Launching Your Career as a Maritime Cartographer at the NGA
Are you passionate about geography, data analysis, and national security? The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) is currently seeking talented individuals to fill the role of Cartographer Maritime GIS Analyst. This unique position offers you the chance to work at the intersection of advanced technology and global strategy in Springfield, Virginia.
Job Responsibilities
As a Maritime Cartographer, you will:
- Ensure the quality and accuracy of cartographic data for international and military partners.
- Create and refine GEOINT data and web services.
- Analyze various sources including foreign nautical charts, survey bathymetry, and satellite imagery.
- Contribute to the modernization of cartographic tradecraft and standards.
Requirements
To be eligible for this role, candidates must:
- Be a U.S. citizen.
- Possess a background in Cartography, GIS, or related sciences (minimum 30 semester hours).
- Meet specific physical requirements, including color vision and near visual acuity.
- Be eligible for a Top Secret/SCI security clearance.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $57,736 to $101,097 per year, depending on qualifications and pay band assignment.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $57,736 - $101,097 |
| Location | Springfield, Virginia |
| Employment Type | Permanent, Full-time |
| Security Clearance | Top Secret / SCI |
Benefits
Employees at the NGA benefit from a robust career development structure. Through the Career Advancement Program (CAP), you can receive performance-based raises and may be eligible for non-competitive promotion to Pay Band 3.
Application Tips
- Use the NGA Resume Builder: Do not use a generic resume; the portal requires the specific NGA tool.
- Keep it Concise: Your resume must be limited to two pages.
- Highlight GIS Skills: Clearly demonstrate your experience with specific software and analytical techniques.
If you have a background in GIS and a desire to serve your country in a challenging, technical environment, the NGA Maritime Cartographer role is the perfect next step for your career. Prepare your application materials today.
Why This Cartographer Maritime Gis Analyst (Hiring Event) Job Matters
Launch your career at the forefront of national security by mastering maritime data as a Cartographer for the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency.
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 play a critical part in maintaining global maritime safety by producing and managing vital geospatial intelligence datasets. You will analyze complex data from foreign charts, satellite imagery, and navigation reports to provide actionable intelligence that supports military, humanitarian, and international operations. This is an exceptional opportunity to apply your GIS expertise to real-world security challenges in a high-impact, professional environment.
Requirements for Cartographer Maritime Gis Analyst (Hiring Event)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance with SCI access
- Completion of a polygraph examination and drug testing
- Bachelor's degree in Cartography or a related field (or an equivalent combination of education and experience)
- Completion of at least 30 semester hours in specific scientific/mathematical coursework
- Ability to distinguish principal colors and shades
- Near visual acuity of 20/60 or better
Preferred Qualifications for Cartographer Maritime Gis Analyst (Hiring Event)
- Proficiency in GIS software tools for topographic and nautical chart analysis
- Experience in photo interpretation techniques for feature identification
- Strong background in geospatial quality assurance and quality review processes
- Experience integrating super intelligence (SI) tools into operational systems
- Demonstrated ability to perform feature data extraction from diverse imagery sources
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal salary structure
- ✓Opportunities for non-competitive promotion via the Career Advancement Program
- ✓Annual performance-based pay increases and bonuses
- ✓Comprehensive health and retirement benefits
- ✓Collaborative and mission-critical work environment
💡 How to Apply Cartographer Maritime Gis Analyst (Hiring Event) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Cartographer Maritime Gis Analyst (Hiring Event) Job
- Review the specific mandatory criteria and gather relevant supporting documentation.
- Access the official NGA Careers Portal to initiate your application.
- Create a profile and utilize the NGA resume builder (limited to 2 pages).
- Upload any optional materials, such as a cover letter, via the application portal.
- Submit your electronic application before the closing date at 11:59 PM EDT.
💡 General Tips
- Focus your resume on providing concrete examples of your GIS and cartographic accomplishments.
- Clearly address the mandatory qualification criteria in your application narrative.
- Ensure your resume reflects the level and complexity of your past work experience.
- Monitor your application status regularly through the NGA portal.
- Even though optional, a cover letter is highly recommended to highlight your unique qualifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Career Advancement Program?
The Career Advancement Program (CAP) allows employees in Pay Band 2 to be evaluated semi-annually. Upon meeting specific requirements, employees are eligible for salary increases and potential non-competitive promotion to Pay Band 3.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, this position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance with SCI access, which includes polygraph and drug testing.
Can I submit a resume in any format?
Applicants must use the NGA-specific resume builder and are limited to a maximum length of two pages.
What happens after I apply?
You can track your application status directly through the NGA Careers Portal.
Do I need a cover letter?
While not mandatory, it is highly recommended to provide context for your professional experience.
Job from National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency
The NGA is the world leader in providing timely, relevant, and actionable geospatial intelligence (GEOINT). By evaluating imagery, terrain data, and various light spectrums, NGA personnel provide decision-makers with a critical "decision advantage." Working here means you are part of a team that helps warfighters, policymakers, and first responders visualize the world in ways that matter most.