Job Description

Are you searching for impactful work in rarefied gas dynamics and Direct Simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC), especially in the area of aerodynamic modeling of spacecraft in very Low Earth Orbit (vLEO)?

Are you passionate about furthering the state of the art in particle methods analysis?

Do you enjoy working with a team of forward-thinking engineers who want to improve our capability of predicting impacts of air-breathing inlet design at vLEO?

If so, we’re looking for someone like you to join our APL team!

We are seeking an engineer to help us develop software capable of modeling and simulating aerodynamic performance of air-breathing inlets for vLEO applications. This may require modifying existing DSMC codes to accurately capture the particle-surface interactions that occur in that prescribed regime. While also serving as a member of our team, you will contribute to exciting projects supporting the U.S. Department of Defense and work alongside experts who have a real passion for conducting state-of-the-art research to advance our country’s capabilities!

As an engineer in our group….

• Your primary responsibility will be using your rarefied gas dynamics expertise to help develop tools capable of modeling and simulating various air-breathing inlet configurations at vLEO conditions.
• You will lead and contribute to planning activities for future projects and initiatives while providing technical guidance for ongoing projects.
• You will craft reports and presentations to communicate technical results to team members and government partners.

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

• Have a Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Mathematics or another related technical discipline.
• Have experience in rarefied gas dynamics/kinetic theory and with associated modeling/simulation tools.
• Have prior coding experience with C/C++, FORTRAN, Python, and MATLAB.
• Have excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Are willing and able to travel occasionally to attend meetings or tests at other government and contractor sites.
• Are able to obtain Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain 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.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...

• Have a PhD degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Mathematics or another related technical discipline.
• Have five years of experience with existing DSMC tools.
• Have demonstrated initiative, motivation, and flexibility in carrying out independent research and development with limited oversight.
• Have technical experience in electric propulsion (EP) applications.
• Have demonstrated leadership skills.

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 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 www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

APL is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. 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 promoting an innovative environment that embraces diversity, encourages creativity, and supports inclusion of new ideas. In doing so, we are 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. Only by ensuring that everyone’s voice is heard are we empowered to be bold, do great things, and make the world a better place.

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