Explore how your federal experience as a Cartographic Technician (GS-1371) 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, Geospatial Analyst I, Entry-Level GIS Technician | Assist in the preparation and maintenance of cartographic materials, support data collection processes, and perform basic GIS tasks under supervision. | $40,000 - $53,000 |
| 5-7 | Cartographer, GIS Analyst II, Geospatial Data Technician | Conduct map analysis and production, manage geospatial databases, and interpret geographic data to create visual representations and maps that meet project requirements. | $53,000 - $72,000 |
| 8-9 | Senior Cartographic Analyst, GIS Specialist, Geospatial Information Scientist | Lead cartographic projects, develop complex mapping products, manage projects involving spatial data, and collaborate with teams to design and implement GIS solutions. | $72,000 - $94,000 |
| 10-11 | Cartography Project Manager, Senior GIS Technician, Geospatial Project Lead | Oversee cartographic projects from conception to completion, ensure compliance with quality standards, provide expert analysis on geospatial data, and mentor junior staff in GIS methodologies. | $94,000 - $120,000 |
| 12-13 | Geospatial Solutions Manager, Senior Cartography Strategist, Lead GIS Analyst | Develop and drive strategic initiatives related to cartographic projects, assess the effectiveness of cartographic methods, and coordinate with various departments to enhance mapping capabilities. | $120,000 - $150,000 |
| 14-15 | Director of Cartography, Principal Geospatial Scientist, Senior Vice President of Geospatial Services | Manage the overall direction of the cartographic department, set high-level strategic objectives, ensure alignment with organizational goals, and represent the organization in external engagements related to geospatial technologies. | $150,000 - $200,000 |
| SES | Chief Geospatial Officer, Executive Director of Cartographic Services, Vice President of Geospatial Strategy | Provide visionary leadership for cartographic and geospatial initiatives across the organization, influence high-level policy decisions, and drive innovation within the field of geospatial analysis. | $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 Geospatial Technician (CGT)
The CGT credential demonstrates proficiency in geospatial technologies and techniques, directly relevant to the skills of a Cartographic Technician. Earning this certification shows potential employers your commitment to professional standards and your technical capabilities in mapping and spatial analysis, making you a stronger candidate for civilian roles in GIS and mapping.
Geographic Information Systems Professional (GISP)
The GISP certification indicates a high level of expertise in Geographic Information Systems, which are crucial for modern cartography and mapping processes. This certification enhances your credibility and showcases your comprehensive understanding of spatial data management, analysis, and visualization, setting you apart in a competitive job market.
Esri Technical Certification (ArcGIS Desktop Professional)
This certification focuses on proficiency with ArcGIS, one of the leading software platforms used in cartography and geospatial analysis. Having a specialized certification indicates to employers that you are skilled in using industry-standard tools to create maps and analyze spatial data, which is essential for many civilian cartographic positions.
Project Management Professional (PMP)
While not specifically for cartography, PMP certification enhances your management skills, which is valuable in overseeing mapping projects or teams in the civilian sector. Demonstrating your ability to lead and manage projects can be a significant advantage in roles that require coordination between different departments or stakeholders.
Bachelor's Degree in Geography, Geospatial Sciences, or a related field
A bachelor's degree provides foundational knowledge in geographical concepts, spatial analysis, and cartographic techniques that are directly applicable to the work of a Cartographic Technician. Holding this degree can not only meet job requirements but also enhance your understanding of spatial dynamics in civilian employment roles.
Master's Degree in Geographic Information Science (GIS)
A master's degree provides advanced training in geospatial analysis and technology, equipping you with specialized skills that are highly sought after in the civilian job market. This degree can also position you for higher-level roles or management positions, creating more career advancement opportunities.
Cartography and Geographic Information Systems Certification from Professional Organizations
Certifications from recognized professional organizations reflect a commitment to the standards and ethics of the field, which is valued in civilian employment. These credentials often require ongoing education and assessments, showcasing your dedication to staying current in cartographic practices and technology.
