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Aerial Lidar Operator information

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$13

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$28

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.

Senior Remote Sensing Technician

Minnetonka, MN • On-site

Westwood Professional Services Inc
Engineering Professional Services • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Westwood Professional Services Incexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 19 hours ago

Key responsibilities

  • Perform post-processing procedures on aerial data to create final deliverables for various markets.

  • Ensure the accuracy and reliability of deliverables derived from LiDAR and imagery data by conducting quality control checks and troubleshooting technical issues.

  • Collaborate with Remote Sensing Project Leads and other stakeholders to support the successful execution of remote sensing projects.

Westwood Professional Services rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

104th of 454 rated engineering

Job description

Description:

Westwood Professional Services, Inc. is seeking a Senior Remote Sensing Technician to join our team. Westwood’s growing Geospatial Department provides professional-level products to its clients, leveraging the latest in industry technology. Westwood has a highly experienced, dynamic team dedicated to providing high-level professional services to our clients.


The Senior Remote Sensing Technician is responsible for post-processing aerial data to final deliverables supporting multiple markets and users. This role involves ensuring the accuracy and reliability of all deliverables created from LiDAR and imagery data from both manned and unmanned aircraft, troubleshooting technical issues, and conducting quality control checks. The Senior Remote Sensing Technician will work closely with Remote Sensing Project Leads and other stakeholders to support the successful execution of projects.

Requirements:

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Work closely with Remote Sensing Leadership and Project Leads to meet project expectations.
  • Perform post-processing procedures according to internal guidelines and industry best practices.
  • Create final deliverables based on project scope for various markets ready for the client as final deliverables.
  • Troubleshoot technical issues related aerial datasets.
  • Conduct thorough quality control checks to ensure the accuracy and reliability from junior technicians.
  • Stay updated on the latest advancements and best practices in remote sensing.
  • Assist in the development and implementation of standard operating procedures for aerial deliverables.
  • Collaborate with software vendors to address issues and obtain necessary support.
  • Participate in training programs and workshops to enhance technical knowledge and skills.
  • Assist with testing and implementation of new software.

Required Experience:

  • Minimum 5+ years of experience or Associate degree or equivalent in a related field (e.g., geomatics, surveying, remote sensing).
  • Minimum 3+ years in a senior technician role.
  • ASPRS certifications highly desired.
  • Strong understanding of LiDAR and remote sensing principles and data processing.
  • Proficiency in using Remote Sensing software and tools, such as, TerraSolid, RiProcess, MicroStation, MetaShape, Photoshop, PLS-CADD, TopoDOT.
  • In depth knowledge of coordinate systems and projections.
  • Industry experience in power generation and delivery, DOT, and renewables.
  • Scripting and light programming knowledge to support automation.
  • Familiarity with surveying techniques and equipment for project control understanding.
  • Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to work with precision.
  • Effective communication and teamwork skills.
  • Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
  • Willingness to adapt to changing technologies and industry trends.


Note: This job description is a general outline of the key responsibilities and qualifications of a Remote Sensing Calibration Technician. It is not exhaustive and may be subject to change based on the specific needs of the organization and projects.



About Westwood Professional Services, Inc. (Westwood)

At Westwood, our purpose is to create a better world for people through our work. We transform the energy grid, design resilient infrastructure, and develop communities that will flourish today and for future generations. With over 50 years of experience and a legacy of innovation, we stand at the forefront of our industry, dedicated to understanding the unique needs of the markets we serve.


Join us in creating a better world.

In 2025, Westwood was recognized as #77 on the ENR Top 500 Design Firms. Additionally, Westwood was ranked #5 for ENR's Top Design Firm for Solar, #6 for Battery Storage, and #3 for Wind (2025). The firm consistently ranks on the industry's top 25 lists and receives recognition for its involvement in award-winning projects nationwide.  


Westwood provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. We believe that diverse backgrounds strengthen our business. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

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