2026 Graduate - Software Developer - Tactical System Prototyping and Deployment

Do you have an interest in developing software for new warfighter capabilities. Are you passionate about using innovation and technology to solve technical challenges?

If you are graduating with a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Mathematics or, Electrical Engineering and want to work as a software developer or software engineer, we'd love to have you join our close-knit prototyping team! We build capabilities that enable warfighters to harness different set of sensors and data sources to accomplish a variety of missions that are important to the defense of our nation.

Our team is committed to working directly with warfighters to craft solutions from concept to operational use. We strive to foster an environment that is highly collaborative and supportive, but also encourages autonomy. Our team values are putting the warfighter and their missions first, accepting that you might not get it right the first time, but being resolved to see it through, and being dedicated to making real impact.

As a Software Development Engineer, you will...

• Research and develop concepts to solve unaddressed, critical military operational shortfalls as a member of an established team that has fielded numerous highly regarded capabilities. Subject areas differ widely over time, but our current projects focus on improving the exploitation of airborne and ground based sensor data through object tracking, multi-sensor correlation, data management, and operational data display as well as on intelligent networks, resilient autonomy, and non-kinetic warfare integration.
• Perform system design and software implementation of proof-of-concept prototypes incorporating several engineering fields: software development, signal/video processing, artificial intelligence, real-time computing, applied mathematics, network/web services, and visualization.
• Support prototype evaluation, experimental operations at military facilities, and transitions of capabilities to government or industry.

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

• Have a BS or MS in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Mathematics, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
• Completed coursework or internships involving complex software development, particularly in the areas of object oriented programming, database design, signal processing, artificial intelligence, machine learning, data visualization, and user interfaces.
• Can occasionally travel and work at government and military facilities, including underway on US Navy ships and aircraft requiring work outside of and in excess of normal working hours.
• Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and ultimately obtain a final Secret level security 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...

• Knowledge of C++, Java, or Typescript in a Linux/Unix environment.
• Desire to build computer science/software development expertise to address emerging challenges.
• Interest and initiative to grow into a leadership position.

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 http://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 Accommodations@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.