Demo

Geophysicist/Geodesist

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory
Laurel, MD Full Time
POSTED ON 7/25/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 8/31/2026
Description

Do you have experience understanding geophysical and geodetic properties of the earth and an interest in investigating their real-word application to navigation systems supporting missions of utmost importance to the nation?

Are you searching for a career with an employer that provides crucial leadership in solving highly technical challenges addressing our nation and prioritizes continual innovation?

Are you interested in joining a team of engineers, applied mathematicians and physicists as we pursue innovative solutions to the timely and timeless maritime navigation problem in support of the US Navy?

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

We are the Navigation group in the Force Projection Sector at JHU/APL. We are seeking a Geophysicist/Geodesist to help us ensure the US Navy has the most accurate and reliable navigation systems in the world.

As a Geophysicist In The Navigation Group, You Will

  • Analyze current and potential future geophysical data products (bathymetry, gravity, magnetic, geodetic, etc.) for their accuracy and applicability to US Navy platforms
  • Become the subject matter expert on all geophysical data products used by the US Navy, including how they could be leveraged more effectively in the future
  • Provide advice and technical recommendations on geophysical sensors and data issues affecting various US Navy platforms
  • Advise US Navy sponsors on current and emerging geophysical navigation solutions, including both surface and subsurface fleets
  • Develop error models for geophysical data sources, including gravity, bathymetry, and magnetic data to determine how those errors impact the mission of different US Navy platforms
  • Develop production-level software tools to be used in geophysical data analysis
  • Apply cutting-edge analytics and machine learning techniques to geophysical data
  • Evaluate current geophysical-aided navigation techniques
  • Develop innovative algorithms for integrating geophysical data into surface and subsurface navigation (both pre-launch and in-flight) systems
  • Develop and/or sustain geodesy and gravity modeling technology and tools, including the development of geophysical analysis capabilities
  • Collaborate with Laboratory, contractors, and sponsor teams on matters related to geophysical data (including maintenance and modernization) to address critical sponsor needs
  • Survey current academic and industry research for state of-the-art capabilities in new geophysical sensors to promote innovative ideas to benefit the country

Qualifications

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

  • Possess a M.S. degree in Geophysics, Geodesy, Physics, or related technical field
  • Have an understanding of and interest in geophysical data sources and how they are used in real world applications
  • Have experience in exploration geophysics, geodesy, and signal processing, with a strong background in physics and math
  • Possess the ability to lead development/research projects
  • Have strong programming experience
  • Are able to do some limited travel (up to 10%)
  • Are able to obtain Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain Top 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 our minimum requirements if you...

  • Possess a PhD degree in Geophysics, Geodesy, Physics, or a related field
  • Have experience developing geophysical-aided navigation algorithms
  • Have experience with geodesy and gravity error modeling and analysis, including the development of tools to perform the analysis
  • Have expertise with programming languages such as MATLAB, Python, etc.
  • Have experience with data science and machine learning
  • Have an Active, current Department of Defense 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 Accessibility@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.

Minimum Rate

$100,000 Annually

Maximum Rate

$245,000 Annually

Salary : $100,000 - $245,000

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