Senior Interactive Cartographer

$137,700 - $145,000/Yr

National Geographic Society - Washington, DC

Full-time - Mid Level

Hybrid - Washington, DC

Publishing Industries

About the position

The Basecamp Senior Interactive Cartographer will lead the design and development of animated maps and motion graphics for the National Geographic Society's Base Camp Construction project. This role focuses on creating impactful visual content while maintaining the high standards of National Geographic's cartographic products. The position involves collaboration with various teams and requires a strong background in cartography, motion graphics, and data visualization.

Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization, research, design, and art-direction of animated maps and motion graphics.
• Create VR/AR experiences and data visualizations for various media, including museum exhibits and mobile content.
• Research and analyze spatial data from authoritative sources to create maps and graphics.
• Ensure cartographic products conform to National Geographic Map Policy and conventions.
• Collaborate with Map Research Editor, NG Explorers, and freelancers on mapping projects.
• Mentor colleagues and provide constructive critique on mapping content.
• Develop innovative animated cartographic methods and interactive technologies.
• Stay informed on the latest technologies for interactive map and graphics development.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in geography, cartography, motion graphic design, data journalism, animation, data science or related field; Master's Degree preferred.
• 7+ years of work experience in cartography and motion graphics.
• Strong portfolio of interactive or animated maps demonstrating high-level design acumen and creativity.
• Experience designing and incorporating maps into video and motion graphics.
• Expertise in cartography, GIS, and remote sensing using commercial or open source software.
• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud, especially Photoshop, Illustrator, Premiere Pro, and After Effects.
• Experience with 3D tools like Blender, Maya, or 3ds Max for creating geospatial visualizations.
• Strong visual and interactive design skills with a grasp of typography, layout, and color.

Nice-to-haves

• Proficiency in a language other than English.
• Background in National Geographic's core topics such as photography, space exploration, and natural history.
• Familiarity with web development and online cartography tools like Figma, Javascript, HTML, and CSS.
• Experience with cloud-based analytical platforms like Google Earth Engine.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with matching contributions
• Flexible paid time off benefits with up to 22 days of paid annual leave
• 12 paid holidays and a paid winter break
• Paid parental leave and adoption reimbursement
• Learning and development opportunities
• Lifestyle Spending Account
• Pet adoption assistance and insurance
• Pre-tax transportation benefits
• Employer-paid life insurance and disability benefits