Loading...
Loading...
Federal geographer position performing geographic analysis, cartography, spatial research, and geospatial intelligence work for federal agencies including USGS, NGA, and Census Bureau.
2025 Base Pay (before locality adjustment)
| Grade | Step 1 | Step 2 | Step 3 | Step 4 | Step 5 | Step 6 | Step 7 | Step 8 | Step 9 | Step 10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GS-5 | $34,454 | $35,603 | $36,752 | $37,901 | $39,050 | $40,199 | $41,348 | $42,497 | $43,646 | $44,786 |
| GS-7 | $42,679 | $44,102 | $45,525 | $46,948 | $48,371 | $49,794 | $51,217 | $52,640 | $54,063 | $55,486 |
| GS-9 | $52,205 | $53,945 | $55,685 | $57,425 | $59,165 | $60,905 | $62,645 | $64,385 | $66,125 | $67,865 |
| GS-11 | $63,163 | $65,268 | $67,373 | $69,478 | $71,583 | $73,688 | $75,793 | $77,898 | $80,003 | $82,108 |
| GS-12 | $75,706 | $78,229 | $80,752 | $83,275 | $85,798 | $88,321 | $90,844 | $93,367 | $95,890 | $98,422 |
| GS-13 | $90,025 | $93,026 | $96,027 | $99,028 | $102,029 | $105,030 | $108,031 | $111,032 | $114,033 | $117,034 |
| GS-14 | $106,382 | $109,928 | $113,474 | $117,020 | $120,566 | $124,112 | $127,658 | $131,204 | $134,750 | $138,296 |
Note: These are 2025 base pay rates. Most federal employees receive locality pay adjustments of 15-40%+ depending on location.
Official OPM qualification standards for GS-0150
Degree: geography; or related physical or social science such as geology, meteorology, economics, statistics, sociology, anthropology, political science, history, cartography, computer science, urban studies, or planning that included at least 24 semester hours in geography or related fields.
OR
Combination of education and experience: courses equivalent to a major in geography, or a related field that included at least 24 semester hours in geography or related fields, as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal geography position
Read the OPM qualification standards above to understand the education and experience requirements for your target grade level.
Match your years of experience and education to the appropriate GS grade. Generally: GS-5 (entry), GS-7/9 (junior), GS-11/12 (journey), GS-13+ (senior).
Collect your DD-214, SF-50 (if applicable), transcripts, certifications, and any training records that demonstrate your qualifications.
Create a detailed federal resume (2-5 pages) that addresses every qualification requirement. Include hours worked per week, supervisor contact info, and specific accomplishments.
Search for open positions, carefully answer all assessment questions, and submit your application before the closing date.
Military jobs that transition to GS-0150
Geography series - perfect alignment with GEOINT work.
Geography series values geospatial and imagery skills.
Geographic analysis skills transfer. Terrain analysis and geospatial data management experience.
💡 Tip: Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
Ability to analyze spatial patterns and relationships.
Expert knowledge of geographic information systems.
Skill in creating maps and geographic visualizations.
Knowledge of satellite imagery analysis and interpretation.
Ability to apply statistical methods to geographic data.
Skill in managing large geospatial datasets.
Knowledge of geographic research methodologies.
Ability to prepare geographic reports and documentation.
Skill in conducting geographic fieldwork and data collection.
Knowledge of GIS software (ArcGIS, QGIS, etc.).
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
A GS-0150 Geographer studies spatial relationships, mapping, and geographic information systems for federal agencies. These professionals analyze geographic data, create maps, support land management decisions, and apply geospatial technology at agencies including USGS, Census Bureau, and intelligence agencies.
Geographers earn between $34,454 (GS-5 Step 1) and $138,296 (GS-14 Step 10) under the 2025 GS pay scale. Most positions are GS-11/12/13, earning $63,163-$117,034 annually plus locality adjustments.
GS-0150 positions require education and/or experience in geography, cartography, or GIS. A degree with 24 semester hours in geography or related coursework qualifies for entry-level. Higher grades require progressively more specialized experience in geospatial analysis.
Military experience with geospatial intelligence, mapping, terrain analysis, or GIS systems is directly applicable. Those who worked with NGA products, tactical mapping, or imagery analysis have transferable skills. Combined with geography education, military geospatial experience is highly valued.
The career ladder follows GS-5/7/9/11/12/13/14 intervals. Entry-level geographers support mapping and analysis. GS-11/12 geographers lead geospatial projects. Senior positions involve program management and technical leadership in geographic information systems.
Search USAJOBS.gov for 'Geographer' or '0150' series. Major employers include USGS, Census Bureau, and NGA. Your federal resume should highlight GIS software proficiency (ArcGIS, QGIS), cartographic experience, and spatial analysis skills.
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.