Autonomy Development Lead

Are you passionate about developing new capabilities to support our nation's security based on cutting-edge research?

Do you consider yourself a highly motivated leader who can enable team success?

Are you ready to help intelligent systems transition from the laboratory environment to the real world?

If so, we are looking for someone like you to join our team at APL!

We are seeking an experienced technical leader who can lead a motivated and growing team of software developers and test engineers working to support sponsors across the Department of Defense. We have developed a state-of-the-art hardware and software application called TACE (Testing of Autonomy in Complex Environments) that serves as an interface between autonomy and AI algorithms on one side and aircraft and mission systems on the other side. This application combines safety and live-virtual-constructive (LVC) simulation functionality into a single tool that can support a range of autonomy development activities.

TACE has been delivered to the Air Force, Navy and Army and continues to be supported by a range of sponsors. TACE is a central part of our overall autonomy development strategy and is expected to have a growing role over the next few years as we integrate test and evaluation support into our AI competition environments.

Candidates with leadership experience from all technical fields are encouraged to apply. Creativity and critical thinking are far more important than experience with AI systems.

As an Autonomy Development Lead...

• Your primary responsibility will be enabling team success by decomposing high-level project objectives and balancing short- and long-term development priorities.
• You will work closely with sponsors, project management, and developers to design, create, test, and deploy high-quality software and hardware for a range of sponsors.
• You will be the primary technical leader on the team, responsible for setting the development direction, ensuring that tasks are completed on schedule, that quality standards are met, and that customer needs are satisfied.
• You will also have a role in mentoring a team of highly motivated engineers across a range of experience levels.

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...

• Have a Bachelor's degree in Computer/Software Engineering, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, or another related technical discipline.
• Have at least five years of experience leading teams of technical contributors.
• Have substantial experience decomposing high-level program requirements into specific team tasks and objectives.
• Have experience working with Agile software development processes.
• Are fluent in at least one major programming language such as C/C++, Java, Python, assembly, etc.
• Have experience with field/user testing of complex technical systems.
• Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Secret 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.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...

• Have a Master's degree or Ph.D. in Computer/Software Engineering, Computer Science, Applied Mathematics, or another related technical discipline.
• Have experience leading projects that included implementing AI algorithms in physical systems.
• Have experience developing winning competitive proposals to US DoD agencies such as DARPA, AFRL, ONR, and ARL.
• Are fluent in multiple programming languages.
• Have formal project management training, such as PMI certification.
• Have an active US security clearance.

Why work at APL?

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. 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 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. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at.

APL is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

APL is committed to promoting an innovative environment that embraces diversity, encourages creativity, and supports inclusion of new ideas. In doing so, we are committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accommodations@jhuapl.edu. Only by ensuring that everyone's voice is heard are we empowered to be bold, do great things, and make the world a better place.