripting or programming experience (e.g., Python) to support analysis workflows.
• 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.

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

• Have direct experience using AFSIM for mission-level analysis.
• Have experience building and connecting Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) tools to M&S
• Have experience supporting DoD or IC analytic efforts or wargaming environments.
• Possess familiarity with scenario development, force modeling, and campaign-level analysis.
• Have experience working in multidisciplinary analytic teams.
• Have experience briefing analytic results to senior stakeholders.

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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  .

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.