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Federal geodesist position performing geodetic surveys, precise positioning, Earth measurement, and geospatial reference frame work for NOAA, NGS, and federal mapping agencies.
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-1372
Degree: geodesy; or 30 semester hours in any combination of geodesy, mathematics, physics, astronomy, engineering science, surveying, geodetic surveying, photogrammetry, or geophysics. The course work must have included differential and integral calculus.
or
Combination of education and experience -- course work as shown in A above, plus appropriate experience or additional education.
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal geodesy 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-1372
Geospatial Engineers have a strong background in geospatial data collection and analysis, making them well-suited for geodetic roles in federal agencies.
While primarily focused on intelligence, this role involves significant geospatial analysis, which can be applied to geodetic tasks.
Intelligence Specialists with a focus on geospatial intelligence can transition to geodesy roles by leveraging their skills in geospatial data analysis.
💡 Tip: Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
Skill in conducting precise geodetic measurements.
Proficiency in satellite positioning systems.
Knowledge of geodetic datums and coordinate systems.
Strong mathematical skills for geodetic computations.
Ability to process and adjust geodetic data.
Knowledge of geodetic instruments and equipment.
Understanding of gravity measurements and geoid determination.
Skill in preparing geodetic reports and documentation.
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
A GS-1372 Geodesist performs precise measurements of the Earth's shape, size, and gravitational field. These scientists conduct geodetic surveys, establish precise positions using GPS/GNSS, analyze geodetic data, maintain geodetic reference networks, and determine geoid models for agencies like NOAA's National Geodetic Survey, NGA, and USGS—providing the foundation for all mapping and positioning activities.
Federal Geodesists earn between $34,454 (GS-5 Step 1) and $138,296 (GS-14 Step 10) on the 2025 GS scale. Most positions are at GS-9 through GS-13. A GS-12 Geodesist earns $75,706-$98,422. NOAA/NGS, NGA, and USGS are primary employers. Some positions involve field work with travel allowances.
GS-1372 requires a geodesy degree or 30 semester hours in geodesy, mathematics, physics, astronomy, engineering science, surveying, geodetic surveying, photogrammetry, or geophysics. Critically, coursework must include differential and integral calculus. Proficiency with GPS/GNSS technologies and geodetic computations are essential competencies.
The required education cannot be substituted with military experience alone. However, veterans with surveying or geomatics degrees combined with military GPS/survey experience are excellent candidates. Experience in Army survey units, Navy hydrographic surveying, or geospatial intelligence provides directly relevant background when combined with required education.
Geodesists follow the GS-5/7/9/11/12 progression with journey level at GS-12. Senior geodesists and project leads reach GS-13/14. Career paths include specializing in satellite geodesy, gravity field determination, or positioning standards. Some transition to policy roles at NOAA/NGS or leadership positions in geospatial agencies.
Search USAJOBS.gov for "Geodesist" under series 1372. NOAA National Geodetic Survey, NGA, and USGS are primary employers. Highlight GPS/GNSS proficiency, geodetic computation skills, and field survey experience. Include specific software expertise (adjustment programs, geodetic databases) and any professional surveying licenses in your federal resume.
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.