Weapon Systems Analyst

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory•Laurel, MD

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The System Definition & Validation Group (KBY) in the Force Projection sector of the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory is seeking motivated analysts, engineers, scientists, mathematicians, statisticians, and systems engineers to fill the role of Weapon System Analyst. The successful candidate will work on complex, multi‑disciplinary problems alongside senior experts, gaining the experience and mentorship needed to become a future leader in strategic‑systems analysis. As a Weapons Systems Analyst for KBY, you will integrate into multidisciplinary teams that apply a “whole‑of‑system” perspective and systems‑engineering rigor to shape platforms that meet current and future warfighter requirements. You will support in‑depth analyses at the system and sub‑system levels, producing data‑driven recommendations that inform design decisions. You will develop an understanding of how weapon systems function, are tested, operated, and maintained, and how they fit into broader deterrence concepts; you will translate that knowledge into clear guidance for warfighter employment under senior mentorship. You will contribute to requirements and architecture reviews, helping evaluate change impacts and safeguard mission performance while learning the fundamentals of system requirements, interfaces, and capabilities. You will assist in stakeholder engagement, helping navigate expectations and relationships so program leadership can better satisfy warfighter needs. You will continuously expand knowledge of weapon systems, associated delivery platforms, and the system‑level engineering processes that support them through on‑the‑job training, workshops, and self‑directed study. You will participate in sponsor‑support trips (up to 2–4 per year, each ≤ 1 week) and perform local travel for stakeholder meetings as needed. You will apply emerging models, simulations, and early‑stage assessment tools under the guidance of senior analysts to help accelerate validation and reduce risk. You will provide fresh perspectives and analytical rigor, leveraging your technical background to challenge assumptions and contribute innovative ideas.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in engineering, computer science, physics, applied mathematics, or a related technical discipline.
2+ years of relevant technical or analytical experience (e.g., work on complex engineering projects, systems analysis, data‑driven modeling, or operational research). Experience does not have to be on weapon systems; strong analytical ability and a demonstrated capacity to learn new domains are essential.
Strong problem‑solving skills, quantitative analysis capabilities, and the ability to communicate technical concepts clearly both in writing and orally.
Curiosity, adaptability, teamwork, and a drive to develop deep weapon‑system expertise.
Able to obtain Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain Top Secret level clearance.
U.S. citizenship.

Nice To Haves

Advanced coursework or graduate‑level study (M.S. or Ph.D.) in a relevant technical field.
Prior exposure to weapon‑system concepts (e.g., missiles, bombers, hypersonics, or comparable high‑technology platforms) through internships, research projects, or early‑career roles.
Experience conducting trade‑studies, requirements analysis, or system‑level modeling in any engineering domain.
Familiarity with high‑fidelity simulation or model‑based systems engineering tools.
An active Top‑Secret clearance.

Responsibilities

Integrate into multidisciplinary teams that apply a “whole‑of‑system” perspective and systems‑engineering rigor to shape platforms that meet current and future warfighter requirements.
Support in‑depth analyses at the system and sub‑system levels, producing data‑driven recommendations that inform design decisions.
Develop an understanding of how weapon systems function, are tested, operated, and maintained, and how they fit into broader deterrence concepts; translate that knowledge into clear guidance for warfighter employment under senior mentorship.
Contribute to requirements and architecture reviews, helping evaluate change impacts and safeguard mission performance while learning the fundamentals of system requirements, interfaces, and capabilities.
Assist in stakeholder engagement, helping navigate expectations and relationships so program leadership can better satisfy warfighter needs.
Continuously expand knowledge of weapon systems, associated delivery platforms, and the system‑level engineering processes that support them through on‑the‑job training, workshops, and self‑directed study.
Participate in sponsor‑support trips (up to 2–4 per year, each ≤ 1 week) and perform local travel for stakeholder meetings as needed.
Apply emerging models, simulations, and early‑stage assessment tools under the guidance of senior analysts to help accelerate validation and reduce risk.
Provide fresh perspectives and analytical rigor, leveraging your technical background to challenge assumptions and contribute innovative ideas.