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Geospatial Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Muon Space

Senior Applied Scientist, Geospatial

$123K - $176K/yr

D. in Physics, Remote Sensing, Earth Science, Computer Science, Engineering, or a related technical/scientific field. * 5+ years of experience in geospatial research, analysis, and imagery data ...

Turing

Geospatial Analyst - 51201

Boston, MA · Remote

Proven expertise in geospatial analysis, either through professional practice or academic research. Experience or Knowledge in One or More of the Following Domains * Crisis response and management (e ...

Geo Owl

Geospatial Analyst

Springfield, VA · On-site

As the Geospatial Analyst on NGA Maven, you'll bring imagery expertise, multi-INT analytical ... Select and execute multi-INT research methods; conduct descriptive analyses and exploit ...

Leidos

Geospatial Analyst

Reston, VA

$65K - $118K/yr

Prepare and manage geospatial datasets to support geotechnical characterization and geological research initiatives. * Maintain and organize geospatial data within enterprise geodatabases and ...

Geo Owl

Geospatial Analyst

Springfield, VA · On-site

As the Geospatial Analyst on NGA Maven, you'll bring imagery expertise, multi-INT analytical ... research and curation recommendations Why This Role Matters Mission Impact The imagery you ...

Leidos

Geospatial Analyst

Reston, VA · On-site

$65K - $118K/yr

Prepare and manage geospatial datasets to support geotechnical characterization and geological research initiatives. * Maintain and organize geospatial data within enterprise geodatabases and ...

Geo Owl

Geospatial Analyst

Springfield, VA · On-site

The Geospatial Analyst role focuses on providing geospatial and imagery expertise to enhance data ... research methods; conduct descriptive analyses and exploit intelligence databases to support ...

Vantor

Geospatial Platform Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

This person should be comfortable researching unfamiliar technologies, implementing solutions with ... Support geospatial visualization, 3D terrain/model visualization, imagery access, and map-based ...

Maxar

Geospatial Platform Engineer

Mclean, VA

This person should be comfortable researching unfamiliar technologies, implementing solutions with ... Support geospatial visualization, 3D terrain/model visualization, imagery access, and map-based ...

Vantor

Geospatial Platform Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

This person should be comfortable researching unfamiliar technologies, implementing solutions with ... Support geospatial visualization, 3D terrain/model visualization, imagery access, and map-based ...

Vantor

Geospatial Platform Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$161K - $236K/yr

This person should be comfortable researching unfamiliar technologies, implementing solutions with ... Support geospatial visualization, 3D terrain/model visualization, imagery access, and map-based ...

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All JobsGeospatial Research Jobs

Geospatial Research information

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$22K

$77.5K

$122K

How much do geospatial research jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for geospatial research in the United States is $77,494.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $54,500.00 and $80,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is geospatial research?

Geospatial research is the study and analysis of data that is associated with specific locations on the Earth's surface. It involves collecting, processing, and interpreting geographic information using tools like Geographic Information Systems (GIS), satellite imagery, and GPS technology. This research helps in understanding spatial patterns and relationships, which can be applied in fields such as urban planning, environmental management, disaster response, and transportation. Geospatial researchers often use both quantitative and qualitative methods to solve complex real-world problems. The field is rapidly growing with advances in technology and data availability.

What is the difference between Geospatial Research vs GIS Analyst?

AspectGeospatial ResearchGIS Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's or higher in Geography, GIS, or related fields; often includes research experienceBachelor's in GIS, Geography, or related; certifications like GISP beneficial
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, government agenciesGovernment agencies, private companies, consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageFocuses on developing new spatial methods, data analysis, and research projectsCreates, manages, and analyzes GIS data for projects and decision-making

While both roles involve spatial data, Geospatial Research emphasizes developing new methods and conducting studies, whereas GIS Analysts focus on managing and analyzing existing GIS data for practical applications.

What are some common challenges faced in a Geospatial Research role and how can they be addressed?

One common challenge in Geospatial Research is managing and processing large, complex datasets from various sources, which often require specialized software and data-cleaning techniques. Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams—such as urban planners, environmental scientists, and IT specialists—can present communication hurdles, as each discipline may use different technical language. To address these challenges, geospatial researchers often leverage robust project management tools, maintain clear documentation, and participate in cross-functional meetings to ensure alignment on project goals and data standards. Continuous learning about emerging GIS technologies and data analysis methods is also essential to stay effective in this evolving field.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Geospatial Researcher, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Geospatial Researcher, you need expertise in geographic information systems (GIS), spatial analysis, and data interpretation, often supported by a degree in geography, environmental science, or a related field. Familiarity with technical tools like ArcGIS, QGIS, remote sensing software, and programming languages such as Python or R is typically expected. Analytical thinking, problem-solving, and clear communication skills help you present complex spatial data and collaborate with interdisciplinary teams. These competencies are crucial for generating accurate insights, informing decision-making, and addressing spatial challenges in various sectors.
More about Geospatial Research jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Geospatial Research jobs? The most popular types of Geospatial Research jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Geospatial Research jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Geospatial Research jobs are:
Geospatial Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Geospatial Research job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 84% Full Time, 3% Part Time, 2% Contract, 9% Nights, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 88% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $77,494 per year, or $37.3 per hour.
Senior Applied Scientist, Geospatial

