2026 Internship - Custom Communications

Do you enjoy working in a team to build innovative solutions?

Are you interested in developing RF communications and computer networking skills through projects that support our nation's special operations and intelligence communities?

If you are studying Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or Computer Science and want to develop novel solutions in the field of wireless and wired communications, we'd love to have you join our team!

We are seeking motivated interns to help us craft communication systems for highly impactful missions. Our team is committed to solving problems and building groundbreaking capabilities that will transition to operational prototypes.

As a member of our team, you will learn to...

• Develop potential future concepts and technological solutions to advance assured global connectivity.
• Design and implement simulation tools to analyze the performance of communications and networking systems, with opportunities to explore AI/ML solutions.
• Work with technologies relating to RF systems, software-defined radio (SDR), SATCOM, cellular, and GNURadio.
• Work with software technologies and frameworks, including but not limited to Docker, IP Networking, WireShark, and Ansible.
• Research, advance, and apply new technologies to enable the evolution of existing communication and networking systems to increase resilience, security, and operational flexibility.

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

• Are pursuing a Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field with a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale.
• Have experience or familiarity with software development in one or more of the following: Python, C/C++, or MATLAB.
• Are interested in developing skills related to digital signal processing, communication theory, and computer networking.
• Can acquire an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date, and can ultimately acquire a Secret level security clearance. If selected, you will be subject to at least a government secret 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 classroom or professional work experience with software defined radios, operational communication systems, client to server or server to server architectures, or developing middleware and networked software solutions.
• Knowledge of networking protocols and technologies and how they work with other systems or communication systems across the PHY/MAC layers.

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.