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Senior Navigation Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory

Laurel, MDFull-time$105–290K/yrTracked 1w agoSeen in employer's feed 4 days ago

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At a glance

Compensation
$105–290K/yr
Location
Laurel, MD
Schedule
Full-time
Work Authorization
Not specified

Requirements

Credentials this posting asks for.

Ability To Obtain Secret Security ClearanceActive Top Secret Security ClearanceTop Secret clearanceBachelor's degree

Job overview

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory is hiring a Senior Navigation Engineer. The Senior Navigation Engineer will serve as a subject‑matter expert on surface and subsurface navigation systems, independently evaluate system accuracy, and provide technical assessments that guide U.S. Navy fleet decisions while mentoring staff and supporting training initiatives.

Key focus areas include Serve as subject‑matter expert on navigation system operation and performance, Independently evaluate accuracy and performance of high‑accuracy inertial navigation systems and supporting aids, and Apply analysis techniques to assess fidelity of navigation systems and build deep understanding of PNT data.

Important skills include Inertial Navigation Systems, Fathometers, Speed Logs, Satellite Positioning, Alternate Navigation Sensors, and Navigation System Architecture.

Skills & qualifications

RequiredNice to have

Skills

Inertial Navigation SystemsFathometersSpeed LogsSatellite PositioningAlternate Navigation SensorsNavigation System ArchitectureDocumentationCommunicationProject LeadershipStaff MentorshipOrganizational Skills

Qualifications

Bachelor's in Mathematics or Physics or Electrical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering or Related Technical Field5+ Years U.S. Navy Fleet Navigation ExperienceAbility to Obtain Secret Security ClearanceU.S. CitizenshipTravel 3-5 Weeks Per YearMaster's or Ph.D. In Mathematics or Physics or Electrical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering or Related Technical Field10+ Years Navigation Systems or Maritime Navigation Operations or Navigation Data Analysis ExperienceExperience in U.S. Navy Operational Planning or Curriculum Development or Training Standards or Fleet Navigation LeadershipActive Top Secret Security Clearance

Benefits

Medical Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Paid Time Off
Tuition Assistance

Full job description

Description

Are you ready to apply your navigation expertise to solve the US Navy's most critical operational challenges?

Do you want to make an impact by delivering objective technical assessments that support fleet readiness?

Are you excited about helping shape the future of navigation systems by providing the independent analysis and field support that matter most?

If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.

You'll join the Navigation group in APL's Force Projection Sector, providing independent analysis and advanced expertise across the entire positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) spectrum in support of strategic deterrence, national tasking, and the most critical missions of the U.S. Navy. We are seeking a Senior Navigation Engineer to join the team of independent evaluators and trusted agents of afloat navigation system performance. In this role, you'll apply your operational experience to evaluate current Fleet navigation system performance and provide recommendations for future operational and technical enhancements. This role includes receiving on the job training to professionally develop towards becoming an experienced navigation systems analyst. We value diverse perspectives, encourage creativity and new ideas, and foster a collaborative, welcoming environment where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with talented colleagues.

As a Senior Navigation Engineer...

  • Your primary responsibility will be serving as a subject-matter expert on the operation and performance of surface and subsurface navigation systems operating in extremely demanding, real-world conditions.

  • You will independently evaluate the accuracy and performance of high-accuracy inertial navigation systems and their supporting aids-including fathometers, speed logs, and satellite positioning-and investigate and resolve anomalies in field test data.

  • You will apply analysis techniques to assess the fidelity of navigation systems and build a deep understanding of PNT data.

  • You will participate in and lead teams in the study of alternate navigation (Alt-Nav) sensors and present clear, objective findings to government sponsors.

  • You will author test plans, provide test support, and conduct post-test analysis of navigation sensor system performance to independently characterize accuracy and reliability. This will include live, onboard support of field tests of navigation equipment and procedures onboard operational submarines, surface ships, and in shoreside labs.

  • You will provide independent technical assessments that inform Navy decisions on future navigation capabilities and help road-map future Fleet technologies.

  • You will serve as a trusted, independent voice, delivering objective assessments.

  • You will mentor and develop staff, becoming an authority in navigation and expanding the knowledge base of the next generation of APL navigation analysts.

  • You will support the development of Fleet training devices and provide onsite training events at Naval facilities and onboard Naval platforms.

  • You will facilitate direct interactions and communications with Fleet representatives and Sailors to provide and receive feedback relative to navigation system performance and to identify emerging trends and priorities for government sponsors.

Qualifications

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

  • Possess a B.S. in Mathematics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical field-or equivalent years of specialized technical training and experience with U.S. Navy navigation systems.

  • Have 5+ years of relevant hands-on U.S. Navy Fleet navigation experience.

  • Have hands-on familiarity with navigation sensors and an understanding of navigation system architectures.

  • Have a track record of project leadership and staff mentorship.

  • Possess strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to document and present technical findings to colleagues, team leaders, and government sponsors.

  • Bring intellectual curiosity and a methodical approach to breaking down complex problems, paired with strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities.

  • Are willing and able to travel an average of approximately 3-5 weeks per year for sponsor presentations, testing, and to occasionally embark on surface ships and/or submarines.

  • Are able to obtain a Secret security clearance upon start and ultimately obtain a Top Secret clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a U.S. government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information; U.S. citizenship is required.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...

  • Have an M.S. or Ph.D. in Mathematics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical field.

  • Have 10+ years of experience in navigation systems, maritime navigation operations, or navigation data analysis.

  • Have experience in U.S. Navy operational planning, curriculum development, training standards, promulgation of operational guidance, or Fleet Navigation leadership (Squadron, TYCOM, Learning Centers, Program Offices, Warfare Centers, etc.).

  • Hold an active Top Secret security 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 https://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 [email protected].

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

$105,000 Annually

Maximum Rate

$290,000 Annually

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