A method includes performing a timing measurement of one or more positioning signals received at a mobile device and searching for available public land mobile networks (PLMNs) by the mobile device. The method also includes controlling the performing the timing measurement and the searching for the available PLMNs based on whether the performing the timing measurement or the searching for the available PLMNs began first and further based on a number of available receive paths on the mobile device. If the number of available receive paths can support it, timing measurements of one or more received positioning signals may be performed concurrently with searching for available public land mobile networks (PLMNs). Otherwise, if the receive paths cannot support concurrent timing measurement and PLMN searching, the PLMN search is put on hold or suspended and the timing measurements are allowed. Upon completion, the PLMN search may then begin or resume.