Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab

Weapon System Analyst

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab$100K — $245K *
Aerospace & Defense
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Physics, Applied Math, Applied Statistics, Engineering, or closely related field
  • 1+ years of professional experience in data analysis or physics-based modeling
  • Strong programming skills in C++, MATLAB, or Python
  • Solid understanding of linear algebra, calculus, and basic probability/statistics
  • Desire to learn about complex physical systems with technical documentation proficiency
  • Ability to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance

Responsibilities

  • Develop high-fidelity physics-based models of complex systems
  • Lead experimental design for flight and ground tests to optimize data collection
  • Perform statistical validation using real-world data to evaluate model accuracy
  • Apply advanced statistical techniques to identify causes of observed effects
  • Build computational frameworks using C++, MATLAB, or Python for analysis reporting
  • Assess accuracy of current strategic weapon systems
  • Support engineering of future systems to meet mission requirements

Benefits

  • Collaborative multidisciplinary team environment
  • Opportunities for technical skill advancement
  • Involvement in strategic defense initiatives
  • Work on cutting-edge modeling and evaluation techniques
  • Potential for growth into roles requiring higher security clearance
Full Job Description
Description

The System Modeling, Evaluation, and Planning Group is seeking experienced analysts to support the technical evaluation of the nation's primary strategic deterrents. You will join a multidisciplinary team of engineers, physicists, and mathematicians.

As a Weapon System Analyst you will...
  • Develop and Refine Physics Models by creating and improve high-fidelity physics-based models of complex systems, including inertial navigation (accelerometers, gyroscopes) and missile/reentry dynamics.
  • Lead the experimental design process for flight and ground tests to ensure data collection is optimized for model validation and parameter estimation.
  • Perform Statistical Validation by leveraging real-world collected data to estimate underlying physics-based errors, using statistical methods to determine how well models predict actual system behavior.
  • Apply advanced statistical techniques to "work backward" from observed data to identify the physical properties or errors that caused the observed effect.
  • Build Computational Frameworks by developing robust tools in C++ , MATLAB, or Python to facilitate analyses for important reports and deliverables.
  • Assess the accuracy of current strategic weapon systems and support the engineering of future systems to meet mission needs.

Qualifications

You meet our minimum requirements if you...
  • Hold a Bachelor's degree in Physics, Applied Math, Applied Statistics, Engineering, or a closely related field.
  • Have one or more years of professional experience in data analysis or physics-based modeling
  • Have strong foundational skills in a scientific language (C++, MATLAB, or Python).
  • A solid grasp of linear algebra, calculus, and basic probability/statistics.
  • A strong desire to learn complex physical systems and a willingness to dive deep into technical documentation
  • Are able to acquire an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately acquire a final Top Secret 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 exceed our minimum requirements with experience in any of the following...
  • Statistical analysis, parameter estimation and inverse problems, Kalman filtering, experimental design, Bayesian inference (e.g., MCMC), or Maximum Likelihood Estimation
  • Have experience working in large collaborative environments that require teams of engineers, physicists, statisticians, and applied mathematicians
  • Prior experience with tactical or strategic missile systems, or prior experience with inertial navigation systems
  • Hold an active Secret or higher-level clearance

Minimum Rate

$100,000 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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