2026 Internship - Hypersonic and Reentry System Development and PrototypingThe Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory • Laurel, MD, United States

2026 Internship - Hypersonic and Reentry System Development and Prototyping

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory • Laurel, MD, United States

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Description

Are you interested in hypersonic and reentry system design and prototyping?

If you are pursuing a degree in Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or another related discipline and want to gain experience working on hypersonic / reentry systems, we'd love to have you join the team!

We are seeking passionate engineers to help us prototype, develop, and analyze next generation hypersonic vehicles, reentry systems, and enabling technologies to advance our nation's premier strategic weapons systems. As a member of our team, you'll make key contributions to develop next generation weapon systems, ensuring their future effectiveness. You will be joining a collaborative team of engineers who work together to solve challenging problems in hypersonic and / or reentry system design. We are passionate about innovation and our team is committed to providing engaging work, having an inclusive environment, and supporting technical development.

As a member of the Concept Development and Prototyping Team you will...

Collaborate with a cross-discipline team to design and develop advanced reentry system concepts
Develop and utilize modeling and simulation tools to conduct trade studies and performance assessments of hypersonic vehicles and / or reentry systems
Produce reports and presentations to communicate findings to team members, external organization partners, and / or government sponsors

Qualifications

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

Are pursuing a Bachelor's, Master's, or Doctorate degree in Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or related discipline

Have a 3.0 GPA or higher, on a 4.0 scale

Are passionate about modeling and simulation, software development, vehicle design, aerodynamics, flight dynamics, or trajectory optimization

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 experience with C / C++, Python, MATLAB, and / or other scientific programming languages

Have proficiency in standard software engineering practices including git version control, CI / CD integration, documentation, and unit testing

Have experience working with or developing modeling and simulation tools using numerical methods

Have experience developing 3DoF and / or 6DoF simulations

Have experience using 3D CAD tools such as Creo, SolidWorks or similar

Have experience in thermal modeling tools such as Thermal Desktop or ANSYS Workbench

Have experience using mission level modeling tools such as AFSIM

Have previous experience with Navy and / or Air Force strategic missiles, hypersonic vehicles, or reentry systems

Hold an active Secret or higher level clearance

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 http : / / www.jhuapl.edu / careers .

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 Accommodations@jhuapl.edu .

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

$22.60 Hourly

Maximum Rate

$47.95 Hourly

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2026 Internship • Laurel, MD, United States