2026 Internship - Navigation Analyst or Geophysics Intern

Are you interested in learning about the timely and timeless art of maritime navigation from experts?

Do you love to apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills for complex systems?

Do you want to be part of a team developing analytical techniques and software tools for systems critical to the defense of our nation?

If you are pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in Applied Mathematics, Geophysics, Geology, Physics, Computer Science, Electrical or Computer Engineering, Data Science (or a related subject), possess a computational skillset, and are interested in working in the field of Navigation, we'd love to have you join our team!

We are seeking an intern to help us ensure the US Navy surface and subsurface fleet have the most accurate and reliable navigation systems in the world. You will join a dedicated group of engineers, physicists, software developers, mathematicians, and scientists who are committed to directly contributing to the success of strategic and tactical missions of utmost importance to the US Navy. Our team is committed to developing exceptional talent in the field of navigation and fostering a culture of innovation.

As a Geophysics Intern for the Navigation group...

• Your primary responsibility will be to contribute to the development of tools and techniques that employ signal processing algorithms to geophysical time series and image data. This may include nonlinear signal analysis, machine learning, and advanced spectral analysis concepts with the end goal being able to efficiently analyze large volumes of data, thereby minimizing analyst effort to separate geophysical signal from noise.
• You will acquire hands on experience with marine potential fields datasets.

As a Navigation Analyst Intern for the Navigation group...

• Your primary responsibility will be to contribute to the development of tools and techniques crucial to gaining critical insight into navigation performance. For example, our interns have worked on an Agile software team to develop production-level analysis software, have participated in research and development efforts to advance machine learning and optimization processes, and have developed tools to enhance training in key navigation concepts.
• You will learn about complex inertial navigation systems employed across multiple platforms in great detail.

Both interns will...

• Learn about complex inertial navigation systems employed across multiple platforms and they how fit into the big picture of naval subsystems.
• Network and learn from world-class experts in inertial navigation.
• Contribute to a group and Lab culture that encourages collaboration, bold innovations, and unquestionable integrity.

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

• Are pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in Geophysics, Applied Mathematics, Geology, Physics, Computer Science, Electrical or Computer Engineering, Data Science, or a related subject.
• Have a strong curiosity about marine geophysics and how it can assist maritime navigation AND/OR have a strong curiosity about how a navigation system performs.
• Have programming experience (e.g., Python, Julia, R or MATLAB).
• Have a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale.
• Are able to obtain a Secret security clearance by your start date. 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...

• Experience with configuration management and version control tools (e.g., Github, Gitlab).
• Experience with geophysical time series analysis (e.g., seismic, acoustic, gravity, magnetic and electromagnetic modalities) AND/OR inertial navigation systems.
• Demonstrated software development experience in compiled or scripted languages.
• Experience with machine learning AND/OR digital signal processing.
• An active Secret or Top-Secret security clearance.

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 http://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 Accommodations@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.