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Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory · 1 month ago

Uncrewed Aerial Systems Networking and Communications Engineer

Laurel, Maryland

Full-time

Onsite

Mid, Senior Level

$100K/yr - $228K/yr

3+ years exp

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory is dedicated to addressing critical defense, security, and scientific challenges. They are seeking a UAS Networking & Communications Engineer to design and manage communication networks for uncrewed aerial systems, ensuring reliable data links and integrating communication subsystems in complex environments.

EducationUniversities

No H1B

Security Clearance Required

U.S. Citizen Only

Responsibilities

Design, implement, and manage robust and resilient communication networks for cutting-edge uncrewed aerial systems (UAS)

Lead the integration and field testing of communication subsystems, ensuring reliable data links for command and control (C2), telemetry, and high-bandwidth payload data in complex operational environments

Deploy and configure a variety of networking solutions, from simple point-to-point links to complex, multi-node mobile ad hoc networks (MANETs) for swarming and cooperative behaviors

Evaluate, select, and test appropriate RF hardware, including radios, antennas, and associated components, based on mission requirements such as range, throughput, anti-jam capabilities, and Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP)

Troubleshoot and resolve complex connectivity issues spanning the physical (RF), data link, and network layers, both in the lab and during live flight test operations

Investigate and prototype emerging communication technologies (e.g., LoRa, tactical MANETs, 5G, SATCOM) to develop novel capabilities for operating in GPS-denied or communications-contested environments

Qualification

Network integrationRF systemsNetworking principlesUAS flight controllersScripting languageMobile Ad Hoc NetworkingLong-range communication protocolsRF test equipmentProblem-solving skillsHands-on mindsetTeam collaboration

Required

Hold a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field

Have at least 3+ years of hands-on experience with network integration, RF systems or communications for: robotic, aerospace, or uncrewed systems

Possess a strong foundational knowledge of networking principles (TCP/IP, UDP, routing, subnetting)

Have demonstrated experience setting up and troubleshooting IP-based networks in a lab or field environment

Are familiar with fundamental RF communications concepts (e.g., link budgets, antenna selection, interference)

Possess excellent problem-solving skills and a hands-on, 'build and test' mindset

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

Preferred

Have an MS or higher in a relevant engineering field

Have 5+ years of relevant experience, particularly in a Test and Evaluation (T&E) environment for defense or aerospace systems

Possess deep expertise in Mobile Ad Hoc Networking (MANET) protocols and technologies

Have hands-on experience with long-range, low-power communication protocols such as LoRa/LoRaWAN and mesh networking frameworks

Have direct experience with UAS flight controllers and ground control station software (e.g., PX4, ArduPilot, Mission Planner, QGroundControl)

Hold an active FCC Amateur Radio license

Are proficient in a scripting language (e.g., Python, Bash) for test automation, data parsing, and network analysis

Have experience with RF test equipment such as spectrum analyzers and vector signal analyzers

Hold an active TS/SCI level security clearance

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

Laurel, Maryland, USA

5001-10000 employees