A4 Non-Kinetic Warfare Branch Chief Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory • Laurel, MD

23d

About The Position

Do you thrive on guiding complex, multidisciplinary efforts from concept to fieldable capability?
Are you passionate about aligning engineering execution with long-term strategic vision?
If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL!
The A4 Non-Kinetic Warfare Branch is seeking a forward-thinking, innovative technical leader to serve as Branch Chief Engineer. The successful candidate will be a highly respected member of the DOW community with demonstrated technical depth, systems engineering rigor, and the ability to lead complex, high-impact engineering efforts. This individual will be instrumental in strengthening the Branch’s technical excellence, advancing strategic core competencies, and mentoring high-performing staff to develop and deliver innovative, mission-relevant capabilities aligned with AMDS strategic intent.
As a Chief Engineer you will...
Provide Technical Leadership and Engineering Rigor
Establish and uphold engineering standards, technical quality, and systems integration discipline across the Branch.
Maintain awareness of state-of-the-art developments in relevant technical domains and ensure their appropriate integration into Branch competencies.
Lead by example in applying sound engineering principles to complex, multidisciplinary challenges.
Partner closely with the A4 Chief Scientist to mature and transition S&T concepts into robust, fieldable systems aligned with AMDS strategy.
Serve as Senior Engineering Authority
Advise Branch and Group Supervisors on complex technical and programmatic engineering matters.
Provide expert insight into design decisions, risk mitigation, and integration challenges.
Lead or contribute to technical reviews and quality assessments across the Branch.
Serve as a central engineering resource for technical leaders in the Branch.
Strengthen cross-Branch and cross-Sector technical collaboration to enable execution of APL and AMDS strategic objectives.
Lead and make direct technical contributions to critical, high-visibility programs.
Identify and develop new core engineering competencies in emerging mission-critical technologies.
Align Engineering Execution with Strategy
Contribute to the development and refinement of Branch strategic priorities.
Ensure engineering execution aligns with AMDS strategic intent and focus areas.
Maintain visibility into technical progress across programs and ensure appropriate rigor, pace, and risk management.
Advance Technical Growth and Capability
Initiate and support novel engineering concepts and technical studies.
Contribute to white papers and proposals to secure internal and external funding.
Mentor and develop engineering staff, strengthening technical depth and leadership across the Branch.
Enable Collaboration and Program Growth
Work closely with Program Managers and other Branches to develop collaboration opportunities and new programs.
Support development of strong technical relationships with sponsors and partners.

Requirements

• Possess a M.S. or higher in Engineering or related technical field.
• Have a minimum of 10 years of professional experience.
• Possess relevant experience in at least two of the following areas: Electronic Warfare Directed Energy Cyber Warfare Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Autonomy Advanced Communication Systems and Networks Engagement Coordination and Engagement Control Signal Processing
• Have demonstrated success leading complex engineering efforts and high-visibility programs.
• Have proven ability to build and lead multidisciplinary teams and integrate complex systems.
• Demonstrated technical depth and breadth with effective leadership skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, or equivalent high-quality classified documentation and technical briefings.
• Hold an active Top Secret security 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.

Nice To Haves

• Have a PhD in a STEM field.
• Have 15+ years of professional experience.
• Possess detailed knowledge of the AMD Sector’s programs, sponsors, and current and emerging engineering challenges.
• Have prior APL line management experience.

Responsibilities

• Establish and uphold engineering standards, technical quality, and systems integration discipline across the Branch.
• Maintain awareness of state-of-the-art developments in relevant technical domains and ensure their appropriate integration into Branch competencies.
• Lead by example in applying sound engineering principles to complex, multidisciplinary challenges.
• Partner closely with the A4 Chief Scientist to mature and transition S&T concepts into robust, fieldable systems aligned with AMDS strategy.
• Advise Branch and Group Supervisors on complex technical and programmatic engineering matters.
• Provide expert insight into design decisions, risk mitigation, and integration challenges.
• Lead or contribute to technical reviews and quality assessments across the Branch.
• Serve as a central engineering resource for technical leaders in the Branch.
• Strengthen cross-Branch and cross-Sector technical collaboration to enable execution of APL and AMDS strategic objectives.
• Lead and make direct technical contributions to critical, high-visibility programs.
• Identify and develop new core engineering competencies in emerging mission-critical technologies.
• Contribute to the development and refinement of Branch strategic priorities.
• Ensure engineering execution aligns with AMDS strategic intent and focus areas.
• Maintain visibility into technical progress across programs and ensure appropriate rigor, pace, and risk management.
• Initiate and support novel engineering concepts and technical studies.
• Contribute to white papers and proposals to secure internal and external funding.
• Mentor and develop engineering staff, strengthening technical depth and leadership across the Branch.
• Work closely with Program Managers and other Branches to develop collaboration opportunities and new programs.
• Support development of strong technical relationships with sponsors and partners.

Benefits

• 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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level