2026 Internship - Engineering for Communications Systems

Are you interested in solving complex problems, and contributing to valuable solutions to challenging, real-world problems?

As part of the Nuclear Command Communications Systems Group (QKR) you will have the opportunity to learn from experts in the field of Nuclear Command Control Communications (NC3) and contribute to current mission critical projects. Our group strikes a balance between software, hardware, and data science focus areas to deliver key findings to sponsor organizations across their full operational systems.

If you are currently pursuing a degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Data Science, Electrical Engineering, Radio Frequency Engineering, Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering, Statistics, Physics, or other related technical degrees, we'd love to have you join our team!

We are seeking Engineering Interns across three focus areas and will match you based on your interests and skills. Collaboration across tracks is common.

Our Focus Areas

• Software (CS/CE/General SWE)
  • Develop features and services in Python, Java, C#, or JavaScript/TypeScript
  • Build and extend tools for modeling & simulation and operational technologies
  • Contribute in a larger team with code reviews, issues, CI, and Agile rituals
• EE/RF (Electrical, Mechanical, RF Engineering)
  • Prototype and evaluate waveforms; perform RF characterization of components and subsystems.
  • Work with MATLAB/Simulink, Python, GNU Radio, and software-defined radios (SDRs)
  • Use RF lab instrumentation (spectrum/network analyzers, signal generators); support hardware-in-the-loop tests
• Modeling & Data Analysis (Modeling/Math/Statistics/Data Science)
  • Model communications systems (link budgets, channel models, Monte Carlo simulations)
  • Apply statistics, optimization, or ML to communications and network data
  • Create analyses and visualizations in Python or MATLAB

As a member of our team, you may...

• Research solutions for secure, resilient strategic communications to support crucial missions of national security.
• Perform performance evaluations on communications hardware for strategic assets such as bombers, submarines, and launch control facilities.
• Evaluate operational scenarios through modeling and simulation, analysis, and laboratory testing.
• Develop software in a language such as Python, Java, C#, MATLAB, or JavaScript
• Work as a core contributor to a project in a larger team environment
• Be paired with a senior engineering mentor
• Participate in Agile activities such as stand ups, retrospectives, and code reviews
• Learn about software or hardware development in a real-world communications environment
• Present individual contributions to senior staff and potentially to sponsors

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

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Data Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Radio Frequency Engineering, Math, Statistics, Physics, or other related technical area
• Have a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale.
• Are skilled in and/or have knowledge of one or more of the below areas...
• Object Oriented Programming in a language like Python, Java, C#, MATLAB, or JavaScript
• Demonstrated experience in Software Development from a previous internship, software course work, or personal projects
• Scientific computing and signal processing in MATLAB/Simulink, GNU Radio, or experience with lab instrumentation using SDRs, microcontrollers, DSP, etc.
• Modeling & analysis (data structures/algorithms, statistics, numerical methods, simulation)
• Network communications (TCP/IP concepts, protocols)
• Can work effectively both independently and in teams and possess strong interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.
• Are able to obtain Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain Top 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 RF characterization and waveform development/prototyping
• Have hands-on work with SDRs, GNU Radio, microcontrollers, or DSP
• Are familiar with Linux environments
• Have experience with Agile development
• Have experience with SQL and relational databases; data curation, data visualization
• Have interest in RF or TCP/IP network communications
• Have interest in modeling & simulation and analyzing mission-relevant data
• Experience with Git, Docker/containers, and basic CI workflows

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.