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Global Positioning System Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Field Party Chief

Ontario, CA · On-site

$85 - $120/hr

Gathers field survey data through use of conventional and Global Positioning System (GPS) methods; sets up, adjusts, and operates surveying equipment, including electronic total station, data ...

Gathers field survey data through use of conventional and Global Positioning System (GPS) methods; sets up, adjusts, and operates surveying equipment, including electronic total station, data ...

GIS Technician I

San Jose, CA · On-site

$46.15 - $54.09/hr

Position: Under immediate supervision, performs work of routine difficulty at the entry level in the utilization of geographic information system (GIS) software and global positioning system (GPS ...

GIS Technician I

San Jose, CA · On-site

$96 - $113/hr

Hourly Wage Position Under immediate supervision, performs work of routine difficulty at the entry level in the utilization of geographic information system (GIS) software and global positioning ...

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Global Positioning System information

See California salary details

$42.4K

$108.1K

$164.3K

How much do global positioning system jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average yearly pay for global positioning system in California is $108,092.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,400.00 and $128,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a global positioning system specialist?

Global Positioning System (GPS) jobs refer to careers that involve working with GPS technology, which is used for determining precise locations anywhere on Earth. These jobs can include roles such as GPS technician, surveyor, GIS analyst, and navigation systems engineer. Professionals in this field may work in industries like transportation, agriculture, defense, telecommunications, and mapping, where they install, maintain, or analyze GPS-based systems and data. GPS specialists often troubleshoot equipment, ensure signal accuracy, and develop new applications for navigation and tracking. The field is continuously evolving with advancements in satellite technology and data integration.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a global positioning system specialist?

To thrive as a GPS Specialist, you need expertise in geospatial technologies, data analysis, and navigation systems, typically supported by a degree in geography, engineering, or a related field. Familiarity with GIS software, GPS receivers, mapping tools, and certifications like GISP are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help professionals excel in troubleshooting and collaborating with teams. These competencies are crucial for ensuring accurate data collection, efficient operations, and reliable navigation solutions across various industries.

What challenges do global positioning system technicians face when maintaining and troubleshooting equipment?

GPS technicians often encounter challenges such as signal interference from environmental factors (like tall buildings or dense foliage), hardware malfunctions, and software compatibility issues. Field work may require technicians to diagnose problems in remote or harsh outdoor environments, sometimes under tight deadlines. Effective troubleshooting involves strong technical knowledge, adaptability, and clear communication with team members and end-users to ensure reliable GPS functionality.

What is the difference between Global Positioning System vs GIS Technician?

AspectGlobal Positioning System (GPS)GIS Technician
Required CredentialsGPS certification, technical trainingGIS certifications, degree in geography or related field
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, fieldwork, surveying sitesOffice, lab, or field data collection
Industry UsageNavigation, surveying, mappingMapping, spatial data analysis, urban planning

GPS focuses on satellite-based positioning technology used for navigation and surveying, while GIS Technicians analyze and manage spatial data using GIS software. Both roles are essential in mapping and surveying industries but serve different functions: GPS provides real-time location data, whereas GIS Technicians interpret and visualize geographic information.

What are popular job titles related to Global Positioning System jobs in California?

For Global Positioning System jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Global Positioning System jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Global Positioning System jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Global Positioning System job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,092 per year, or $52 per hour.

GPS/GNSS Wireless System Engineer

Google Inc.

Mountain View, CA • On-site

$159 - $230/hr

Other

Posted 9 days ago


Google rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 103 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

48th of 247 rated software companies


Job description

corporate_fare Google place Mountain View, CA, USA

Mid

Experience driving progress, solving problems, and mentoring more junior team members; deeper expertise and applied knowledge within relevant area.

  • Copy link
  • Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, or equivalent practical experience.
  • 4 years of experience in data processing, analysis and visualization.
  • 4 years of experience with Global Navigation Satellite System/Global Positioning System (GNSS/GPS) technologies and user cases.
  • 4 years of experience with wireless communications technologies.
Preferred qualifications:
  • Master's degree or PhD in Computer Science or Electrical Engineering.
  • Knowledge of GPS and other GNSS (Galileo, Glonass, Beidou, Navic, Qzss) technologies.
  • Knowledge of cellular assisted GNSS and other wireless positioning technologies (Cellular eCID/OTDOA, WiFi fringer-print/RTT, Bluetooth/UWB ranging/AOD, etc.).
  • Understanding of GNSS positioning engine and sensor-fusion technologies (VDR and PDR).
  • Ability to break down end-product navigation/fitness/safety descriptions to GNSS/GPS system engineering specifications.
About the job

Be part of a team that pushes boundaries, developing custom silicon solutions that power the future of Google's direct-to-consumer products. You'll contribute to the innovation behind products loved by millions worldwide. Your expertise will shape the next generation of hardware experiences, delivering unparalleled performance, efficiency, and integration.

Android is Google’s mobile operating system powering more than 3 billion devices worldwide. Android is about bringing computing to everyone in the world. We believe computing is a super power for good, enabling access to information, economic opportunity, productivity, connectivity between friends and family and more. We think everyone in the world should have access to the best computing has to offer. We provide the platform for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and developers to build compelling computing devices (smartphones, tablets, TVs, wearables, etc) that run the best apps/services for everyone in the world.

Individual pay is determined by factors including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.

US: $159000 - $230000 (USD) + 15% bonus target + equity + benefits

  • Define the GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System)/GPS (Global Positioning System) architecture and specifications from product requirements for mobile and wearable devices.
  • Explore, coordinate and technically manage GNSS/GPS chipset/solution vendors, to ensure compliance with product technology roadmap and requirements.
  • Collaborate with SOC, RF, antenna, modem/connectivity software, and product Electrical Engineering/power teams to specify mobile/wearable platform and wireless system architecture, interfaces, and performance goals.
  • Collaborate with GPS/modem firmware, Android location and Context Hub Runtime Environment (CHRE) framework teams to deliver positioning/navigation user experience with tight hardware/software integration.
  • Work with cross-functional teams to root-cause and solve product-level Radio Frequency (RF) coexistence and desense issues.

Google is proud to be an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. We are committed to building a workforce that is representative of the users we serve, creating a culture of belonging, and providing an equal employment opportunity regardless of race, creed, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, national origin, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy or related condition (including breastfeeding), expecting or parents-to-be, criminal histories consistent with legal requirements, or any other basis protected by law. See also Google's EEO Policy , Know your rights: workplace discrimination is illegal , Belonging at Google , and How we hire .

Google is a global company and, in order to facilitate efficient collaboration and communication globally, English proficiency is a requirement for all roles unless stated otherwise in the job posting.

Equity is granted exclusively and discretionarily by Alphabet Inc. on the basis of an agreement concluded between you and Alphabet Inc. Alphabet Inc. is your sole contractual partner with respect to equity grants. GSU grants are not guaranteed, are discretionary, are subject to approval by the Alphabet Inc. board of directors or its delegate, the terms of the relevant Alphabet Inc. stock plan, and your grant agreement. They have no impact on statutory payments. Current or past grants do not confer an acquired right.

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