2026 Internship - Maritime Software Development - Ocean Systems and Engineering

Do you enjoy developing software in a collaborative work environment?

Are you passionate about crafting ground-breaking software solutions?

If you're pursuing a degree in Computer Science or a related field and want to apply your skills in software development, data science, or machine learning to real-world challenges in maritime autonomy, we'd love to have you join the team!

We are looking for a standout intern with experience in Python, C++, or Java. You will work alongside a team of engineers developing advanced software solutions for the U.S. Navy. Our team is committed to technical excellence, mentorship, and encouraging a culture of innovation and collaboration.

As a member of the team you will...

• Develop and test modern applications and algorithms, including tools for simulation, data analysis, and decision-making, that enable next-generation maritime autonomy.
• Engage in end-to-end software engineering processes within a cloud-enabled simulation framework.
• Collaborate with engineers to build and refine simulation environments used to assess and validate the Navy's latest algorithms and systems for autonomy.
• Work with multidisciplinary teams and actively participate in software design evaluations, code reviews, and test strategy planning.

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

• Are studying Computer Science, Computer Engineering, or a related field at the undergraduate or graduate level.
• Have coursework or project experience applying software design principles in C++, Python, or Java.
• Have a minimum 3.0 GPA (on a 4.0 scale). Note: When prompted to upload attachments, please include a copy of your college transcripts (unofficial transcripts are acceptable).
• Have pursued technical projects and extracurricular activities outside of the classroom.
• Are able to obtain an Interim Secret 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 if you have experience with...

• Participating in Agile development with automated testing, CI/CD, and DevSecOps practices.
• Working with middleware, containerization, or orchestration tools (e.g., DDS, ZeroMQ, Docker, Kubernetes).
• Applying data science methods to analyze complex datasets.
• Developing or working with complex simulations.
• Creating or applying modern machine learning algorithms.
• Developing algorithms for perception, decision-making, or control of autonomous systems.
• Maintaining an active Secret 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 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.