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Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory · 3 months ago

2026 Internship - Engineering for Communications Systems

Laurel, MD

Internship

Onsite

Intern

$22.60/hr - $47.95/hr

Start in 2026

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory is dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies. They are seeking Engineering Interns to contribute to mission-critical projects in Nuclear Command Control Communications, working across software, hardware, and data science focus areas.

EducationUniversities

No H1B

Security Clearance Required

U.S. Citizen Only

Responsibilities

Develop features and services in Python, Java, C#, or JavaScript/TypeScript

Build and extend tools for modeling & simulation and operational technologies

Contribute in a larger team with code reviews, issues, CI, and Agile rituals

Prototype and evaluate waveforms; perform RF characterization of components and subsystems

Work with MATLAB/Simulink, Python, GNU Radio, and software-defined radios (SDRs)

Use RF lab instrumentation (spectrum/network analyzers, signal generators); support hardware-in-the-loop tests

Model communications systems (link budgets, channel models, Monte Carlo simulations)

Apply statistics, optimization, or ML to communications and network data

Create analyses and visualizations in Python or MATLAB

Research solutions for secure, resilient strategic communications to support crucial missions of national security

Perform performance evaluations on communications hardware for strategic assets such as bombers, submarines, and launch control facilities

Evaluate operational scenarios through modeling and simulation, analysis, and laboratory testing

Develop software in a language such as Python, Java, C#, MATLAB, or JavaScript

Work as a core contributor to a project in a larger team environment

Be paired with a senior engineering mentor

Participate in Agile activities such as stand ups, retrospectives, and code reviews

Learn about software or hardware development in a real-world communications environment

Present individual contributions to senior staff and potentially to sponsors

Qualification

PythonMATLABSoftware DevelopmentJavaC#Data ScienceSignal ProcessingNetwork CommunicationsAgile DevelopmentInterpersonal SkillsOral CommunicationWritten Communication

Required

Currently pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Data Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Radio Frequency Engineering, Math, Statistics, Physics, or other related technical area

Have a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale

Are skilled in and/or have knowledge of one or more of the below areas

Object Oriented Programming in a language like Python, Java, C#, MATLAB, or JavaScript

Demonstrated experience in Software Development from a previous internship, software course work, or personal projects

Scientific computing and signal processing in MATLAB/Simulink, GNU Radio, or experience with lab instrumentation using SDRs, microcontrollers, DSP, etc

Modeling & analysis (data structures/algorithms, statistics, numerical methods, simulation)

Network communications (TCP/IP concepts, protocols)

Can work effectively both independently and in teams and possess strong interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills

Are able to obtain Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain 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

Preferred

Have experience with RF characterization and waveform development/prototyping

Have hands-on work with SDRs, GNU Radio, microcontrollers, or DSP

Are familiar with Linux environments

Have experience with Agile development

Have experience with SQL and relational databases; data curation, data visualization

Have interest in RF or TCP/IP network communications

Have interest in modeling & simulation and analyzing mission-relevant data

Experience with Git, Docker/containers, and basic CI workflows

Benefits

Generous benefits

Robust education assistance program

Unparalleled retirement contributions

Healthy work/life balance

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

Company

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

The Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) is a not-for-profit university-affiliated research center (UARC) that provides solutions to complex national security and scientific challenges with technical expertise and prototyping, research and development, and analysis.

Founded in 1942