Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab

2026 PhD Graduate - Robotic/Autonomous Systems Engineer - Maritime Robotics Group

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab$105K — $245K *
Aerospace & Defense
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • PhD in Computer Science, Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
  • Skilled in software or mechanical design methodologies for robotic systems.
  • Passionate about learning and applying new skills.
  • Effective team collaborator.
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale, with unofficial transcripts required.
  • Eligible for an Interim Secret security clearance and a final Secret Clearance.

Responsibilities

  • Prototype next-generation robotic solutions for Navy challenges.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to address software and hardware problems.
  • Rapidly prototype solutions from conception to field testing.

Benefits

  • Collaborative development environment with diverse engineering talent.
  • Opportunities to work on challenging, real-world problems in robotics.
  • Focus on innovation and professional growth.
Full Job Description
Description

Are you passionate about developing solutions to challenging problems in the field of robotics?

Do you love working in a collaborative environment with engineers of varied backgrounds and experiences?

If you are graduating with a PhD degree in Computer Science, Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field and wish to work on some of the most challenging technical problems in robotics, we'd love to have you join our team! We are seeking engineers with educational experience and interest that aligns with the broad, exciting field of robotics. You will join a hardworking team of engineers in a collaborative development environment that spans software, hardware, and field testing. Our team works across a broad range of disciplines including machine perception, autonomous decision-making, data fusion, control systems, and mechanical design with applications across Uncrewed Air, Sea Surface, and Underwater vehicles. We are passionate about creating novel robotic solutions for our nation's Navy as well as committed to developing exceptional engineering talent and fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration.

As a member of our team..
  • Your primary responsibilty will be to prototype next-generation robotic solutions to help address critical challenges facing our Navy.
  • You will work on highly collaborative, multidisciplinary teams to solve problems that span both software and hardware.
  • You will be part of an outstanding, dedicated team of engineers with deep experience in rapidly prototyping solutions from conception through field testing.

Qualifications

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Have a PhD in Computer Science, Robotics, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
  • Are skilled in software or mechanical design methodologies and techniques that can be applied to robotic systems
  • Have a passion for learning and a willingness to pick up and apply new skills.
  • Have the ability to work and collaborate effectively in a team environment.
  • Have a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale. Note: When prompted to upload attachments, please include a copy of your college transcripts (unofficial transcripts are acceptable).
  • Are able to obtain a Interim Secret security clearance to start and a final Secret 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 research, classroom, or professional experience working closely with robotic systems, autonomous systems, or machine perception (including machine learning) algorithms.
  • Have experience developing in a modern, collaborative software or hardware development environment.
  • Possess a current active Secret clearance.


Minimum Rate

$105,000 Annually

Maximum Rate

$245,000 Annually

About Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) is a research and development organization that provides solutions to national security and scientific challenges. The laboratory was founded in 1942 and is located in Laurel, Maryland. APL is a division of the Johns Hopkins University and is a not-for-profit organization. The laboratory has expertise in a variety of areas, including space exploration, national security, and healthcare.
Learn more about Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab
Size
7,000 employees
Industry
Founded
1942

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