GNSS Data Science & Navigation Analyst

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory (APL); Laurel (NE); On-site; USD 150,000 - 210,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Education assistance

Retirement contributions

Paid time off

Medical, dental, vision coverage

Life and disability coverage

Flexible spending accounts

Training and development

Job summary

Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks a senior GNSS navigation specialist to analyze GNSS data and generate actionable insights using predictive analytics, data engineering, and advanced visualization.

You will evaluate GPS and GNSS technologies, lead cross-functional teams, develop innovative algorithms, and mentor colleagues while working toward Top Secret clearance; U.S. citizenship required.

Qualifications

• We require a Bachelor’s degree in a quantitative or engineering discipline.
• A proven history of improving navigation accuracy through predictive analytics and data engineering.
• 8+ years of technical experience, including 5+ years in a navigation-related field.
• Proficiency in Python, MATLAB, or C/C++.
• Ability to communicate complex analyses through reports and briefings.

Responsibilities

• Analyze GNSS data to generate detailed insights into navigation performance across missions using predictive analytics, data engineering, and visualization.
• Evaluate emerging GPS and GNSS technologies and translate findings into actionable recommendations.
• Advance navigation satellite signal physics and receiver technology expertise.
• Lead cross-functional teams to respond to sponsor needs.
• Develop, implement, and improve algorithms while enhancing simulation and data science tools.
• Grow team knowledge base and provide technical leadership in satellite-based positioning.

Skills

Predictive Analytics

Data Engineering

Technical Leadership

Communications

GNSS Navigation

Python

MATLAB

C/C++

Education

Bachelor's degree in quantitative or engineering field

MS or PhD preferred

Tools

Matlab

Python

Git/GitLab

CI workflows

C/C++

Job description

Requirements

Must have:

• We require a B.S. in a quantitative or engineering discipline such as Data Science, Applied Physics, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or Mathematics.


• We are looking for a proven history of finding innovative ways to improve navigation accuracy through predictive analytics and data engineering.


• We need at least 8 years of technical experience, including 5 years of experience in a navigation-related field.


• We require proficiency in at least one scientific programming language such as Python, MATLAB, or C/C++.


• We expect strong ability to work with technical specialists and program leadership, and to communicate complex analysis through reports, briefings, and visualizations.


• We require the ability to obtain a Secret clearance by the start date and ultimately qualify for a Top Secret clearance.


• Candidates must be U.S. citizens and able to pass a government security clearance investigation.


• Preferred qualifications include an M.S. or Ph.D. in a relevant field.


• Preferred candidates will have 10+ years of experience in GNSS navigation or alternative Position, Navigation, and Timing systems.


• Preferred experience includes statistical analysis, Kalman filtering, signal propagation physics, and/or machine learning.


• Preferred software development experience includes Matlab and Python, plus Git/GitLab and Continuous Integration workflows.


• Familiarity with the strategic deterrence mission is a plus.


• Project leadership and mentoring experience is preferred.


• An active Top Secret clearance is preferred.

Responsibilities

• We analyze GNSS data to generate detailed insights into navigation performance across missions using predictive analytics, data engineering, and visualization.


• We evaluate emerging GPS and GNSS technologies, including modernization efforts, contested-environment operations, and alternate navigation approaches, then turn findings into recommendations.


• We continue building expertise in navigation satellite signal physics and receiver technology.


• We lead cross-functional teams in responding to sponsor needs.


• We develop, implement, and improve innovative algorithms while advancing our simulation and data science tools.


• We grow our team knowledge base and collaborate with colleagues at all experience levels, establishing technical authority in satellite-based positioning applications.

Company

We are the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL), where we bring world-class expertise to national defense, security, space, and science challenges.

Our culture is collaborative, welcoming, and innovation-focused, with opportunities to grow, contribute authentically, and work alongside inspiring teammates.

We value diverse perspectives and bold ideas, and we offer generous benefits including education assistance, strong retirement contributions, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life and disability coverage, flexible spending accounts, and training and development.

Our campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area, and applications are accepted on a rolling basis.