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 role, like a GS-1371 Cartographic Technician, to the private sector can feel daunting, but it is an exciting opportunity to leverage your unique skills and experience in new and rewarding ways. Here’s a comprehensive look at mindset shifts, resume and interview tips, networking strategies, and how to translate your federal experience into language that resonates in the private sector.
Embrace Flexibility: The private sector often demands adaptability. Be prepared to adjust your approach based on the evolving needs of your employer or the project at hand. Understand that while government jobs may have had more rigid structures, the private sector is often more dynamic.
Value Your Unique Perspective: Your experience in the federal government provides a unique lens through which to view problem-solving. Understand that this perspective can be invaluable in a private sector role. Emphasize how your background enhances your ability to approach projects from diverse angles.
Focus on Outcomes: In the private sector, success is frequently measured by results rather than adherence to process. Shift your mindset to focus on the achievements and contributions you made in your federal role, framing them around tangible outcomes.
Cultivate a Growth Mindset: Transitioning to a new environment may involve learning new tools and embracing different challenges. Stay open-minded and view this as an opportunity for growth rather than a daunting change.
Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume for the role you’re applying for. Highlight relevant technical skills, software proficiency (like GIS tools), and any leadership or project management experience. Ensure your accomplishments are quantifiable, such as "developed maps that improved decision-making processes for X number of divisions."
Use Private Sector Language: Translate your duties and accomplishments into terms that resonate with private sector employers. For example, instead of "ensured compliance with federal mapping regulations," you could say, "developed mapping solutions that met industry standards within budget and timelines."
Focus on Transferable Skills: Emphasize skills such as project management, teamwork, problem-solving, analytical thinking, and communication. Show how these skills have practical applications in the role you’re applying for.
Prepare for Behavioral Interviews: Be ready to showcase your accomplishments and how you overcame challenges. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to frame your responses effectively.
Show Enthusiasm for Learning: Employers in the private sector value candidates who are eager to learn and grow. Be prepared to discuss your willingness to adapt and develop new skills that may be pertinent to the job.
Leverage LinkedIn: Update your LinkedIn profile to reflect your skills and experiences in a way that appeals to private sector employers. Connect with industry professionals, join relevant groups, and participate in discussions to expand your network.
Attend Industry Events: Look for conferences, workshops, or networking events related to cartography, GIS, or your desired industry. These are great opportunities to meet potential employers and learn more about current trends.
Informational Interviews: Reach out to current employees in roles you are interested in and request informational interviews. This can provide valuable insights into company culture and the expectations for the position you are pursuing.
Utilize Professional Associations: Join associations related to cartography and GIS, such as the American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS). These organizations can provide resources for job postings, networking, and professional development.
Mentorship: Seek out a mentor who has successfully transitioned from federal to private sectors. They can provide valuable guidance, support, and insider information about navigating the job market.
Focus on Results and Impact: Instead of listing tasks and responsibilities from your federal role, emphasize the impact of your work. For example, rather than saying you "created maps for federal agencies," you might say you "designed innovative mapping solutions that enhanced operational efficiency for cross-departmental projects."
Use Action Verbs: Start bullet points with strong action verbs such as "developed," "led," "analyzed," and "implemented". This approach demonstrates your proactive contributions.
Quantify Achievements: Where possible, quantify your achievements. For example, mention if your mapping solutions led to reducing costs by a certain percentage or completed projects ahead of schedule.
Highlight Cross-Functional Collaboration: Emphasize any collaboration with other departments or agencies that required effective communication and teamwork—skills that are highly valued in the private sector.
Adapt Terminology: Familiarize yourself with industry-specific jargon to bridge the gap in understanding. Use resources such as job descriptions in the industry to identify key terms and skills relevant to your desired role.
Transitioning from a federal role to the private sector is a significant step that requires strategic planning and a positive outlook. Embrace the opportunity to showcase your skills and position yourself as a valuable asset to potential employers. By adjusting your mindset, tailoring your resume and interview tactics, expanding your professional network, and translating your experiences effectively, you can make a smooth transition and pave the way for future success. Stay persistent, stay optimistic, and remember that your unique background is a powerful tool in the job market.