2026 Internship - Engineering for Communications Systems

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory • Laurel, MD

74d • $22 - $47

About The Position

Are you interested in solving complex problems, and contributing to valuable solutions to challenging, real-world problems? As part of the Nuclear Command Communications Systems Group (QKR) you will have the opportunity to learn from experts in the field of Nuclear Command Control Communications (NC3) and contribute to current mission critical projects. Our group strikes a balance between software, hardware, and data science focus areas to deliver key findings to sponsor organizations across their full operational systems. If you are currently pursuing a degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Data Science, Electrical Engineering, Radio Frequency Engineering, Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering, Statistics, Physics, or other related technical degrees, we'd love to have you join our team! We are seeking Engineering Interns across three focus areas and will match you based on your interests and skills. Collaboration across tracks is common.

Requirements

• 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.
• Skilled in and/or have knowledge of one or more programming languages such as 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.
• Able to obtain Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain Top Secret level clearance.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with RF characterization and waveform development/prototyping.
• Hands-on work with SDRs, GNU Radio, microcontrollers, or DSP.
• Familiarity with Linux environments.
• Experience with Agile development.
• Experience with SQL and relational databases; data curation, data visualization.
• Interest in RF or TCP/IP network communications.
• Interest in modeling & simulation and analyzing mission-relevant data.
• Experience with Git, Docker/containers, and basic CI workflows.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Benefits

• Generous benefits including a 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.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern
• Industry: Educational Services
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees