2026 PhD Graduate – Intelligent Autonomous Systems and Artificial Intelligence Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory develops technologies addressing critical defense, security, space, and science challenges. The 2026 PhD Graduate – Intelligent Autonomous Systems and Artificial Intelligence Engineer will work on multidisciplinary teams to design, prototype, simulate, and test intelligent autonomous systems and AI capabilities for future warfighters and uncrewed platforms.

What you'll do:

• Work on collaborative teams in one or more areas: intelligent control and decision-making, human-machine collaboration, networked and teamed systems, software/hardware design, multi-faceted algorithm development, complex battlefield management, and next generation autonomous air platforms
• Prototype and simulate AI systems by writing code, developing software (simulation and visualization), creating algorithms, interfacing software/hardware, and supporting real-time demonstrations of autonomy in live, virtual, and simulation test environments
• Collaborate with the nation’s leading experts in AI and work with an outstanding team of engineers, scientists, and software developers to deliver powerful capabilities to the warfighter

What they're looking for:

• Have a PhD Degree in a STEM area
• Are skilled in C++ and/or Python and have knowledge of software design patterns
• Have experience with applications for physical systems such as mechanical, aerospace, or robotics (e.g. Unmanned Aerial Systems)
• Have classroom or professional experience with artificial intelligence and autonomy algorithms
• Are able to obtain an interim Secret security clearance by your start date, and ultimately a Top Secret clearance
• Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship
• Have classroom or professional experience working with any of our core skills: autonomous systems, artificial intelligence, deep/reinforcement/machine learning, robotics, dynamics and controls, flight test and evaluation, modeling and simulation, avionics and sensors, aerodynamics, air combat platform design, data science, and statistical analysis
• Have experience in military/department operations and acquisition processes
• Have experience developing in a modern software development environment that includes automated testing, continuous integration and deployment, and "DevSecOps" environments
• Have proficiency in additional programming languages (C, C#, Java, MATLAB), cloud computing, and configuration management
• Have completed any certifications or internships

Benefits:

• Generous benefits
• A robust education assistance program
• Unparalleled retirement contributions
• A healthy work/life balance
• Bonuses or other forms of compensation may be offered per internal policy and/or contractual designation
• Sign-on bonus
• Relocation benefits
• Locality allowance
• Discretionary payments for exceptional performance
• Retirement plans