Explore how your federal experience as a Cartography (GS-1370) 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 | Junior Cartographer, GIS Technician, Mapping Associate | Assist in the creation and maintenance of maps using GIS software, collect data in the field, perform basic spatial analysis, and support senior cartographers in project tasks. | $40,000 - $60,000 |
| 5-7 | Cartographer, GIS Analyst, Geospatial Data Specialist | Develop and refine maps and geospatial data products, analyze spatial information, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and provide cartographic support for various projects. | $61,000 - $80,000 |
| 8-9 | Senior Cartographer, GIS Project Manager, Geospatial Analyst II | Lead mapping projects, oversee the production of geospatial data, ensure quality control of cartographic output, and mentor junior staff in GIS methodologies and tools. | $81,000 - $100,000 |
| 10-11 | Lead Cartographer, Geospatial Science Manager, Mapping Program Director | Manage large-scale mapping initiatives, develop strategic plans for geospatial projects, coordinate with stakeholders, and ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations. | $101,000 - $120,000 |
| 12-13 | Director of Cartography, Senior Geospatial Consultant, Geographic Information Systems Director | Direct and oversee the organization’s cartographic and geospatial operations, implement advanced geographic technologies, and serve as a primary liaison for senior leadership on mapping initiatives. | $121,000 - $150,000 |
| 14-15 | Chief Cartographer, Vice President of Geospatial Services, Geospatial Innovation Lead | Establish the vision for geospatial services, foster innovation in cartography, manage large budgets, and influence organizational strategy related to geographic data management and analysis. | $151,000 - $180,000 |
| SES | Senior Vice President of Cartography, Executive Director of Geospatial Technologies, Chief Geospatial Officer | Lead enterprise-wide initiatives in cartography, define strategic goals for geospatial data utilization, represent the organization in high-level discussions about geographic policy and technology trends. | $181,000 - $220,000 |
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.
GIS Professional (GISP)
The GIS Professional (GISP) certification demonstrates expertise in Geographic Information Systems, a critical component of modern cartography. Earning this credential provides recognition of skills and enhances employability in industries such as urban planning, transportation, and natural resource management.
Certified Geographic Information Systems Technician (GIS-T)
The GIS-T certification focuses on the technical aspects of GIS, validating skills in the use and application of geographic technologies. This certification is valuable for candidates transitioning into civilian roles that require proficiency in GIS software and cartographic principles.
Esri Technical Certification
Obtaining an Esri Technical Certification signifies proficiency in Esri software products widely used in the industry for cartography and spatial analysis. This certification makes a candidate more attractive to employers looking for expertise in leading geographic information software.
Map Design and Production Certificate
A certificate in Map Design and Production emphasizes practical skills in visualizing and creating maps, which are essential in both government and private sector roles. This credential showcases a candidate’s ability to communicate geographic information effectively, a key requirement in many civil service job openings.
Project Management Professional (PMP)
The Project Management Professional (PMP) certification equips candidates with project management skills essential for overseeing cartographic projects in civilian roles. This certification signals to employers that the candidate can manage timelines, resources, and stakeholder communications effectively.
Certified Geographic Information Systems Professional (CGISP)
The CGISP is an advanced certification that showcases in-depth knowledge and capabilities in GIS applications, a crucial asset for jobs that necessitate detailed geographic analysis. Achieving this certification distinguishes candidates as leaders in the field attributable to their commitment to professional development.
Post-Secondary Degree in Geography or Related Field
A degree in Geography or a related field provides foundational knowledge in spatial analysis, cartography, and geographic technologies, crucial for understanding the complexities of geographic space in civilian roles. Employers often prioritize candidates with formal education in these areas for positions in urban planning, environmental consulting, and resource management.
Cartography and Geographic Information Science Certificate
This certificate program offers a concentrated education in cartographic principles and techniques, enhancing the skill set of candidates. Completing this program can set a candidate apart in the job market, highlighting their specialized knowledge in cartography that is in high demand across numerous civilian sectors.
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 GS-1370 Cartography role to the private sector can be a rewarding yet challenging journey. It's important to approach this career shift with the right mindset, effective strategies, and tools that will allow you to present your skills and experience in the best possible light. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate this transition successfully.
