2026 Graduate - Cybersecurity Engineer - Constrained Cyber Solutions

Do you love to push the bounds of science and technology while solving some of the most important problems facing our Nation?

Are you searching for meaningful work developing innovative and sophisticated cyber capabilities?

If you are graduating with a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Cybersecurity, Space Systems Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, or a related field, and want to contribute to cyber solutions that defend US constrained military and space systems, we'd love to have you join our team!

We are seeking computer scientists, engineers, and mathematicians to help us build novel solutions for numerous US Government sponsor agencies and departments. Together, we solve complex technical challenges at the intersection of software, hardware, and cyber operations. Our team works collaboratively with industry, academia, and government to study, design, develop, implement, and test cyber capabilities applied to air, space, afloat, ground, and undersea platforms and systems. We value creativity, collaboration, and the open exchange of ideas, and we believe in learning, experimenting, and professional growth.

As a member of our team...

• Your primary responsibility will be to work on state-of-the art areas of research and development such as, but not limited to:
  • Advanced Cryptography: Research, develop, and operationalize novel encryption methodologies.
  • RF-Enabled Cyber: Apply radio frequency (RF) and cyber concepts for capability development, integration, test, and evaluation.
  • Embedded Solutions: Apply hardware design and engineering for constrained system cyber use cases.
  • Offensive Security: Analyze potential cyber vulnerabilities in systems and understand their mission impact
  • Space Cybersecurity: Research and grow space system cybersecurity methods and capabilities for system resilience and cyber advantage.
• You will research capability gaps in current platforms and build solutions as part of a team with a variety of STEM-related backgrounds (systems engineering, software, hardware, physics, mathematics).
• You will work alongside extraordinary cyber and engineering professionals to solve challenges vital to national security.
• You'll gain experience giving technical briefings and presentations.
• You will have access to internal funding opportunities to craft the direction of future research.

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

• Are pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Cybersecurity, Space Systems Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, or a related field a related field.
• Have experience with at least one of the following: Python, Rust, VHDL, Verilog, C, C++, Java, MATLAB, or another popular programming language.
• Have an educational background or demonstrated interest in at least one of the following categories:
  • Advanced Cryptography: Experience in algorithm development or understanding of current cryptographic approaches. Experience implementing cryptographic algorithms using languages such as C, C++, and Python.
  • RF-Enabled Cyber: RF networking and communications experience or background.
  • Embedded Solutions: Low-level programming in C, C++, or Rust; FGPA development skills; or analog circuit design experience.
  • Offensive Security: Experience cyber vulnerability assessment or reverse engineering of either hardware or software systems.
  • Space Cybersecurity: Experience with space vehicle design, emulation, or familiarity with flight software development.
• Are able to obtain a 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 previous relevant experience in internships, professional roles, or personal work in the categories listed under the minimum requirements.
• Have skills working with a wide variety of computer systems, such as:
• Linux/Unix operating systems
• Software application development experience
• Hardware programming experience
• Have skills in offensive or defensive cyber (e.g. experience from university cybersecurity competitions such as Capture the Flags, Hackathons, Clubs, etc.).
• Have an active 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.