Become a State GIS Manager: Cartographer Opportunity with the USDA
Are you a geospatial expert passionate about land conservation? The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), an agency of the U.S. Department of Agriculture, is looking for a dedicated Cartographer to serve as the State GIS Manager in Champaign, Illinois. This is your chance to influence environmental health through advanced mapping and spatial technology.
Job Responsibilities
As the state GIS manager, your work will be foundational to state operations. You will:
- Provide technical leadership for all GIS products and services.
- Manage state geodatabases, ensuring data integrity and reliable backups.
- Coordinate remote sensing initiatives and spatial analysis projects.
- Manage and store conservation easement geodata.
- Train field office staff on GIS, Customer Service Toolkits, and remote sensing.
- Oversee data collection for the Natural Resource Inventory (NRI).
Requirements
To be eligible, you must meet strict federal requirements:
- Education: A degree in cartography or 30+ semester hours in related sciences (e.g., geophysics, land surveying, remote sensing) with a strong math component.
- Experience: One year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level or equivalent.
- Citizenship: You must be a U.S. Citizen.
Salary and Comparison
This position offers a competitive salary consistent with the GS-12 pay scale.
| Pay Grade | Salary Range |
|---|---|
| GS-12 | $89,508 - $116,362 |
Benefits
Employees enjoy a robust federal benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and the flexibility of telework. This role is currently approved for 4-day-per-week telework, subject to supervisor approval and local requirements.
Application Tips
- Resume: Keep it strictly under two pages. Longer resumes will be discarded.
- Assessment: Prepare to complete the USA Hire assessment shortly after applying.
- Documents: Use standard formats like PDF. Do not use Adobe Portfolio files.
If you are ready to leverage your GIS and cartography skills to make a tangible impact on the environment, this USDA role offers the perfect platform. Ensure your application is complete, submit your materials before the deadline, and prepare for a challenging and rewarding career in conservation.
Why This Cartographer Job Matters
Transform landscapes and lead environmental innovation as the State GIS Manager for the Natural Resources Conservation Service in Illinois.
Cartographer Job Overview
The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is seeking a highly skilled Cartographer to serve as the state's Geographic Information System (GIS) Manager in Champaign, Illinois. In this pivotal role, you will lead the development, implementation, and coordination of spatial technologies, including GIS, GPS, and remote sensing. You will provide critical technical leadership to ensure data-driven decision-making in agricultural and conservation initiatives, managing complex geodatabases and training staff to optimize resource management across the state.
Requirements for Cartographer
- U.S. Citizenship or National status.
- Registration with Selective Service (if male born after 12/31/1959).
- Successful completion of a background investigation and fingerprint check.
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-11 grade level (or equivalent).
- Must meet basic education requirements in cartography or a related science (30+ semester hours including math/statistics).
- Submission of transcripts if education is used for qualification.
- Commitment to a 1-year probationary period.
- Mandatory enrollment in direct deposit for payroll.
- Must successfully pass the E-Verify employment check.
Preferred Qualifications for Cartographer
- Proficiency in managing large spatial datasets and geodatabase maintenance.
- Advanced experience in spatial analysis and coordinating resource inventory programs.
- Demonstrated ability to train diverse teams on GIS/GPS applications.
- Strong technical leadership skills in remote sensing and land management technologies.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal salary and benefits package.
- ✓Telework eligibility (up to 4 days per week).
- ✓Flexible work arrangements.
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives.
- ✓Career growth and professional development opportunities within the USDA.
💡 How to Apply Cartographer Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Cartographer Job
- Review the full job announcement on USAJobs.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages.
- Collect necessary transcripts and supporting documentation.
- Complete the application through the official portal, including all questionnaires.
- Submit your package by 11:59 PM (ET) on the closing date.
- Complete the required USA Hire Assessment within the designated window.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit; exceeding this will disqualify your application.
- Verify that uploaded documents are under 5MB and in supported formats like PDF or Word.
- Set aside 1-2 hours for the USA Hire assessment, as it is a mandatory component of your evaluation.
- Double-check that your transcripts clearly list course titles and grades to avoid processing delays.
- Check your USAJobs profile status regularly for updates and notifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for telework?
Yes, this position is eligible for telework within the local commuting area, with current policies allowing for up to 4 days per week.
What is the primary responsibility of this Cartographer role?
The role serves as the State GIS Manager, responsible for technical leadership in GIS/GPS systems, remote sensing, and maintaining the state's conservation geodatabases.
Can I use volunteer experience to qualify?
Yes, paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work with recognized organizations, is considered if it demonstrates the required competencies.
What is the primary location for this job?
*A: The position is based in Champaign, Illinois.*
Can I get help with relocation?
*A: Relocation incentives may be authorized at the agency's discretion.*
Job from Natural Resources Conservation Service
The NRCS is dedicated to the mission of "helping people help the land." As a vital part of the USDA, the agency partners with farmers, ranchers, and local governments to implement conservation systems that improve soil, water, and habitat health. Joining the NRCS means becoming part of a nationwide network committed to sustainable agriculture and ecological stewardship.