Senior Applied Scientist, Geospatial

Muon Space

Remote

$123K - $176K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

About the role
Muon Space is seeking a creative and technically rigorous Senior Applied Scientist, Geospatial to join our Mission Innovation team. In this high-impact, "zero-to-one" role, you will bridge the gap between scientific first principles and market-ready data products. You will not just be running existing pipelines; you will be the scientific engine and creative force exploring new applications of electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) geospatial imagery data, developing prototype products, and engaging directly with customers to discover the missions of tomorrow. Operating at the earliest stages of the business lifecycle, you will hypothesize and validate how Muon's unique EO/IR geospatial imagery datasets can solve critical challenges for defense, intelligence, and commercial end-users.
Responsibilities
  • Conduct first-principles scientific and technical analysis to formulate hypotheses for remote sensing electro-optical and infrared imagery data applications and novel use cases.
  • Perform feasibility studies, literature reviews, and trade studies to support development of early-stage mission and data concepts.
  • Analyze and manipulate pixel-level geospatial and spectral datasets to extract unique insights and validate new mission concepts.
  • Develop and generate prototype electro-optical and infrared imagery products and sample intelligence products that demonstrate unique capabilities of Muon's systems.
  • Support customer discovery and engagement efforts, translating operational pain points and needs into technical requirements and derived data solutions.
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with product management, business development, and engineering teams to identify and develop new markets, products, and technologies.
  • Support creation of technical proposals and white papers that articulate the differentiation and mission utility of Muon's offerings.
Qualifications
  • B.S., M.S., or Ph.D. in Physics, Remote Sensing, Earth Science, Computer Science, Engineering, or a related technical/scientific field.
  • 5+ years of experience in geospatial research, analysis, and imagery data product development.
  • Strong foundation in scientific first principles, including geospatial imagery analysis, spectral science, optical systems, and physics-based remote sensing.
  • Background in infrared, multispectral, hyperspectral, or similar remote sensing phenomenologies
  • Demonstrated proficiency in programming (e.g., Python, MATLAB, Julia) for advanced image processing and geospatial analysis.
  • Proven experience working directly with geospatial tools and manipulating raw, pixel-level data.
  • Strategic and creative mindset with the ability to reason through novel, ambiguous problems without established "cookbooks".
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to distill complex scientific concepts for diverse audiences.
  • Strong collaborative skills for working across disciplines like data engineering, satellite operations, and mission architecture.
  • Active security clearance or a willingness to obtain one for national security mission support.
Nice-to-have Skills
  • Experience working with IC/DoW missions and end-users on the application of geospatial intelligence (GEOINT) products.
  • Familiarity with early-stage business development and discovery processes.
  • Experience with experimental AI/ML frameworks applied to remote sensing datasets.
  • Familiarity with space systems development, especially satellite remote sensing.
Salary
The salary range for this role is $123,000 - $176,000 plus a competitive equity grant and comprehensive benefits package. Final compensation will be based on skills, qualifications, experience, and geographic location as assessed during the interview process
About Muon Space
Founded in 2021, Muon Space is an end-to-end Space Systems Provider that designs, builds, and operates LEO satellite constellations delivering mission-critical data. Our revolutionary, integrated technology stack enables customers to optimize every dimension of their missions for faster time-to-orbit and superior constellation remote sensing performance. Our state-of-the-art facility in the heart of Silicon Valley is optimized for manufacturing spacecraft and rapid, flexible payload integration at scale. From climate monitoring to national security, Muon Space is dedicated to delivering Earth Intelligence for a safer and more resilient world.
Taking Care of Our Team
At Muon salary is only part of our total compensation package. In addition to salary, full-time employees receive equity compensation as well as benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401k retirement plan, short & long term disability and life insurance. We also offer three weeks paid vacation for new employees, along with 12 paid holidays, unlimited sick time and paid parental leave.
Our mission embraces the entire planet and we believe our team should too. Muon is dedicated to creating a diverse and dynamic company and workforce. We believe in equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, age, national origin, citizenship, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, or gender identity. We value diversity in the workplace, and that starts with our applicants. We encourage you to apply, even if you don't check all the boxes, and we look forward to reviewing your application! In addition, if you need a reasonable accommodation as part of your application for employment or interviews with us, please let us know.
ITAR/EAR Requirements
This position requires access to export controlled information. To conform to U.S. Government export regulations applicable to that information, applicant must either be (A) a U.S. person, defined as a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (green card holder), (iii) refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, (B) eligible to access the export controlled information without a required export authorization, or (C) eligible and reasonably likely to obtain the required export authorization from the applicable U.S. government agency. The Company may, for legitimate business reasons, decline to pursue any export licensing process.

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