Senior Navigation Engineer

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 105,000 - 290,000; Full time

Job summary

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory seeks a Senior Navigation Engineer to join the Navigation group in the Force Projection Sector, applying expert analysis of surface and subsurface navigation systems in demanding real‑world conditions to inform Navy decisions.

You will lead test planning, field support on submarines and ships, mentor staff, and help develop training devices for Fleet personnel, traveling 3–5 weeks per year and pursuing appropriate security clearances.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mathematics, Physics, Electrical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering, or equal Navy navigation experience
• 5+ years of hands-on U.S. Navy Fleet navigation experience
• Familiarity with navigation sensors and system architectures
• History of project leadership and staff mentorship
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for technical presentations
• Willingness to travel ~3–5 weeks/year and obtain clearances

Responsibilities

• Serve as SME on operation and performance of navigation systems in demanding conditions.
• Independently evaluate inertial navigation systems and supporting aids; investigate data anomalies.
• Apply analysis to assess PNT data fidelity and develop understanding.
• Lead studies of alternate navigation sensors and present findings to sponsors.
• Author test plans, provide test support, and conduct post-test analyses onboard vessels.
• Mentor staff and expand the knowledge base of navigation analysts.
• Support development of Fleet training devices and onsite training at Naval facilities.

Skills

Navy navigation

Leadership

Technical writing

Travel readiness

Clearance eligibility

Education

B.S. in Mathematics, Physics, Electrical Engineering, or Aerospace Engineering

M.S. or Ph.D. in relevant field (advantage)

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?

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 [e-mail].

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