Explore how your federal experience as a Navigational Information (GS-1361) translates into civilian opportunities — including salary comparisons, transferable skills, certifications, and top employers.
Understand how your GS level aligns with common corporate roles, responsibilities, and compensation. This helps frame your experience in terms that civilian employers recognize.
| GS Level Group | Corporate Titles | Responsibilities | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-4 | Entry-Level Cartographer, Junior Geospatial Analyst, Assistant GIS Technician | Assist with data collection and mapping of navigational information. Support senior staff in creating maps and visualizing data using GIS software. Perform basic analysis of geographic data. | $35,000 - $50,000 |
| 5-7 | Geospatial Technician, GIS Analyst, Cartography Associate | Conduct routine analysis and maintain databases related to navigational information. Utilize GIS tools to create detailed maps and reports. Evaluate and interpret geospatial data to support decision-making. | $50,000 - $70,000 |
| 8-9 | Senior GIS Analyst, Cartography Specialist, Geospatial Data Scientist | Oversee complex GIS projects and manage data integrity in navigational systems. Lead mapping efforts and collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop navigational solutions. Provide training and support to junior team members. | $70,000 - $95,000 |
| 10-11 | Lead GIS Consultant, Navigation Project Manager, Geospatial Systems Manager | Direct navigation-related projects, ensuring compliance with federal standards in geospatial data. Manage teams of analysts and technicians, oversee project budgets, and provide strategic insights to upper management. Engage with stakeholders to identify navigational needs. | $95,000 - $120,000 |
| 12-13 | Geospatial Program Director, Senior Navigation Strategist, Geospatial Policy Advisor | Develop and implement geospatial strategies to enhance navigation systems within the organization. Collaborate with government agencies and other stakeholders to ensure adherence to regulatory requirements. Lead research initiatives to innovate navigational solutions. | $120,000 - $150,000 |
| 14-15 | Chief Geospatial Officer, Vice President of Navigation Services, Senior Operational Executive for Geospatial Solutions | Set the vision and strategy for all navigational information services within the enterprise. Drive innovation in the field of geospatial technologies and advocate for best practices in the industry. Manage large teams and budgets, report directly to senior leadership. | $150,000 - $200,000 |
| SES | Chief Information Officer (CIO), Executive Vice President of Geospatial Development, Senior Executive for Navigation Strategy | Lead the overall strategic direction of the organization’s navigational information initiatives. Establish partnerships and collaborations at the highest levels to promote data-driven decision-making and innovation. Oversee all operations, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and policies. | $200,000 - $300,000 |
Highlight the skills you've developed in federal service that directly apply to private sector roles. These core strengths help you stand out in interviews and on resumes.
Explore certifications and academic paths that enhance your value in the civilian job market. These credentials can bridge gaps and validate your expertise to employers.
Certified Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Professional (GISP)
The GISP certification validates knowledge and skills in the principles of GIS, which are essential for handling navigational information as seen in the GS-1361 series. This credential distinguishes an individual in the civilian sector by demonstrating expertise in spatial data management and analysis, which is highly valued in industries such as urban planning, environmental management, and transportation.
Project Management Professional (PMP)
The PMP certification showcases an individual's ability to manage projects effectively, a skill aligned with overseeing navigational information projects that require coordination, scheduling, and resource management typical in the GS-1361 role. This credential enhances employability in civilian positions by equipping candidates with leadership and project management skills that are crucial for timely and budgeted project completion.
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Remote Pilot Certification
This certification is essential for those working with drone technologies for navigational data collection and analysis, expanding the scope of a GS-1361 professional's expertise. In the civilian sector, having this certification opens opportunities in various industries like agriculture, real estate, and logistics where aerial data collection is becoming increasingly relevant.
Geospatial Intelligence (GEOINT) Certification
The GEOINT certification provides specialized knowledge in geospatial analysis and technologies, key components of navigational information management. This credential can set a candidate apart in the civilian job market, particularly in defense contracting, urban planning, and natural resource management where geospatial intelligence is critical.
Certified Survey Technician (CST)
The CST certification indicates proficiency in surveying practices, which are foundational for accurately detailing navigational information in a variety of formats. This certification is advantageous in civilian roles related to civil engineering, construction, and land use planning where precise measurements and mapping are necessary.
Environmental Science or Engineering Degree (Bachelor's or Master's)
A degree in Environmental Science or Engineering enhances understanding of how navigational data influences environmental impacts and land use planning, relevant for GS-1361 professionals. In the civilian sector, this educational background is highly sought after in environmental consulting firms, governmental agencies, and NGOs focused on sustainable development.
Autodesk Certified Professional: AutoCAD
This certification shows expertise in AutoCAD, a tool widely used for creating detailed navigational maps and engineering drawings. Proficiency in AutoCAD can significantly enhance job prospects in civilian roles in construction, architecture, and city planning by demonstrating the ability to create detailed and accurate visual representations.
