Explore how your federal experience as a Geodesy (GS-1372) 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 Geodesist, Geospatial Technician, Entry-Level Geospatial Analyst | Assist in the collection and processing of geospatial data. Support senior staff in conducting geodetic surveys and analysis. | $40,000 - $52,000 |
| 5-7 | Geospatial Analyst, Survey Technician, Geodesist II | Conduct geodetic measurements and analyses. Prepare maps and models from geospatial data and assist in field surveys. Create reports detailing survey findings. | $52,000 - $75,000 |
| 8-9 | Geodesist, Senior Geospatial Analyst, Geospatial Project Manager | Oversee geospatial projects and coordinate field survey efforts. Ensure the accuracy of geospatial data and provide technical guidance to junior staff. Analyze and interpret geospatial data to support decision-making processes. | $75,000 - $95,000 |
| 10-11 | Lead Geodesist, Geospatial Engineering Manager, Geospatial Solutions Architect | Direct geodesy projects and collaborate with other engineering disciplines. Manage data collection strategies, interpret detailed geospatial analyses, and improve methodologies. Present findings to stakeholders and contribute to technical publications. | $95,000 - $120,000 |
| 12-13 | Geodesy Program Manager, Senior Geospatial Consultant, Director of Geospatial Services | Lead strategic initiatives in geodesy and ensure compliance with industry standards. Mentor teams of geodesists and geospatial analysts. Liaise with government agencies and coordinate large-scale projects and budgets. | $120,000 - $150,000 |
| 14-15 | Senior Director of Geospatial Technology, Chief Geospatial Officer, Head of Geodesy and Surveying Operations | Set the vision for geospatial services and drive innovation in geodesy. Develop policies and strategies that align with organizational goals. Represent the organization in high-level meetings and manage key stakeholder relationships. | $150,000 - $200,000 |
| SES | Executive Vice President of Geospatial Services, Geospatial Operations Executive, Senior Executive for Geodesy and Survey | Develop and oversee organizational strategy in geodesy on a national scale. Ensure alignment of geospatial initiatives with corporate objectives. Manage high-level relationships with public and private sector partners. | $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.
Professional Land Surveyor (PLS) License
Obtaining a PLS license demonstrates a professional level of competence in surveying and geodesy, aligning closely with the skills acquired in the GS-1372 Geodesy job series. This certification is highly regarded in the civilian sector and can enhance credibility and marketability in roles involving land surveying, mapping, and geospatial analysis.
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Certification
A GIS Certification shows proficiency in spatial analysis and the ability to manage and analyze geographical data, which is essential for roles in urban planning, environmental science, and resource management. In the civilian job market, this certification can set job candidates apart in fields requiring geospatial expertise and data-driven decision-making.
Certified Survey Technician (CST)
The CST certification highlights a specialized understanding of surveying techniques and practices, making it advantageous for those seeking positions related to land navigation and boundary determination. This credential is recognized in the private sector and can enhance a candidate's qualifications for roles that require practical surveying experience.
Project Management Professional (PMP)
The PMP certification signifies a robust understanding of project management methodologies, which is beneficial for managing complex geodetic projects in the civilian landscape. Organizations value this credential as it indicates an ability to lead projects efficiently while adhering to budget and timelines.
Remote Pilot Certification (Part 107)
With the rise of drone technology in surveying and geodesy, having a Remote Pilot Certification allows individuals to operate UAVs for data collection, making them more versatile in their job capabilities. This certification can be a competitive advantage in civilian roles that leverage aerial data for mapping and surveying applications.
Certified Geographic Information Systems Professional (GISP)
The GISP certification reflects advanced skills in GIS principles and practices, enhancing an individual's expertise in spatial data management and analysis. This credential is increasingly sought after across various industries, especially in planning, environmental consulting, and governmental roles.
Foundation of Geospatial Intelligence (GEOINT) Certification
The GEOINT certification provides knowledge about geospatial analysis, satellite imagery interpretation, and geographic data utilization, directly aligning with competencies developed in the GS-1372 series. This certification can open doors to roles in defense contracting, intelligence agencies, and private sector geospatial companies.
Master’s Degree in Geomatics or Geodesy
Pursuing a Master's degree provides in-depth knowledge of geodesy, mapping sciences, and advanced surveying techniques, positioning candidates favorably for advanced roles in both private and public sectors. Such a degree is often preferred for senior technical roles or management positions in geospatial organizations.
