Become a Cartographer: Shaping Maritime Intelligence at the NGA
The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) is the world leader in geospatial intelligence, providing the data necessary for the military, policymakers, and first responders to make informed decisions. We are currently searching for dedicated professionals to join our Maritime Safety Office as a Cartographer - Maritime GIS Analyst. This role is essential for maintaining global nautical navigation standards and supporting national security initiatives.
Comparison of Qualifications
| Qualification Type | Requirement Focus | Expected Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Mandatory | Education & Basic GIS Skills | Baseline capability for production |
| Preferred | Automation & Database Management | Increased efficiency in mission tasks |
Job Responsibilities
As a Cartographer, you will:
- Manage and update digital nautical charts.
- Analyze diverse data sources, including foreign ship reports and hydrographic survey results.
- Develop geospatial datasets to support international and military navigation.
- Contribute to modernizing cartographic tradecraft through process improvement.
Requirements
Candidates must be U.S. citizens and able to pass a rigorous Top Secret/SCI clearance process, including a polygraph. Educationally, you must hold a degree in Cartography or related sciences, or possess four years of equivalent professional experience.
Salary and Benefits
The salary range for this position is $85,447 to $158,322 per year. Employees benefit from the DCIPS framework, which offers annual performance evaluations that dictate salary increases and bonus structures.
Application Tips
- Use the NGA resume builder.
- Highlight your specific GIS software proficiency.
- Emphasize projects where you communicated technical data to non-technical stakeholders.
If you are ready to apply your technical cartographic skills to a mission of global importance, the NGA welcomes your application. Join a team where every map contributes to national safety.
Why This Cartographer- Maritime Gis Analyst (Hiring Event) Job Matters
Shape the future of national security as a Cartographer and Maritime GIS Analyst at the NGA—your expertise in geospatial data powers global decision-making.
Cartographer- Maritime Gis Analyst (Hiring Event) Job Overview
The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) is seeking skilled Cartographers to join our Maritime Safety Office. In this role, you will analyze complex geospatial data, maintain nautical charts, and provide critical intelligence to military and civil partners. As a vital member of the Department of Defense, you will help decision-makers visualize the 'how and why' behind global events using state-of-the-art geospatial technology.
Requirements for Cartographer- Maritime Gis Analyst (Hiring Event)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance with SCI access
- Completion of a Counterintelligence Polygraph examination
- Bachelor's degree in Cartography or a related major with at least 30 semester hours in qualifying coursework
- Professional experience in cartography or GIS application
- Ability to distinguish principal colors and shades
- Near visual acuity of 20/60 or better
Preferred Qualifications for Cartographer- Maritime Gis Analyst (Hiring Event)
- Experience in GIS database administration
- Proficiency in scripting languages such as Python for process automation
- Background in producing specific NGA products like NAVPLAN charts or 1:50k topographic maps
- Strong skills in quality assurance and control for geospatial data
- Experience with marine or regional geospatial analysis
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Performance-based bonuses
- ✓Comprehensive health and retirement planning
- ✓Opportunity to work within the Defense Civilian Intelligence Personnel System (DCIPS)
- ✓Professional growth in a high-impact national security role
💡 How to Apply Cartographer- Maritime Gis Analyst (Hiring Event) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Cartographer- Maritime Gis Analyst (Hiring Event) Job
- Prepare your resume using the official NGA resume builder (limited to 2 pages)
- Visit the NGA Careers Portal to register or log in
- Search for the position using the provided job opening ID
- Upload your resume and any optional supporting documents like a cover letter
- Submit your application electronically before the closing date
💡 General Tips
- Use the NGA resume builder exclusively to ensure your formatting matches system requirements.
- Be specific; provide concrete examples of how your GIS experience contributed to project outcomes.
- Review your resume for alignment with the mandatory qualifications before submitting.
- Apply well before the deadline, as the system will close automatically at 11:59 PM EDT.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the NGA's hiring model?
NGA utilizes a flexible career model where individuals are hired for their specific tradecraft skills and may be placed in various roles across the agency to meet mission needs.
Is a security clearance required before applying?
You must be capable of obtaining and maintaining a Top Secret/SCI clearance to be eligible for this position.
Can I submit a traditional resume?
The NGA requires the use of their internal resume builder. Please ensure you format your experience within that system.
Job from National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency
The NGA operates at the intersection of intelligence and technology. By evaluating imagery, elevation data, and bathymetry, our employees translate complex geographical information into actionable intelligence. We pride ourselves on creating a workplace that values integrity, precision, and innovation.