Embrace Change and Flexibility: Moving from the structured environment of federal employment to the dynamic landscape of the private sector requires a willingness to adapt. Businesses often prioritize innovation and speed, so be prepared to adjust your workflows and adopt new methodologies.
Focus on Value Creation: In the private sector, the emphasis is often on profitability and efficiency. Learn to view your contributions from this perspective. Consider how your cartography skills can add value to a company’s objectives, whether it's through enhancing data visualizations for decision-making, streamlining processes, or improving customer experiences.
Be Prepared to Self-Promote: Unlike in federal work, where your accomplishments may be recognized through formal evaluations, in the private sector, initiative often comes from self-advocacy. Cultivate a narrative that showcases your achievements and how they relate to potential employer needs.
Translate Your Federal Experience: Use civilian-friendly language to describe your skills and experience. Replace jargon specific to federal employment with terms more commonly used in the private sector. For instance, instead of "conducted spatial analysis for policy decision-making," you might say "developed data-driven visualizations to inform strategic business decisions."
Highlight Transferable Skills: Emphasize skills that are in demand across industries, such as project management, teamwork, data analysis, and communication. Cartography often involves these competencies, especially when working collaboratively on projects or presenting findings to stakeholders.
Use Quantifiable Achievements: Include metrics and concrete results in your resume whenever possible. For instance, you might say, "Improved map accuracy by 30%, resulting in enhanced operational efficiency for federal land management projects."
Create a Professional Summary: Start your resume with a strong summary statement that succinctly captures your experience and what you bring to potential employers. Tailor this section for each application, emphasizing skills that are relevant to the job description.
Optimize for Keywords: Tailor your resume to include keywords from the job postings you're interested in. Many companies use applicant tracking systems (ATS) that screen resumes for specific terms related to the job.
Research the Company: Understand the company’s culture, values, and recent projects. Tailor your answers to reflect how your background aligns with their mission and how you can contribute.
Prepare for Behavioral Questions: Using the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method, prepare for questions that ask you to describe how you’ve handled situations in the past. This method helps you structure your answers clearly and effectively.
Showcase Adaptability: Highlight instances where you’ve had to learn new skills or adapt to changing environments. This can demonstrate your readiness for the fast-paced nature of the private sector.
Ask Insightful Questions: At the end of interviews, be prepared with thoughtful questions that reflect your interest in the role and the company. Questions about current projects or future challenges can demonstrate your eagerness to contribute meaningfully.
Leverage LinkedIn: Optimize your LinkedIn profile to reflect your new career goals. Connect with former colleagues, join relevant industry groups, and participate in discussions to expand your network.
Attend Industry Events: Look for conferences, seminars, or local meetups in your field of interest. Events like GIS-related conferences can provide opportunities to meet industry professionals and learn more about the private sector landscape.
Informational Interviews: Reach out to professionals currently working in your desired roles. Request informational interviews to gain insights into their experiences and advice on transitioning. This can also help you build relationships that may lead to job opportunities.
Join Professional Organizations: Become a member of organizations related to cartography and GIS in the private sector. These associations often provide valuable resources, networking opportunities, and job boards to aid your transition.
Focus on Outcomes: Emphasize how your work led to positive outcomes. For example, if you created a mapping tool, talk about how it improved productivity or decision-making processes.
Frame Your Work in Terms of Business Needs: When discussing your experience, align your skills with the goals of potential employers. For example, mention how your cartography expertise can aid in market analysis, customer segmentation, or operational planning.
Utilize Action Verbs: Choose impactful verbs that convey a sense of action and leadership. Words like "developed," "optimized," "collaborated," and "innovated" can convey a proactive mindset.
Transitioning from a federal cartography role to the private sector is an opportunity to leverage your experience while broadening your horizons. Embrace the challenges that come with change, stay flexible, and actively showcase the skills and experiences that make you a valuable asset to potential employers. Focus on continuous learning and keep building your network. Each connection and application brings you closer to your next opportunity. With the right preparation and mindset, you are well-positioned to make a successful transition to the private sector.