Bachelor’s Degree in Surveying or a Related Field
A Bachelor's degree is foundational for acquiring essential skills in measurement, data interpretation, and analysis required in geodesy. This academic qualification not only satisfies entry-level requirements in civilian jobs but also is critical for continuing professional development and advancement.
Lean Six Sigma Certification
Lean Six Sigma certification demonstrates skills in process improvement and efficiency, which can be valuable in roles involving project management in geospatial operations. This training prepares individuals to streamline processes, reduce waste, and enhance service delivery in civilian organizations.
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.
Embarking on a transition from a federal position to the private sector can be both exciting and daunting. As a GS-1372 employee, you have amassed valuable skills and experiences, but communicating these in a way that resonates with private sector recruiters is essential for a successful transition. Here’s a comprehensive guide to assist you in this journey.
Embrace Change: The private sector operates differently than the federal government in terms of culture, pace, and expectations. Start by mentally preparing yourself for a more dynamic work environment that may prioritize flexibility and rapid decision-making.
Understand the Value of Your Skills: Recognize that the analytical, technical, and project management skills you’ve developed as a geodesist are highly transferable and valued in many industries. Embrace your expertise as an asset, not as a limitation.
Adopt a Results-Oriented Mindset: While federal positions often emphasize process and compliance, the private sector is deeply focused on measurable results, efficiency, and profitability. Reframe your accomplishments in terms of impact and outcomes rather than just activities.
Be Open to Learning: The private sector may employ tools, technologies, and methodologies that are different from what you are used to. Approach this change with an open mind, and be willing to learn and adapt.
Translate Federal Language: Use clear, concise language that is meaningful to private sector employers. Replace jargon and acronyms specific to federal roles with terms commonly used in the industry. For instance, instead of “administered federal projects,” you might say “managed diverse geospatial projects from initiation to completion.”
Highlight Transferable Skills: Identify and highlight skills that are relevant to the private sector—such as project management, data analysis, and stakeholder engagement. Clearly articulate how these skills contribute to achieving business objectives.
Focus on Achievements: Shift from listing duties to highlighting accomplishments. Use quantifiable results to demonstrate your impact. Instead of stating “conducted geodetic surveys,” you might say “conducted over 50 geodetic surveys, improving data accuracy by 20%.”
Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume for each job application based on the job description. Research and incorporate keywords that align with the requirements of the position.
Prepare for Behavioral Questions: Be ready to answer behavioral interview questions using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Prepare specific examples that demonstrate your problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and adaptability.
Communicate Your Value Proposition: Clearly articulate your unique value to the organization. Explain how your federal experience sets you apart and how you can contribute to the company’s goals. Focus on the unique insights you can bring from your geodesy background.
Practice Your Story: Develop a cohesive narrative about your career path and your rationale for transitioning from the federal sector to the private sector. Practice delivering this story in a compelling way that highlights your motivations and aspirations.
Be Enthusiastic and Engaged: Show your excitement for the opportunity and the company. Prepare insightful questions that reflect your interest and knowledge about the organization and its projects or goals.
Leverage LinkedIn: Update your LinkedIn profile to reflect your private sector aspirations. Connect with professionals in your desired industry and engage with relevant content to raise your visibility.
Join Professional Associations: Many industries have professional organizations that can provide networking opportunities, conferences, and resources. Consider joining associations related to geospatial sciences or project management to meet potential employers.
Utilize Informational Interviews: Reach out to individuals working in roles that interest you and request informational interviews. This is a great way to learn about industry trends, and job opportunities, and to expand your network.
Attend Industry Events: Participate in conferences, workshops, and seminars in your field. These events can provide invaluable networking opportunities and insights into the private sector landscape.
Focus on Impact: Frame your federal experiences in terms of their impact and relevancy to potential employers. For instance, discuss how your geodetic expertise helped improve infrastructure planning or natural resource management, creating economic efficiencies.
Understand Employer Needs: Research the industry and specific companies you are targeting. Understand their priorities, challenges, and culture, and then align your experience to showcase how you can address these needs.
Use Universal Skills Language: Key skills such as communication, analysis, leadership, and problem-solving are universally sought after. Emphasize these skills and how they were developed during your federal service.
Consider Certifications: If relevant to your targeted field, consider obtaining certifications that are prestigious in the private sector. This adds credibility to your profile and helps bridge any knowledge gaps.
Transitioning from a GS-1372 Geodesy position to a role in the private sector can be a fulfilling journey, rich with opportunities. Focus on your transferable skills, reshape your narrative, and embrace the change ahead. With careful preparation, networking, and a positive mindset, you can successfully navigate this new chapter in your career.