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Navigation Systems Engineer Jobs in Maryland (NOW HIRING)

PNT/GPS Engineer

Lexington Park, MD · On-site

$140K - $170K/yr

The GPS Navigation Engineer applies systems engineering principles to the design, integration, and testing of Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) systems. The incumbent serves as a contributing ...

The GPS Navigation Engineer applies systems engineering principles to the design, integration, and testing of Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) systems. The incumbent serves as a contributing ...

PNT/GPS Engineer

Lexington Park, MD · On-site

$140K - $170K/yr

The GPS Navigation Engineer applies systems engineering principles to the design, integration, and testing of Positioning, Navigation, and Timing (PNT) systems. The incumbent serves as a contributing ...

Salary Range: $84,137 - $140,000 Help the Navy modernize aircraft navigation systems with the ... Bachelor's degree in Engineering, minimum 5 years of experience. Good written and oral ...

GPS Engineer

Patuxent River, MD · On-site

$84K - $140K/yr

Salary Range: $84,137 - $140,000 Help the Navy modernize aircraft navigation systems with the ... Bachelor's degree in Engineering, minimum 5 years of experience. Good written and oral ...

Salary Range: $84,137 - $140,000 Help the Navy modernize aircraft navigation systems with the ... Bachelor's degree in Engineering, minimum 5 years of experience. Good written and oral ...

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Showing results 1-20

Navigation Systems Engineer information

See Maryland salary details

$51.9K

$123.5K

$162.1K

How much do navigation systems engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for navigation systems engineer in Maryland is $123,467.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,100.00 and $152,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Navigation Systems Engineers when integrating new technologies into existing platforms?

Navigation Systems Engineers often encounter challenges when integrating new technologies, such as ensuring compatibility with legacy systems, maintaining signal integrity, and meeting stringent safety or regulatory requirements. These engineers must carefully validate and test new components to avoid disruptions in performance, often collaborating closely with software developers, hardware engineers, and project managers. Successful integration requires strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication across multidisciplinary teams.

What does a navigation engineer do?

A navigation engineer designs and develops systems that determine the position, orientation, and velocity of vehicles or equipment, often using GPS, inertial sensors, and mapping data. They work on integrating hardware and software to ensure accurate navigation in various environments, and may require knowledge of signal processing, algorithms, and relevant certifications. Their work is essential in aerospace, automotive, and defense industries.

What does a Navigation Systems Engineer do?

A Navigation Systems Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining systems that determine and control the position, movement, and guidance of vehicles or devices. These engineers work with technologies such as GPS, inertial navigation, and sensor fusion to ensure accurate and reliable navigation. They often collaborate with teams in the aerospace, automotive, maritime, or robotics industries to integrate navigation solutions into larger systems. Their role includes testing, troubleshooting, and optimizing navigation algorithms and hardware to meet safety and performance standards.

What engineers make $500,000 a year?

Highly experienced senior engineers in specialized fields such as aerospace, software, or systems engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, often through a combination of base salary, bonuses, and stock options. These roles typically require advanced skills, extensive experience, and often involve leadership or executive responsibilities.

What is the difference between Navigation Systems Engineer vs GPS Software Engineer?

AspectNavigation Systems EngineerGPS Software Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in engineering, computer science, or related field; certifications in navigation or systems engineeringBachelor's or higher in computer science, electrical engineering; certifications in GPS technology or software development
Work EnvironmentDesigning and testing navigation systems for vehicles, aerospace, or maritime applicationsDeveloping GPS algorithms and software for navigation devices and applications
Employer & Industry UsageAutomotive, aerospace, defense, maritime industriesConsumer electronics, telecommunications, defense sectors
Common Search & ComparisonNavigation Systems EngineerGPS Software Engineer

While both roles focus on navigation technology, Navigation Systems Engineers design and integrate entire navigation systems, whereas GPS Software Engineers develop specific GPS algorithms and software components. The roles often overlap in industry and credentials but differ in scope and focus.

Is systems engineer a high paying job?

