Machine Learning Engineer - Laurel - Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL)

Description

Do you have demonstrated machine learning experience and want to apply that experience to solving a wide variety of complex problems in this rapidly evolving field?

Do you thrive in a collaborative research environment, working alongside an energetic, multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers?

Are you ready to help the US secure and maintain leadership in the development and deployment of AI/ML algorithms for non-kinetic defense systems?

If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL

We are seeking an experienced Machine Learning Engineer who will contribute to all phases of the machine learning algorithm development and implementation. You will be joining a team of engineers and scientists who are at the forefront of APL's mission to provide innovative solutions to critical challenges.

As a Machine Learning Engineer, you will...

• Design, implement, and evaluate advanced machine learning algorithms to solve challenging real-world planning, perception, coordination, and control problems in support of national defense.
• Develop software pipelines to integrate data streams, simulation environments, and intelligent decision-making algorithms.
• Work with technologies and concepts at the cutting edge of AI, including but not limited to: deep reinforcement learning, foundation models, large language models, convolutional/recurrent/graph neural networks, computer vision, and physics-based modeling and simulation tools.
• Collaborate closely with the talented team of scientists and engineers in our group and with others across APL.
• Engage directly with sponsors to communicate proposed concepts, solutions, and analysis.

Qualifications

You meet the minimum requirements for the job if you...

• Have a Bachelor's degree in Mathematics, Physics, Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Have at least 2+ years of experience in machine learning and data science fields.
• Have at least one year of hands-on experience applying/developing machine learning algorithms using common libraries such as PyTorch or TensorFlow.
• Have strong foundational knowledge in at least two of the following: classification, clustering, deep learning, reinforcement learning, computer vision (object detection and visual tracking), multi-agent systems, or optimization/control theory.
• Have demonstrated experience in working with version control software like Git.
• Have strong, effective communication skills both verbal and written.
• 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 an MS in Mathematics, Physics, Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Have 5+ years of experience in designing and implementing AI/ML algorithms for a variety of datasets.
• Have proven experience applying state-of-the-art deep learning techniques to solve distributed resource allocation problems.
• Have hands-on experience building computer vision pipelines for detection, tracking, segmentation, or multi-modal sensor fusion.
• Have experience with modeling and simulation platforms such as AFSIM, Blender, Unity, or Unreal.
• Are comfortable working in high performance computing environments (GPU/CPU clusters).
• Have proficiency in one or more of the following technology areas: multi-agent reinforcement learning, geometric deep learning, multi-modal sensor fusion, agentic AI.
• Have a track record of writing deployable, production-level code (Python, C/C++) for real-world applications.

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About Us

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 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. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at 

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 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 

The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

Minimum Rate

$100,000 Annually

Maximum Rate

$245,000 Annually