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Geodesy Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sr. Navigation Engineer

Burlingame, CA · On-site

$118K - $162K/yr

... geodesy). * Deep expertise in statistical estimation--extended/unscented Kalman filters, batch least squares, factor graphs, or similar. * Proven track record shipping navigation algorithms from ...

Sr. Navigation Engineer

Burlingame, CA · On-site

$150K - $180K/yr

... geodesy). * Deep expertise in statistical estimation--extended/unscented Kalman filters, batch least squares, factor graphs, or similar. * Proven track record shipping navigation algorithms from ...

Geodesy information

See California salary details

$36K

$75.3K

$112K

How much do geodesy jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for geodesy in California is $75,280.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,300.00 and $93,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is geodesy?

A Geodesy job involves measuring and understanding Earth's shape, gravity field, and spatial position. Geodesists use satellite data, GPS, and other technologies to create precise maps, monitor land changes, and support navigation systems. They work in various fields, including surveying, cartography, and engineering, ensuring accurate geographic data for infrastructure, environmental studies, and scientific research.

What does a geodesist do?

As a Geodesist, your daily tasks may involve collecting and analyzing spatial data, conducting surveys using GPS and satellite technologies, and processing geographic information for various applications. You might work on projects related to land surveying, map creation, infrastructure development, or monitoring natural hazards like earthquakes. Collaboration with engineers, surveyors, and GIS specialists is common, as these projects often require a team approach. You'll frequently use specialized software and field equipment to ensure your measurements and analyses are accurate and reliable. This dynamic role offers opportunities to solve real-world challenges while advancing both technical and analytical skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a geodesist?

To excel in Geodesy, strong analytical skills, a background in mathematics, geography, or engineering, and a relevant degree such as geodesy or geomatics are typically required. Familiarity with GPS/GNSS systems, GIS software, remote sensing technologies, and certifications like GISP or ASPRS are common assets. Excellent problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help geodesists collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and interpret complex data. These capabilities are crucial for ensuring accurate earth measurements and supporting various applications like mapping, surveying, and navigation.

What are the most commonly searched types of Geodesy jobs in California?

The most popular types of Geodesy jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Geodesy jobs in California?

For Geodesy jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Geodesy jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Geodesy jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Geodesy jobs?

Cities in California with the most Geodesy job openings:

Infographic showing various Geodesy job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, and 13% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,280 per year, or $36.2 per hour.

MOBLAS Console Operator / Space Communications Program

Mount Laguna, CA

Peraton
IT Services • 10K+ employees

$32.53/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Peraton rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Responsibilities

Peraton is seeking a full-time Engineering Technician to join our team in Mount Laguna, CA to support our Space Exploration Network Services and Evolution (SENSE) contract.

As prime contractor on the SENSE contract, Peraton is responsible for the operation, maintenance, sustainment and systems engineering of NASA's worldwide satellite communication networks.  Join the SENSE team to support NASA programs that integrate with state-of-the-art RF satellite communications systems and technologies!

In this position, you will work with the NASA Space Geodesy Network (NSGN) program by supporting the operations and maintenance of the NASA MOBile LAser System (MOBLAS) ground station, specifically MOBLAS-4. The MOBLAS system is used to measure the round-trip time of flight of laser pulses to satellites that are equipped with retroreflectors. The data collected supports geophysical and geodetic research activities.

The successful candidate will be responsible for

  • Operating the MOBLAS-4 station 8 hours per day, 5 days a week to collect satellite range data. Typical shift is from 6am to 2pm.
  • Performing regular weekly, monthly, and yearly preventative maintenance on all systems according to local operating procedures.
  • Complete regular ground tests to calibrate instrumentation and adjustments as needed.
  • Coordinate with remote engineering team to
    • Troubleshoot system malfunctions and complete corrective maintenance as directed.
    • Review or verify blueprints, wiring diagrams, schematic drawings, and engineering instructions for assembling equipment.
  • Receiving technical advice from supervisor or engineer and work is reviewed for technical adequacy (or conformity with instructions).
  • Performing other duties as assigned.
Qualifications

Required Experience:

  • Education/Experience: AS/AA degree and 2+ years of related experience, or 2 years of technical training and 2+ years of related experience, or HS/GED and 6 years of related experience.
  • 1 year of related experience as a ground system or console operator.
  • Experience following operational and/or maintenance procedures.
  • Ability to perform standalone shift work.
  • U.S. Citizenship is required. 

Desired Experience:

  • Experience operating or working with electro-optic elements, subsystems, and systems for ground-based systems including lasers, detectors, and beam control assemblies.
  • Experience operating or configuring timing equipment for high precision servo control, data measurement, and processing systems/subsystems.
  • Experience using complex test instruments such as high frequency pulse generators, frequency synthesizers, distortion analyzers, and complex computer control equipment.
Peraton Overview

Peraton is a next-generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. As the world's leading mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider, we deliver trusted, highly differentiated solutions and technologies to protect our nation and allies. Peraton operates at the critical nexus between traditional and nontraditional threats across all domains: land, sea, space, air, and cyberspace. The company serves as a valued partner to essential government agencies and supports every branch of the U.S. armed forces. Each day, our employees do the can't be done by solving the most daunting challenges facing our customers. Visit peraton.com to learn how we're keeping people around the world safe and secure.

Target Salary RangeThe rate / range per hour below represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual's experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.SCA / Union / Intern Rate or Range$32.53EEOEEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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About Peraton

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Peraton, we re at the forefront of delivering the next big thing every day. We re the partner of choice to help solve some of the world s most daunting challenges, delivering bold, new solutions to keep people around the world safer and more secure.

Industry

It services

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Herndon, VA, US

Year founded

2017