Safety Management Systems (SMS) Certification
Understanding safety management systems is critical for maintaining compliance with regulations and ensuring the safety of navigational practices in various sectors. In the civilian domain, this certification can give an edge in aviation, transportation, and maritime industries, where safety is paramount.
See which companies and industries commonly hire professionals with your background. Use this insight to focus your job search and tailor your applications.
Get practical strategies to navigate the shift from federal to private sector work. Learn how to present your experience and avoid common transition pitfalls.
Stay informed on how your field is evolving and where opportunities are growing. These trends can guide your next steps and help you future-proof your career.
Transitioning from a federal position, specifically in a GS-1361 Navigational Information role, to a private sector job can be a significant change. However, with the right mindset, strategic planning, and understanding of how to effectively market your skills, this transition can be both rewarding and successful. Below, I outline essential strategies for making this career shift.
Embrace Change: Transitioning to the private sector often involves a different work culture and pace. Federal environments may emphasize stability, while the private sector can be more dynamic and fast-paced. Cultivating a willingness to adapt and embrace new challenges is crucial.
Value Your Experience: Federal roles often come with misconceptions about relevance to the private sector. Recognize that your experience in navigational information provides you with valuable skills in data analysis, logistics, and critical thinking, all of which are sought after in various industries.
Be Open to Learning: A willingness to learn new systems, technologies, or methodologies can set you apart. The private sector is often on the cutting edge of innovation, which may require you to upskill or adapt quickly.
Format for Readability: Use a clean, professional format that’s easy to read. The federal resume may be longer and more detailed; for private sector applications, focus on concise summaries and impactful bullets.
Translate Federal Language: Avoid jargon specific to the federal government. Instead, use industry-standard terminology that conveys your expertise. For example, instead of "managing federal navigational systems," try "overseeing complex navigational data systems in a project management role."
Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, include quantifiable achievements. Instead of "improved accuracy of navigational data," specify "increased navigational data accuracy by 30% over two years, resulting in a 15% improvement in operational efficiency."
Highlight Transferable Skills: Emphasize your analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills. Include any experience with technology, teamwork, and communication, which are essential in any private sector role.
Tailor for Each Application: Customize your resume for each job application by aligning your experiences with the job description, highlighting relatable skills and responsibilities.
Prepare for Behavioral Questions: Expect and prepare for behavioral interview questions. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses. This technique will help you articulate how your federal experience translates effectively into private sector scenarios.
Show Enthusiasm: Express your excitement about moving to the private sector. Employers value candidates who demonstrate genuine interest in the organization and role.
Research Your Potential Employer: Understand the company's culture, mission, and the specifics of the role you’re applying for. Be prepared to explain how your background will benefit their operations and align with their goals.
Ask Insightful Questions: Leverage your interviews to learn about the organization's vision and roadmaps. Asking thoughtful questions can demonstrate your strategic thinking and genuine interest.
Leverage Your Network: Inform your current network of your job search. Former colleagues, supervisors, or connections from industry-related events may provide leads, referrals, or advice.
Join Professional Organizations: Become a member of industry-specific associations or groups related to navigational information and data analysis. This opens up opportunities for meeting professionals and learning about the industry.
Attend Industry Conferences: Participate in conferences and workshops relevant to your field. These events are excellent for networking and understanding current trends in the private sector.
Utilize LinkedIn Effectively: Update your LinkedIn profile to reflect your new career direction. Use it to connect with industry peers, engage with relevant content, and showcase your expertise.
Conduct Informational Interviews: Reach out to individuals in roles you aspire to. These conversations can provide insights into the industry and may lead to job opportunities.
Identify Core Competencies: Focus on skills and experiences that have universal appeal, such as leadership, project management, data analysis, and teamwork. Frame your responsibilities in a way that is relatable across industries.
Use Comparable Job Titles: When appropriate, consider aligning your current job titles with industry equivalents (e.g., "Data Analyst" instead of "Navigation Systems Specialist") to convey relevance.
Focus on Impact: Highlight how your work positively affected outcomes. Emphasize the implications of your contributions and how they can be valuable in a different context.
Storytelling: Craft a narrative around your career transition, explaining how your unique background will bring value to potential employers, stressing your adaptability and versatility.
Transitioning to the private sector from federal employment can seem daunting, but it is a journey filled with potential growth and opportunities. Keep a positive attitude, persistently work on your networking, and continuously refine your resume and interview skills. Remember, your federal experience provided you with a solid foundation that is valuable in private sector roles. Stay confident, believe in your capabilities, and embrace the exciting new opportunities ahead!
With preparation and proactive effort, you will find a role that is not only fulfilling but also aligns with your skills and aspirations.