Launching Your Career as a Geodetic Orbit Scientist at the NGA

Are you a scientist with a passion for orbital mechanics, mathematics, and national security? The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) is currently seeking dedicated professionals to join their team as Geodetic Orbit Scientists. This role is a unique opportunity to apply your technical skills to real-world intelligence challenges that affect our global positioning infrastructure.

Job Responsibilities

As a Geodetic Orbit Scientist, your core mission involves monitoring Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) and maintaining the integrity of the WGS 84 reference frame. Key duties include:

Analyzing geophysical and geodetic data to identify patterns and deviations.
Developing and utilizing specialized algorithms to determine ephemerides.
Supporting a worldwide network of tracking stations.
Collaborating with cross-functional teams to meet program goals.
Communicating findings through detailed technical reports and presentations.

Requirements

To qualify, applicants must meet the following mandatory criteria:

Education: A Bachelor's degree in Geodesy, Mathematics, or Physical Science with 30+ semester hours in related technical coursework.
Clearance: Must hold or be eligible to obtain a Top Secret/SCI security clearance.
Technical Skills: Proficiency in programming (Python, MATLAB, C++) and database management.
Physical/Fitness: Ability to distinguish colors and meet specific vision requirements.

Feature	Requirement Detail
Citizenship	Must be a U.S. Citizen
Experience	Scientific/Statistical analysis experience required
Availability	Shift work (evenings/weekends) required
Clearance	TS/SCI + Polygraph

Salary and Benefits

The compensation for this role ranges from $51,740 to $101,097 annually, depending on experience and pay band assignment. Employees benefit from the Career Advancement Program (CAP), which provides clear benchmarks for salary growth and non-competitive promotion potential. You will also have access to the comprehensive benefits provided to federal employees.

Application Tips

Use the NGA Resume Builder: Do not upload a standard corporate resume. Follow the agency's specific format.
Highlight Results: Focus on what you achieved rather than just listing job tasks.
Detail Your Coursework: If you are using your education to qualify, ensure your transcript clearly shows the required math/science hours.

If you are ready to apply your scientific expertise to a mission of global importance, this Geodetic Orbit Scientist position is the perfect next step. Ensure your resume highlights your technical programming and statistical background to stand out in the competitive applicant pool.

Why This Geodetic Orbit Scientist Job Matters

Launch your career at the forefront of satellite intelligence and geodetic science with the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency.

Geodetic Orbit Scientist Job Overview

The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) is seeking highly skilled Geodetic Orbit Scientists to support the mission of delivering actionable intelligence. In this role, you will monitor Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS), analyze complex satellite data, and maintain the WGS 84 reference frame. This position offers a dynamic environment where your work directly supports national security, military operations, and civilian partnerships. You will be responsible for planning and implementing algorithms to ensure the integrity of critical geospatial data.

Requirements for Geodetic Orbit Scientist

U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) security clearance.
Must pass a Counterintelligence Polygraph and drug testing.
Bachelor's degree in Geodesy, Mathematics, Physical Science, or a related field with at least 30 semester hours in qualifying technical subjects.
Experience in scientific or statistical analysis and database management.
Ability to work in a team environment to meet project deadlines.
Willingness to participate in shift work, including evenings and weekends.

Preferred Qualifications for Geodetic Orbit Scientist

Hands-on experience with GNSS and WGS 84 frameworks.
Proficiency in programming languages including Python, MATLAB, C++, or FORTRAN.
Experience with UNIX scripting and specialized software like STK or UML.
Proven history of project leadership and resource allocation.
Expertise in Precise Ephemerides calculations.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive salary progression through the Career Advancement Program (CAP).
✓Opportunities for non-competitive promotion to Pay Band 3.
✓Comprehensive federal health and retirement benefits package.
✓Potential recruitment incentives for qualified candidates.
✓Professional development within the Defense Civilian Intelligence Personnel System (DCIPS).

💡 How to Apply Geodetic Orbit Scientist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Geodetic Orbit Scientist Job

Visit the official NGA Careers Portal to create your profile.
Utilize the NGA resume builder tool.
Construct a concise resume (limited to 2 pages) highlighting relevant technical experience.
Submit your application through the secure online portal before the closing date.
Monitor your application status through the portal's tracking feature.

💡 General Tips

Tailor your resume specifically to the mandatory criteria listed in the announcement.
Provide concrete examples of your statistical or modeling results rather than just listing duties.
While a cover letter is optional, it is highly recommended to provide additional context for your candidacy.
Ensure your degree is from an accredited institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
Apply well before the deadline to account for any technical issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a security clearance required for this position?

Yes, you must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance with SCI access, which includes a polygraph and regular background checks.

What is the work schedule like for a Geodetic Orbit Scientist?

This position requires flexibility. You will participate in shift work, which includes periodic support during evenings and weekends.

What is the Career Advancement Program (CAP)?

The CAP allows employees at Pay Band 2 to receive semi-annual performance evaluations and potential salary increases, with a pathway to non-competitive promotion to Pay Band 3 upon meeting all requirements.

Is relocation assistance provided?

*A: No, relocation benefits are not offered for this specific position.*

Can I work remotely?

*A: This position is not listed as remote-eligible; employees will work on-site at NGA facilities.*

Job from National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency

The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) is the world leader in providing timely and accurate geospatial intelligence (GEOINT). By analyzing terrain, elevation, and satellite data, NGA professionals help decision-makers understand the "how and why" behind global events. Working here means contributing to a mission that protects our warfighters, intelligence professionals, and civilian partners worldwide.