2026 Graduate – Hypersonic and Reentry System Development and Prototyping

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: 2026 Graduate – Hypersonic and Reentry System Development and Prototyping Company: Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) Location: Laurel, Maryland, United States Job Type: FULL_TIME Category: Engineering Operations / GTM Operations (Focus on R&D and Technical Operations) Date Posted: December 12, 2025 Experience Level: 0-2 Years (Entry-Level Graduate) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This entry-level role focuses on the crucial early stages of engineering product development, specifically within the high-stakes domain of hypersonic and reentry systems.
• The position involves hands-on support for the design, analysis, and prototyping of next-generation strategic weapons systems, contributing directly to national defense readiness.
• Collaboration is a key element, requiring interaction with diverse teams of engineers, government sponsors, military personnel, and industry partners.
• The role offers significant opportunities for skill development in advanced engineering concepts, system integration, and rigorous testing environments, fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this role is fundamentally an engineering position, its emphasis on system development, prototyping, lifecycle management, and cross-functional collaboration aligns with aspects of Technical Operations and R&D Operations. The successful candidate will operate within a structured development process, requiring meticulous documentation, adherence to specifications, and clear communication of technical progress, all hallmarks of effective operations.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• System Design & Analysis: Support the design and analysis of next-generation reentry vehicles and subsystems throughout their entire product lifecycle, from initial concept through design, build, and testing phases.
• Prototyping & Fabrication: Actively participate in prototyping activities, including ground testing, system integration, and providing support for test planning and execution, working closely with in-house facilities and external suppliers.
• Product Development Support: Develop and maintain product designs and specifications for hardware components, manage procurement processes, and liaise with internal fabrication capabilities and external suppliers to bring designs to fruition.
• Technical Communication: Produce comprehensive reports and presentations detailing findings, analysis results, and project progress for internal team members, external organizational partners, and government sponsors, ensuring clear and concise dissemination of technical information.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Engage effectively with multi-disciplinary teams, including APL staff, government sponsors, military personnel, and industry partners, to achieve system-level objectives and overcome technical challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a structured engineering development process. The emphasis on "full product lifecycle," "prototyping activities," "system integration," "test planning and execution," and "producing reports and presentations" directly mirrors the operational rigor expected in advanced R&D environments. This requires an understanding of project timelines, resource allocation, and adherence to technical specifications, akin to operational project management.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a closely related engineering discipline.

Experience:

• Demonstrable experience in mechanical design and fabrication processes.
• A strong foundation in engineering principles relevant to aerospace or mechanical systems.
• Eagerness to develop new skills and a proactive approach to learning within a team-oriented environment.

Required Skills:

• CAD Modeling Proficiency: Working knowledge of CAD modeling software such as Creo or Solidworks.
• Mechanical Design Fundamentals: Solid understanding of mechanical design principles and practices.
• Fabrication Experience: Practical experience with mechanical fabrication techniques.
• Teamwork & Collaboration: Proven ability to work effectively within multi-disciplinary teams, including those with diverse backgrounds and experience levels.
• Initiative & Adaptability: Demonstrated initiative, a strong desire for skill development, and the ability to adapt to evolving project requirements.
• Security Clearance Eligibility: Ability to obtain a Secret level government security clearance by the start date, with the potential to achieve a Top Secret clearance. U.S. citizenship is a prerequisite for this clearance.

Preferred Skills:

