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Aerial Lidar Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Digital Aerial Solutions, LLC

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Entry-Level Sensor Operator

Riverview, FL · On-site

$41K/yr

Digital Aerial Solutions LLC (DAS) is looking for an entry-level Sensor Operator who would like to learn the aspects of survey and mapping and the aspects of airborne lidar and imagery acquisition.

Mariana Minerals

Drone Operator

Moab, UT · On-site

The Drone Operator ensures all drone missions are executed in accordance with applicable aviation ... Collect aerial imagery, video, LiDAR, photogrammetry, and other operational data. * Verify data ...

Exus Renewables North America

GIS Manager

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$81K - $109K/yr

Experience with processing Aerial LIDAR Digital Elevation Model Data (DEM), Drone Imagery, or other ... and operator of utility-scale renewable energy projects, dedicated to advancing clean energy ...

VECTORNET

VDC Project Manager

Tampa, FL · On-site

Experience operating terrestrial, mobile, and/or aerial LiDAR systems. * Experience with Autodesk ReCap, RIEGL RiSCAN Pro, Leica Cyclone, or comparable point cloud processing software. * Working ...

COOPER AERIAL SURVEYS CO

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Land Surveyor RLS - Experienced RLS w/ Drone

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

Experience operating GPS, robotic total stations, and related survey equipment * Proven work ... Experience with Trimble workflows, photogrammetry, LiDAR, or aerial mapping is a plus, but we're ...

COOPER AERIAL SURVEYS CO

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Land Surveyor RLS - Experienced RLS w/ Drone

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

Experience operating GPS, robotic total stations, and related survey equipment * Proven work ... Experience with Trimble workflows, photogrammetry, LiDAR, or aerial mapping is a plus, but we're ...

Allan Myers, Inc

$60 - $80/hr

... responsible for operating unmanned aerial systems (UAS) to support surveying, construction ... Capture high-resolution imagery and LiDAR data for topographic mapping, site analysis, and quantity ...

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Aerial Lidar Operator information

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How much do aerial lidar operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for aerial lidar operator in the United States is $21.84, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an aerial lidar operator do?

An Aerial Lidar Operator is responsible for operating Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) equipment mounted on aircraft to collect precise topographic data. They manage the setup, calibration, and operation of the LiDAR system during flight missions, ensuring accurate data acquisition over designated areas. After flights, they often assist with initial data processing and troubleshooting any technical issues. The data collected is used in mapping, surveying, forestry, and other geospatial applications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an aerial lidar operator?

To thrive as an Aerial Lidar Operator, you need expertise in geospatial data collection, remote sensing, and a background in geography, surveying, or a related field, often supported by relevant certifications. Familiarity with Lidar sensors, GPS systems, GIS software, and data processing tools like TerraScan or LAStools is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills help operators manage field operations and collaborate with project teams. These competencies ensure accurate data acquisition and efficient project delivery in mapping and surveying applications.

What are the typical challenges an aerial lidar operator faces during data collection missions?

Aerial Lidar Operators often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, complex terrain, and strict airspace regulations, all of which can impact flight planning and data quality. Ensuring equipment calibration and troubleshooting technical issues on-site is also common. Effective communication and coordination with pilots and survey teams are crucial for mission success. Flexibility and adaptability are key, as changing project requirements or environmental factors may require rapid adjustments to flight plans.

What is the difference between Aerial Lidar Operator vs Aerial Survey Technician?

AspectAerial Lidar OperatorAerial Survey Technician
CredentialsGIS certifications, drone pilot licenses, lidar-specific trainingSurveying certifications, GIS knowledge, drone operation experience
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, remote, often in rugged terrainsOutdoor, on-site, often in construction or land development sites
Industry UsageMapping, forestry, infrastructure planningLand surveying, construction, environmental assessment

Both roles involve outdoor data collection using drones or aircraft, but Aerial Lidar Operators specialize in operating lidar sensors for high-precision 3D mapping, while Aerial Survey Technicians focus on collecting various survey data, including imagery and GPS points. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus within the aerial data collection industry.

What are popular job titles related to Aerial Lidar Operator jobs?

For Aerial Lidar Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Aerial Lidar Operator job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,418 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Aerial Sensor System Operator

Red Bluff, CA • On-site

Sharper Shape
Software Development • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Sharper Shapeexternal

$35/hr

Full-time

Medical

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description


Aerial Sensor System Operator
Part-Time - Temporary
Sharper Shape, a leader in aerial remote sensing data collection and processing, is looking for adventurous and technically savvy people to operate a complex optical, LiDAR, and hyper-spectral sensor system on helicopters.
The successful candidate will have:
  • An iron constitution that isn't prone to motion sickness
  • Ability to operate complex computer software systems
  • Strong communication skills even in noisy and chaotic environments
  • Be willing to travel extensively
  • Bonus: Experience with LiDAR and high-end aerial camera systems

The Aerial Sensor System Operator will play a key role infield operations performing aerial data collection, sensor installations, pre-flight/post-flight inspections, troubleshooting, repairs, and data quality assurance. This is a field-based position requiring extensive travel by helicopter while simultaneously collecting ultra-high-resolution photographs, LiDAR and Hyperspectral data. This position will last for approximately 5 months with operations located primarily in California.
Responsibilities:
  • Perform daily flight planning for collection operations
  • Work in helicopters to capture aerial data around the electric utility grid
  • Operate a complex aerial multi-sensor system including EO, LiDAR and Hyperspectral sensors
  • Continuously monitor the system's performance and the quality of the data being collected
  • Manage large datasets and accurately transfer data assets from the sensor system to the post-processing team
  • Create daily reports to document the progress of flight operations
  • Routine maintenance and troubleshooting of the sensor system
  • Assist with uninstalling and re-installing the system as needed to accommodate the helicopter maintenance schedule
  • Consolidate, validate, and upload data collected

Minimum Qualifications:
  • Experience with Microsoft Office suite, Google Earth, and basic GPS analysis software
  • Strong computer skills and ability to manage massive data sets
  • Ability to quickly learn new hardware and software systems
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work well in a team environment
  • Demonstrated ability to think clearly and stay calm in highly stressful situations

Desired Qualifications:
  • Experience working in and around helicopters as a Crew Chief, Pilot or Mechanic
  • Prior experience as an Airborne Sensor Operator
  • Experience working in and around busy flight lines
  • Experience operating ground or airborne LiDAR sensors
  • Knowledge of aerial survey technologies and aerial sensor systems, ideally as they relate to electric utility system inspections
  • Experience with maintaining, installing and troubleshooting airborne sensors

Physical Requirements:
  • Prolong periods of sitting in the back of a helicopter while looking at screens
  • Ability to work long days in extreme weather conditions, early mornings or late evenings
  • Able to lift up to 50 pounds at a time
  • Appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is required while working in and around aircraft

Anticipated project dates run August 1st through October 31st, subject to change. Position is hourly and eligible for overtime. The typical work week is anticipated to be 40 hours. Position pays $35 - $45 per hour, depending on experience. This position is not eligible for company provided benefits. Candidate must provide evidence of health insurance and Worker's Comp. Employment offers are subject to pre-employment background and drug screening.

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