Navigation Systems Engineers typically earn higher-than-average salaries due to their specialized technical skills in designing and maintaining navigation systems, often requiring a bachelor's degree in engineering and security clearances. Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and industry, but they are generally considered well-paying roles within the engineering field.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as software engineering, petroleum engineering, and certain aerospace engineering roles can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership responsibilities. High compensation often involves working in high-demand industries, holding advanced degrees, or earning bonuses and stock options.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Navigation Systems Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Navigation Systems Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical or aerospace engineering, strong mathematical skills, and experience with navigation principles such as GPS, inertial navigation, and sensor fusion. Proficiency with simulation tools like MATLAB/Simulink, embedded systems, and familiarity with relevant certifications such as DO-178C for software quality are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help set top candidates apart. These competencies are vital for developing accurate, reliable navigation solutions that meet stringent safety and performance standards in aerospace and related industries.
What job categories do people searching Navigation Systems Engineer jobs in Maryland look for? The top searched job categories for Navigation Systems Engineer jobs in Maryland are:
Infographic showing various Navigation Systems Engineer job openings in Maryland as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $123,467 per year, or $59.4 per hour.

Navigation Systems Engineer, Lead

AMERICAN SYSTEMS

Lexington Park, MD • On-site

$130K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

AMERICAN SYSTEMS is an employee-owned federal government contractor supporting national priority programs through our strategic solutions in the areas of Information Technology, Test & Evaluation, Program Mission Support, Engineering & Analysis, and Training.


AMERICAN SYSTEMS is currently seeking Navigation Engineering Lead Support for Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) Air Vehicle Team.

As a Navigation Lead for the Air Vehicle Team, you will:

  • Work with a team of driven, supportive and highly skilled professionals
  • Receive a robust benefits package that includes an Employee Stock Ownership Plan!
  • Enjoy flexibility managing your work hours and personal needs with a single accrual leave plan.

 A day in the life of Air Vehicle Navigation Engineering Lead:

  • Report to the VMS Flight Management Lead Systems Engineer and in their absence, directly to the Air Vehicle Team Lead.
  • Responsible for coordination across Development, Production, Sustainment and Training IPTs.
  • Manage a team of navigation subject matter experts.
  • Responsible for all matters related to domestic and Cooperative Program flight navigation systems, to include, but not limited to, navigation, communication, air traffic management, and other avionics equipment installed on the aircraft, to ensure that the avionics are effectively supported throughout its operational service life.
  • Responsible for managing navigation requirements and architecture, Engineering Change proposal (ECP), Technical Directive (TD) Technical Direction Letter (TDL) products and navigation capability upgrades.
  • Manage capabilities include life cycle development and System Engineering Technical Review (SETR) process including critical design reviews for navigation systems that integrate across multiple IPT’s in the program office organization structure. Capabilities include Embedded GPS INS (EGI), Performance Based Navigation (PBN), Selective Availability Anti-Spoofing Module (SAASM), Military GPS (M-Code), Advanced Digital Antenna Production (ADAP), Assured Position, Navigation and Timing (A-PNT) and Navigation Warfare (NAVWAR).
  • Responsible for coordination of navigation roadmap, Jira ticket tracking, DMSMS obsolescence and reliability, integration with the Ground Control System (GCS), lab and ground/ test flight test.

  • A minimum of 8 years of professional experience in Defense acquisition, of which a minimum of three (3) years must be in support of Navy Acquisition management.
  • Bachelor’s degree is preferred. An associate’s degree and an additional four (4) years of experience may be substituted for a bachelor’s degree, or an additional eight (8) years of experience (without associates degree) may be substituted for a BA/BS.
  • Must have a current Secret clearance, TS preferred.
  • Knowledgeable of acquisition policies and procedures, Communications, Navigation, Surveillance, Air Traffic Management (CNS-ATM) / Global Air Traffic Management (GATM), requirements and architecture management.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of and experience with the requirements of the DOD 5000 series.
  • Demonstrated ability to work with large and diverse teams and the ability to effectively provide guidance, direction, and supervision in all areas of major system acquisitions contracted effort such as program management concepts and tools, systems engineer.

AMERICAN SYSTEMS is committed to pay transparency for our applicants and employee-owners. The salary range for this position is USD $130,000.00/Yr. - USD $150,000/Yr. Actual compensation will be determined based on several factors permitted by law. AMERICAN SYSTEMS provides for the welfare of its employees and their dependents through a comprehensive benefits program by offering healthcare benefits, paid leave, retirement plans, insurance programs, and education and training assistance.
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