• Assembly, Integration & Testing: Previous experience or knowledge in assembly, integration, and testing of complex systems.
• Aerospace/Defense Domain Knowledge: Prior exposure to Navy and/or Air Force strategic missiles, reentry systems, or hypersonic vehicles.
• Advanced CAD/PDM: Proficiency in advanced CAD and Product Data Management (PDM) tools like Creo and PTC Windchill.
• Design for Manufacturability: Understanding and application of Design for Manufacturability and Assembly (DFMA) principles.
• FEA Software: Experience utilizing finite element analysis (FEA) software packages such as Abaqus, COMSOL, or similar.
• Active Security Clearance: Possession of an active Secret or higher-level security clearance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of foundational engineering knowledge and practical skills, with a clear progression from required to preferred. The inclusion of CAD, fabrication, and a willingness to learn highlights the operational aspect of turning designs into tangible prototypes. The security clearance requirement is a critical operational prerequisite for this government-contracted role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Documentation: Examples of CAD models, technical drawings, and design specifications for mechanical components or systems.
• Prototyping Showcase: Documentation of projects involving the design, fabrication, and assembly of physical prototypes, detailing the process and challenges overcome.
• Analysis & Simulation Outputs: Samples of analysis reports or simulation results (e.g., FEA) demonstrating problem-solving capabilities, particularly if related to mechanical performance.
• Project Lifecycle Understanding: Projects that illustrate an understanding of a product or system's lifecycle, from concept to testing or even early production considerations.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design: Evidence of structured approaches to design and fabrication processes, including any planning or documentation involved.
• Integration & Testing Procedures: Examples of how integration and testing phases were planned, executed, and documented, highlighting attention to detail and adherence to procedures.
• Performance Analysis: Demonstrations of how design choices were validated or refined through analysis or testing, showing a commitment to data-driven decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role, the "portfolio" will likely be academic projects, personal projects, or internships. The focus should be on demonstrating a structured approach to problem-solving, design, and execution, reflecting an operational mindset even in an academic context. Emphasis on documentation, process adherence, and clear communication of results is key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $85,000 - $155,000 Annually

Benefits:

• Education Assistance: Robust program supporting continued learning and professional development.
• Retirement Contributions: Unparalleled retirement contributions, indicating a strong long-term financial commitment to employees.
• Paid Time Off: Comprehensive paid time off package for work-life balance.
• Health & Wellness: Full suite of medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Insurance: Life insurance, short-term disability, and long-term disability coverage.
• Financial Wellness: Flexible spending accounts (FSAs) for healthcare and dependent care.
• Professional Development: Extensive training and development opportunities to foster career growth.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week (standard full-time).

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is broad for an entry-level position, suggesting potential for merit-based increases, performance bonuses, or differentiation based on specific academic achievements and internship experience. The comprehensive benefits package underscores APL's commitment to employee well-being and long-term retention, critical operational considerations for attracting and retaining top talent in specialized fields.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Defense, Aerospace, Research & Development, Government Contracting. APL operates at the forefront of applied science and technology, developing critical systems for national security. Company Size: Large organization with over 5,000 employees. This size suggests a stable, well-resourced environment with established processes and career paths, but also necessitates clear operational structures to manage such a workforce effectively. Founded: 1942. With a long history, APL has a deep-seated culture of innovation, mission focus, and technical excellence, built on decades of critical contributions.

Team Structure:

• Concept Development and Prototyping Team: This specialized team focuses on the early-stage development and realization of advanced systems.
• Reporting Structure: Likely reports into a larger engineering division or program office, with clear lines of management and project oversight.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Works closely with other engineering disciplines (e.g., electrical, software), program management, government liaison offices, and potentially external academic or industry partners.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasizes rigorous analysis and simulation to inform design decisions, reflecting a methodical, operations-minded approach to engineering.
• Iterative Prototyping: Utilizes a build-test-learn cycle to rapidly develop and refine concepts, a common operational strategy in R&D.
• Systematic Testing: Adheres to structured test planning and execution protocols to validate system performance and identify potential issues, ensuring operational reliability.

