Space Operational Test and Evaluation Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory•Laurel, MD

9h•Onsite

About The Position

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) is seeking a Test and Evaluation (T&E) professional to support the development, coordination, execution, and assessment of operational test architectures for United States Space Force (USSF) and National Security Space Mission Area (NSSMA) programs. This role is crucial for advancing operational test and evaluation efforts that support critical national security space missions. The successful candidate will apply advanced knowledge of T&E methodologies, including verification and validation (V&V), test planning, data analysis, and hardware/software integration in complex operational environments. This role requires close collaboration with Department of Defense stakeholders, development of test documentation and strategies, and delivery of actionable insights to ensure mission effectiveness and support critical national security space capabilities.

Requirements

Hold a BS. in engineering, physical sciences, mathematics or related technical field
Have at least 5 years of experience in testing DoD and/or IC-developed space systems
Demonstrated strong analytical problem-solving skills
Experience with data analysis tools such as Python, MATLAB, and JMP
Strong written and verbal communication skills with experience preparing briefings, and test reports
Hold an active TS/SCI 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 an advanced degree in Physics, Space Systems Engineering, or related STEM with 10+ years of relevant experience
Background in space systems, satellite operations, or orbital mechanics
Demonstrated experience designing and conducting test campaigns
Experience with hardware-in-the-loop (HWIL) and software-in-the-loop (SWIL) testing
Familiarity with modeling and simulation, digital engineering, and Monte Carlo analysis
Experience with astrodynamics modeling tools such as STK, GMAT, FreeFlyer, or Orekit
Formal training in T&E methodologies
Experience directly supporting DoD space defense test programs

Responsibilities

Develop and document test campaigns, clearly articulating objectives and measures of performance.
Analyze test data and provide clear and actionable insights through reports.
Collaborate with system engineering, software, hardware, and operations teams to ensure test coverage and traceability.
Assist in development of modeling and simulation environments to supplement physical testing.
Develop and maintain test scripts, tools, and automation frameworks.
Effectively communicate complex analytical results to NSS leadership and government stakeholders.
Mentor junior engineers and contribute to continuous improvement of test processes and tools.