Uncrewed Aerial Systems Networking and Communications Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory•Laurel, MD

34d

About The Position

Are you interested in working in multi-disciplinary teams to advance the state-of-the-art in autonomous systems, uncrewed air systems, artificial intelligence, software design, embedded systems, virtual reality, and simulation? Are you interested in applying your skills to conceive, design, prototype and test new capabilities in intelligent autonomous systems that will save US warfighter's lives and ensure our nation's preeminence? If you answered "yes" to either of these questions, we are looking for someone like you to join our team in the Intelligent Combat Systems Group at APL! Who are we? We are the Intelligent Combat Systems Group, and our mission focus is to ensure our Nation maintains the operational advantage on the future battlefield through foundational advances in artificial intelligence, autonomy, manned-unmanned teaming and novel unmanned aircraft (e.g. drones) design and testing. We believe the future of warfare will be defined by intelligent autonomous systems capable of fighting with machine precision at machine speeds. Whether it is developing the intelligence that drives autonomous wingmen behaviors, integrated real-time collaboration tools and data analytic architectures, or novel AI design tools and software, the Intelligent Combat Systems Group is at the forefront. Three of our recent game-changing projects (DARPA Air Combat Evolution, AFRL Golden Horde, and Air Force SkyBorg) are featured in recent news articles, highlighting our impact and innovation. We are seeking inquisitive and creative team members who like to tackle exciting problems to help us build the next generation of autonomous combat systems and shape the future of warfare. Our team is an entrepreneurial and multidisciplinary team committed to developing technical talent, fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration, while having fun with what we do! As a UAS Networking & Communications Engineer, you will: Design, implement, and manage robust and resilient communication networks for cutting-edge uncrewed aerial systems (UAS). Lead the integration and field testing of communication subsystems, ensuring reliable data links for command and control (C2), telemetry, and high-bandwidth payload data in complex operational environments. Deploy and configure a variety of networking solutions, from simple point-to-point links to complex, multi-node mobile ad hoc networks (MANETs) for swarming and cooperative behaviors. Evaluate, select, and test appropriate RF hardware, including radios, antennas, and associated components, based on mission requirements such as range, throughput, anti-jam capabilities, and Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP). Troubleshoot and resolve complex connectivity issues spanning the physical (RF), data link, and network layers, both in the lab and during live flight test operations. Investigate and prototype emerging communication technologies (e.g., LoRa, tactical MANETs, 5G, SATCOM) to develop novel capabilities for operating in GPS-denied or communications-contested environments.

Requirements

Hold a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical field.
Have at least 3+ years of hands-on experience with network integration, RF systems or communications for: robotic, aerospace, or uncrewed systems.
Possess a strong foundational knowledge of networking principles (TCP/IP, UDP, routing, subnetting).
Have demonstrated experience setting up and troubleshooting IP-based networks in a lab or field environment.
Are familiar with fundamental RF communications concepts (e.g., link budgets, antenna selection, interference).
Possess excellent problem-solving skills and a hands-on, "build and test" mindset.
Are able to obtain an Interim 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.

Nice To Haves

Have an MS or higher in a relevant engineering field.
Have 5+ years of relevant experience, particularly in a Test and Evaluation (T&E) environment for defense or aerospace systems.
Possess deep expertise in Mobile Ad Hoc Networking (MANET) protocols and technologies.
Have hands-on experience with long-range, low-power communication protocols such as LoRa/LoRaWAN and mesh networking frameworks.
Have direct experience with UAS flight controllers and ground control station software (e.g., PX4, ArduPilot, Mission Planner, QGroundControl).
Hold an active FCC Amateur Radio license.
Are proficient in a scripting language (e.g., Python, Bash) for test automation, data parsing, and network analysis.
Have experience with RF test equipment such as spectrum analyzers and vector signal analyzers.
Hold an active TS/SCI level security clearance

Responsibilities

Design, implement, and manage robust and resilient communication networks for cutting-edge uncrewed aerial systems (UAS).
Lead the integration and field testing of communication subsystems, ensuring reliable data links for command and control (C2), telemetry, and high-bandwidth payload data in complex operational environments.
Deploy and configure a variety of networking solutions, from simple point-to-point links to complex, multi-node mobile ad hoc networks (MANETs) for swarming and cooperative behaviors.
Evaluate, select, and test appropriate RF hardware, including radios, antennas, and associated components, based on mission requirements such as range, throughput, anti-jam capabilities, and Size, Weight, and Power (SWaP).
Troubleshoot and resolve complex connectivity issues spanning the physical (RF), data link, and network layers, both in the lab and during live flight test operations.
Investigate and prototype emerging communication technologies (e.g., LoRa, tactical MANETs, 5G, SATCOM) to develop novel capabilities for operating in GPS-denied or communications-contested environments.