Company Website: https://www.jhuapl.edu/

📝 Enhancement Note: APL's culture is deeply rooted in its mission to solve complex national security challenges. This translates to a work environment that values technical rigor, collaboration, and a strong sense of purpose. For an operations perspective, this means processes are likely to be well-defined, quality standards are exceptionally high, and communication must be precise and mission-oriented.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level Graduate Engineer. This role is designed for individuals starting their careers, providing a foundational experience in a highly specialized field. It represents the initial step in a potential long-term career within APL's technical operations and R&D framework. Reporting Structure: Typically reports to a Group Supervisor or Section Leader within the Concept Development and Prototyping group, who oversees project assignments and professional development. Operations Impact: While not a traditional "revenue operations" role, the impact is significant. This position contributes to the development of critical defense systems that ensure national security and strategic deterrence. The efficiency and effectiveness of the design and prototyping processes directly influence program timelines, costs, and ultimate mission success.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in hypersonic and reentry system design, analysis, and prototyping through hands-on project work and specialized training.
• Skill Augmentation: Acquire proficiency in advanced CAD, FEA tools, and testing methodologies, expanding technical capabilities.
• Leadership Potential: Progress from individual contributor roles to team lead or project management positions within R&D programs, demonstrating operational leadership.
• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gain experience working across different engineering disciplines and with various government and industry stakeholders, broadening understanding of complex program operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Growth here is defined by increasing technical depth and project responsibility. The operational aspect involves mastering the processes and systems used in advanced R&D, leading to more complex project assignments and potentially leadership roles in managing technical development efforts.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Primarily on-site work within a secure research and development facility. This environment is designed for collaboration and access to specialized equipment and laboratories. Office Location(s): Johns Hopkins Road, Laurel, Maryland, 20723-6099.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: Access to team workspaces, meeting rooms, and potentially lab environments for hands-on work.
• Advanced Technology: Utilization of cutting-edge engineering tools, software, and fabrication equipment essential for prototyping and testing.
• Team Interaction: Frequent opportunities for direct interaction with senior engineers, subject matter experts, and project teams to foster knowledge transfer and problem-solving.

Work Schedule: Standard 40-hour work week, with potential for occasional overtime depending on project demands. The emphasis is on structured development cycles and adherence to project timelines, requiring a consistent on-site presence.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is critical for this role due to the nature of prototyping, testing, and handling sensitive government projects. The work environment supports the rigorous operational demands of advanced engineering development.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and application materials to assess academic qualifications and alignment with core requirements.
• Technical Interview(s): Discussions focused on engineering fundamentals, problem-solving approaches, CAD proficiency, and understanding of mechanical design principles. Expect questions related to academic projects or internship experiences.
• Behavioral/Team Fit Interview: Assessment of collaboration skills, initiative, adaptability, and ability to work within a diverse team and potentially a secure environment.
• Security Clearance Process: Initiation of the government security clearance process, which involves background checks and verification of eligibility (U.S. citizenship required).

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Academic Project Focus: Highlight relevant university projects, capstone designs, or senior theses that demonstrate design, analysis, and fabrication skills.
• Process Documentation: For each project, detail the steps taken: problem definition, design approach, tools used (CAD, FEA), fabrication methods, testing procedures, and results achieved.
• Quantifiable Outcomes: Where possible, present quantifiable results or improvements made through your design or analysis.
• Clarity and Conciseness: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, easy to understand, and clearly articulates your contributions and learnings. For this role, focus on demonstrating a systematic approach to engineering challenges.

Challenge Preparation:

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Be prepared for hypothetical engineering problems related to mechanical design, system integration, or material selection.
• CAD/Design Discussions: Be ready to discuss your experience with CAD software and how you approach design challenges.
• Teamwork Examples: Prepare to discuss situations where you successfully collaborated with others to achieve a common goal. Articulate how you managed different perspectives and contributed to team success.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is geared towards assessing technical competence and operational fit within a structured R&D environment. The portfolio should showcase not just technical skills but also the ability to follow processes, document work thoroughly, and communicate technical information effectively.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Creo, Solidworks (required), PTC Windchill (preferred for PDM).
• FEA Software: Abaqus, COMSOL (preferred).
• Prototyping Equipment: Access to in-house fabrication facilities and potentially advanced manufacturing technologies.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Technical Documentation Tools: Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) for reports, presentations, and data analysis.
• Collaboration Platforms: Internal APL systems for project management and communication.

