Uncrewed Aerial System Design and Integration Engineer

Are you interested in working in multi-disciplinary teams to advance the state-of-the-art in autonomous systems, uncrewed air systems, artificial intelligence, software design, embedded systems, virtual reality, and simulation?

Are you interested in applying your skills to conceive, design, prototype and test new capabilities in intelligent autonomous systems that will save US warfighter's lives and ensure our nation's preeminence?

If you answered "yes" to either of these questions, we are looking for someone like you to join our team in the Intelligent Combat Systems Group at APL!

Who are we?

We are the Intelligent Combat Systems Group, and our mission focus is to ensure our Nation maintains the operational advantage on the future battlefield through foundational advances in artificial intelligence, autonomy, manned-unmanned teaming and novel unmanned aircraft (e.g. drones) design and testing. We believe the future of warfare will be defined by intelligent autonomous systems capable of fighting with machine precision at machine speeds. Whether it is developing the intelligence that drives autonomous wingmen behaviors, integrated real-time collaboration tools and data analytic architectures, or novel AI design tools and software, the Intelligent Combat Systems Group is at the forefront. Three of our recent game-changing projects (DARPA Air Combat Evolution, AFRL Golden Horde, and Air Force SkyBorg) are featured in recent news articles, highlighting our impact and innovation.

We are seeking inquisitive and creative team members who like to tackle challenging problems to help us build the next generation of autonomous combat systems and shape the future of warfare. Our team is an entrepreneurial and multidisciplinary team committed to developing technical talent, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration, while having fun with what we do!

As a UAS Design and Integration Engineer, you will:

• Lead the hands-on integration of avionics, payloads, and propulsion systems, taking novel uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) from CAD models and bare airframes to flight-ready vehicles.
• Perform the complete mechanical and electrical build of UAS platforms, including composite fabrication and repair, component installation, custom wiring harnesses, and soldering.
• Serve as a key member of the field test team, responsible for pre-flight checks, ground station operation, system troubleshooting, and post-flight data analysis.
• Configure, tune, and validate UAS flight control systems, working directly with autopilot software and performing sensor calibrations and GNC gain tuning to optimize flight performance.
• Contribute to the overall system design by conducting trade studies on components (sensors, actuators, power systems) and providing practical feedback to the design team based on real-world integration and flight experience.
• Develop and execute system-level test plans to verify and validate vehicle performance against mission requirements.

You meet the minimum requirements for the job if you...

• Have a Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• Have demonstrated experience of direct, hands-on design, building, integrating, and/or testing of custom uncrewed aerial systems (UAS).
• Possess experience in the mechanical and electrical assembly of complex aerospace systems, including proficiency in soldering, wiring, and hardware troubleshooting.
• Are proficient with modern UAS autopilot systems (e.g., PX4, ArduPilot) and their associated ground control software.
• Have a strong, practical understanding of core UAS subsystems, including avionics, GNC, propulsion, and electrical systems.
• 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 3+ years of relevant professional experience, with a deep background in real-world flight systems.
• Hold a current FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate and have significant logged flight hours on a variety of UAS platforms.
• Possess deep expertise in avionics integration, including the selection, installation, and checkout of a wide range of sensors and flight system hardware.
• Have experience with composite fabrication techniques (e.g., wet layup, pre-preg, bonding) for building and modifying airframes.
• Demonstrate strong experience in flight control (GNC) gain tuning, especially for non-standard or VTOL aircraft.
• Are proficient with CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks) for component design and integration planning.
• Have experience developing CONEMP (Concept of Employment) and mission system designs for UAS.
• Hold an active TS/SCI level security clearance

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.