Launch Your Career as a Maritime Analyst with the NGA
The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) is currently seeking experienced professionals to serve as Maritime Analysts in Springfield, Virginia. If you possess a background in maritime navigation and have a desire to apply your skills toward high-stakes national security missions, this permanent position offers an exceptional career trajectory.
Job Responsibilities
As a Maritime Analyst, you will not just look at maps—you will create the standards that guide global fleets. Your duties will include:
- Analyzing and consolidating safety-of-navigation information.
- Maintaining comprehensive maritime databases.
- Providing quality assurance for digital and hardcopy nautical charts.
- Promulgating navigational warnings to support global maritime safety.
- Generating mission-specific datasets for intelligence operations.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Clearance: Must hold or be eligible for a Top Secret/SCI clearance.
- Education/Experience: A Bachelor's degree in a relevant scientific or maritime field, or 4 years of professional experience as a deck officer or navigator.
- Technical Skills: Proficiency with ECDIS, DNC, and various navigation modalities.
Eligibility Comparison
| Requirement Type | Option A | Option B |
|---|---|---|
| Education | Maritime Academy Degree | Related STEM Degree (Physics, Engineering, etc.) |
| Professional | 4 Years Deck Officer | Current Merchant Marine License |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $85,447 to $158,322 per year. Compensation is managed through the Defense Civilian Intelligence Personnel System (DCIPS), which rewards performance and specific qualifications through structured pay bands.
Benefits
Employees of the NGA receive a robust federal benefits package. Key highlights include performance-based bonuses, opportunities for rapid career advancement, and comprehensive healthcare options. Additionally, the NGA invests heavily in the technical training of its personnel.
Application Tips
- Use the Tool: Always use the NGA-specific resume builder.
- Be Concise: Stick to the 2-page limit.
- Quantify: Use specific metrics for your navigational successes.
This role is an ideal fit for seasoned mariners looking to transition into a strategic, office-based intelligence role. If you meet the qualifications, submit your application via the NGA Careers Portal before the closing date to join one of the most critical agencies in the Department of Defense.
Why This Maritime Analyst (Hiring Event) Job Matters
Launch your career at the intersection of intelligence and maritime expertise with the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency.
Maritime Analyst (Hiring Event) Job Overview
The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) is seeking skilled Maritime Analysts to join their team in Springfield, Virginia. In this role, you will play a critical part in national security by collecting, analyzing, and consolidating complex maritime safety data. You will support global navigation efforts, provide essential quality assurance for nautical products, and manage critical navigational warnings that guide international maritime operations.
Requirements for Maritime Analyst (Hiring Event)
- U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance with SCI access.
- Must pass a Counterintelligence Polygraph examination and drug test.
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited maritime academy or related field (Astronomy, Cartography, Engineering, Physics, etc.) OR 4 years of specialized maritime navigational experience.
- Proficiency in navigation modalities (celestial, visual, radar, electronic, piloting, voyage planning).
- Must possess or be eligible for U.S. Merchant Marine Deck License credentials or equivalent military designations (e.g., OOD Underway, NAV, QMOW).
- Near visual acuity of 20/60 or better (with/without correction) and color vision capability.
Preferred Qualifications for Maritime Analyst (Hiring Event)
- Experience applying maritime safety knowledge to support Department of Defense or Intelligence Community requirements.
- Demonstrated expertise in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) database management.
- In-depth knowledge of horizontal/vertical datums, map projections, and coordinate systems.
- Proven track record of integrating intelligence tools into operational workflows.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary based on pay-band performance structures.
- ✓Potential for recruitment incentives based on eligibility.
- ✓Comprehensive federal benefits package including health and retirement programs.
- ✓Professional development and career progression opportunities within the intelligence community.
- ✓Opportunity to work in a high-security, mission-critical environment.
💡 How to Apply Maritime Analyst (Hiring Event) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Maritime Analyst (Hiring Event) Job
- Visit the NGA Careers Portal to register.
- Use the NGA-specific resume builder (limit your document to 2 pages).
- Detail your experience with specific examples linked to the mandatory qualifications.
- Submit your application electronically through the NGA portal before the closing date.
- Monitor your application status directly through the NGA online portal.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly follows the 2-page limit using the NGA builder.
- Focus on results: quantify your achievements regarding navigation accuracy or process improvements.
- Explicitly mention your specific navigation designations (e.g., OOD, QMOW) to assist reviewers.
- Proofread for clarity to ensure technical expertise is clearly conveyed to non-specialist reviewers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a cover letter to apply?
A cover letter is not strictly required but is highly recommended to further showcase your expertise.
What is the security clearance level for this role?
This position requires a Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) clearance.
Can I apply via email?
No, all applications must be submitted through the official NGA Careers Portal.
What is the polygraph requirement?
You will undergo a Counterintelligence Polygraph as part of your background investigation.
Is relocation assistance provided?
No, relocation assistance is not available for this role.
Job from National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency
The NGA is a vital member of the U.S. Intelligence Community and the Department of Defense. It provides the world-class geospatial intelligence required to ensure the safety of navigation, support humanitarian operations, and protect national interests across the globe. Joining the NGA means becoming part of an organization dedicated to technical excellence and global awareness.