CRM & Automation:

• Project Management Software: Likely internal APL systems for tracking project progress, timelines, and resource allocation.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in CAD is a core operational requirement for design and prototyping. Familiarity with FEA tools demonstrates an ability to perform rigorous analysis, a key component of operational design validation. The use of PDM systems indicates a structured approach to managing design data, essential for larger projects.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Mission Focus: A strong commitment to the national security mission and contributing to critical defense programs.
• Technical Excellence: Dedication to rigorous analysis, high-quality design, and meticulous execution.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Valuing diverse perspectives and working effectively in cross-functional teams to solve complex problems.
• Innovation & Continuous Learning: Encouraging new ideas, embracing challenges, and pursuing ongoing professional development.
• Integrity & Accountability: Upholding the highest ethical standards and taking responsibility for one's contributions and work quality.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expect to work closely with engineers from different disciplines, program managers, and government representatives, requiring clear communication and understanding of diverse needs.
• Process-Oriented Feedback: Encouragement of constructive feedback within teams to improve designs, processes, and overall project outcomes.
• Knowledge Sharing: Active participation in team meetings and technical discussions to share insights and learn from colleagues, fostering a collective operational improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at APL is driven by its impactful mission. This translates to an operational environment where precision, collaboration, and a dedication to quality are paramount. Understanding and aligning with these values is crucial for success.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complexity of Systems: Working with cutting-edge, complex hypersonic and reentry systems demands continuous learning and problem-solving.
• Security Environment: Navigating the requirements of a secure government contracting environment, including clearance processes and data handling protocols.
• Rapid Development Cycles: Adapting to fast-paced project timelines and the need for rapid iteration in prototyping and testing.
• Interdisciplinary Integration: Effectively communicating and integrating technical solutions across various engineering disciplines and stakeholder groups.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Access to internal and external training programs to master specialized engineering software and methodologies.
• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from experienced engineers and subject matter experts within the organization.
• Industry Exposure: Potential to attend conferences or workshops related to hypersonic and reentry systems.
• Career Path Development: Guidance on career progression within APL, from entry-level engineer to specialized technical expert or project leader.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are inherent to working in advanced R&D and defense sectors, requiring an operational mindset focused on adaptability, continuous improvement, and resilience. The growth opportunities are designed to build specialized operational and technical expertise.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Technical Fundamentals: Be ready to articulate core concepts in mechanical engineering, thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and materials science as they apply to aerospace systems.
• Design Process: Describe your approach to designing a component or system, from requirements gathering to final validation. How do you ensure design integrity and manufacturability?
• Problem-Solving: Walk through a challenging technical problem you encountered (academic or personal) and explain how you diagnosed it, what solutions you considered, and how you arrived at your final approach. Highlight any operational considerations you made.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Motivation: Why are you interested in hypersonic and reentry systems, and why APL specifically?
• Teamwork: Describe a time you worked in a team where there were differing opinions. How did you contribute to resolution and ensure the team's objective was met?
• Adaptability: How do you approach learning new technologies or complex systems? Provide an example.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Project Selection: Choose 1-2 key academic or internship projects that best showcase your design, analysis, and prototyping skills.
• Process Narrative: For each project, tell a story: the problem, your approach, the tools and methods used (highlighting any operational planning), the challenges, and the outcome.
• Visual Aids: Use clear diagrams, CAD models, photos of prototypes, and concise data charts to support your explanations.
• Focus on Impact: Clearly articulate what you learned and the impact of your contributions, even if it's within an academic context.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a structured, analytical, and collaborative approach to engineering challenges, mirroring operational best practices. Being able to articulate your process and the 'why' behind your decisions is key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory careers portal via the provided URL.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight academic projects, internships, and coursework relevant to mechanical or aerospace engineering, CAD, design, fabrication, and any prototyping experience. Use keywords from the job description, such as "hypersonic," "reentry systems," "CAD modeling," "mechanical design," and "prototyping."
• Portfolio Preparation: Compile a digital portfolio (PDF, personal website) showcasing your relevant academic projects. Focus on demonstrating your understanding of the design process, CAD skills, and any hands-on fabrication or testing experience. Clearly document the steps you took and the results.
• Interview Practice: Prepare to discuss your technical background, problem-solving methodologies, and teamwork experiences. Practice articulating your project work clearly and concisely, emphasizing your process and learnings.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory's mission, its role in national security, and its culture of innovation. Understand the significance of hypersonic and reentry systems in the defense landscape.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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