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Kalman Filtering Inertial Navigation Jobs in Maryland

Optimal Estimation Methods (Kalman Filters), Inertial Navigation, Flight Dynamics, Flight Data Analysis, or Guidance and Controls Performance Analysis. * Are willing and able to travel occasionally ...

Kalman Filtering Inertial Navigation information

What is Kalman filtering in inertial navigation?

Kalman Filtering in inertial navigation refers to the use of a mathematical algorithm—the Kalman filter—to estimate the position, velocity, and orientation of a moving object by processing data from inertial sensors such as accelerometers and gyroscopes. The Kalman filter improves the accuracy of navigation by optimally combining sensor measurements and correcting for errors and noise. This technique is essential in applications like aerospace, robotics, and autonomous vehicles, where precise movement tracking is required. By continuously updating estimates as new sensor data arrives, Kalman filtering helps provide reliable and real-time navigation solutions.

What are some common challenges faced when implementing Kalman filtering for inertial navigation systems?

One common challenge in this role is managing sensor noise and drift, which can significantly affect the accuracy of inertial navigation solutions. You'll need to carefully tune filter parameters and sometimes integrate additional sensor data (like GPS or magnetometers) to improve robustness. Collaboration with hardware teams is typical, as understanding sensor characteristics is crucial for optimal filter performance. Additionally, real-time processing constraints often require you to optimize algorithms for efficiency without sacrificing accuracy.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Kalman filtering inertial navigation engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Kalman Filtering Inertial Navigation Engineer, you need a solid background in control systems, signal processing, and estimation theory, generally supported by a degree in electrical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related field. Proficiency with MATLAB, Python, sensor fusion algorithms, and experience implementing Kalman filters in embedded systems are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help professionals collaborate across multidisciplinary teams and solve complex problems. These skills and qualifications are vital to ensure accurate navigation solutions and robust system performance in real-world applications.

What is the difference between Kalman Filtering Inertial Navigation vs INS Algorithm Developer?

AspectKalman Filtering Inertial NavigationINS Algorithm Developer
CredentialsEngineering degrees, knowledge of Kalman filters, navigation systemsEngineering degrees, expertise in navigation algorithms, sensor fusion
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, aerospace, defense, autonomous vehicle developmentSoftware development, simulation, embedded systems in similar industries
Industry UsageDesign and implementation of navigation systems using Kalman filtersDeveloping algorithms for inertial navigation systems, improving accuracy

Kalman Filtering Inertial Navigation focuses on applying Kalman filters to process sensor data for navigation accuracy, while INS Algorithm Developers design and optimize algorithms for inertial navigation systems. Both roles require similar technical skills but differ in their primary focus: one on filtering techniques, the other on algorithm development.

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What cities in Maryland are hiring for Kalman Filtering Inertial Navigation jobs?

Cities in Maryland with the most Kalman Filtering Inertial Navigation job openings:

Infographic showing various Kalman Filtering Inertial Navigation job openings in Maryland as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

$100 - $245/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Description

Do you have a passion for physics, math, and data analysis?

Do you enjoy taking a complex physical problem and trying to represent it through mathematics and code?

Are you looking for a role where you can be mentored by world-class experts and grow into a specialist in physics-based modeling and statistical inference?

Are you interested in defining methodologies and processes that will be used for the testing and evaluation of current and future weapon systems?

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

The System Modeling, Evaluation, and Planning Group is seeking experienced analysts to support the technical evaluation of the nation’s primary strategic deterrents. You will join a multidisciplinary team of engineers, physicists, and mathematicians.

As a Weapon System Analyst you will...
  • Develop and Refine Physics Models by creating and improve high-fidelity physics-based models of complex systems, including inertial navigation (accelerometers, gyroscopes) and missile/reentry dynamics.
  • Lead the experimental design process for flight and ground tests to ensure data collection is optimized for model validation and parameter estimation.
  • Perform Statistical Validation by leveraging real-world collected data to estimate underlying physics-based errors, using statistical methods to determine how well models predict actual system behavior.
  • Apply advanced statistical techniques to work backward from observed data to identify the physical properties or errors that caused the observed effect.
  • Build Computational Frameworks by developing robust tools in C++ , MATLAB, or Python to facilitate analyses for important reports and deliverables.
  • Assess the accuracy of current strategic weapon systems and support the engineering of future systems to meet mission needs.
Qualifications

You meet our minimum requirements if you...

  • Hold a Bachelor’s degree in Physics, Applied Math, Applied Statistics, Engineering, or a closely related field.
  • Have one or more years of professional experience in data analysis or physics-based modeling
  • Have strong foundational skills in a scientific language (C++, MATLAB, or Python).
  • A solid grasp of linear algebra, calculus, and basic probability/statistics.
  • A strong desire to learn complex physical systems and a willingness to dive deep into technical documentation
  • Are able to acquire an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately acquire a final 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 exceed our minimum requirements with experience in any of the following...
  • Statistical analysis, parameter estimation and inverse problems, Kalman filtering, experimental design, Bayesian inference (e.g., MCMC), or Maximum Likelihood Estimation
  • Have experience working in large collaborative environments that require teams of engineers, physicists, statisticians, and applied mathematicians
  • Prior experience with tactical or strategic missile systems, or prior experience with inertial navigation systems
  • Hold an active Secret or higher-level 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

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