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Aerial Sensor Operator Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

Field Engineer Sr - E3

Yuma, AZ · On-site

$65K - $121K/yr

The Q-53 has demonstrated the ability to identify and track unmanned aerial systems (UAS), showing ... Desired Skills Experience with Linux operating system Demonstrated ability to work with minimal ...

Field Engineer Sr - E3

Yuma, AZ · On-site

$65K - $121K/yr

The Q-53 has demonstrated the ability to identify and track unmanned aerial systems (UAS), showing ... Desired Skills Experience with Linux operating system Demonstrated ability to work with minimal ...

Aerial Sensor Operator information

What is an aerial sensor operator?

An Aerial Sensor Operator is responsible for managing and operating specialized imaging, mapping, or surveillance equipment aboard aircraft. They work in various industries, including defense, environmental monitoring, and aerial surveying. Their duties include calibrating sensors, collecting high-quality data, and ensuring accurate geospatial positioning. Operators must have technical expertise in sensor systems, strong attention to detail, and the ability to work in dynamic flight environments.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an aerial sensor operator?

Aerial Sensor Operators are typically responsible for setting up, calibrating, and operating sophisticated sensor equipment during aerial missions to capture high-quality data. Their daily duties often include planning flight paths with pilots, monitoring sensor performance in real-time, collecting and logging data, troubleshooting equipment issues, and conducting preliminary data analysis. They may also be involved in maintaining sensor equipment and ensuring all data is transmitted securely to ground teams. Collaboration with pilots, mission planners, and data analysts is a key part of the job, requiring strong communication and teamwork skills for successful mission outcomes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the aerial sensor operator position, and why are they important?

Aerial Sensor Operators require a solid understanding of aerial imaging technologies, data analysis, and mapping, usually supported by relevant technical training or a degree in a related field. Familiarity with GIS software, various sensor payloads (such as LiDAR, multispectral, and infrared), and, in some cases, flight operation certifications like FAA Part 107 are typical requirements. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective teamwork and communication are important soft skills. These qualifications ensure accurate data collection, smooth mission execution, and successful collaboration in high-stakes and dynamic aerial operations.

What are popular job titles related to Aerial Sensor Operator jobs in Arizona?

For Aerial Sensor Operator jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Aerial Sensor Operator jobs in Arizona look for?

The top searched job categories for Aerial Sensor Operator jobs in Arizona are:

Infographic showing various Aerial Sensor Operator job openings in Arizona as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 52% Full Time, 46% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Field Engineer Sr - E3

Yuma, AZ • On-site

Lockheed Martin Corporation
Manufacturing • 10K+ employees

$65K - $121K/yr

Full-time, Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Lockheed Martin rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 400 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Standard Job Description
WHO WE ARE
The AN/TPQ-53 radar system has a long, rich history protecting the U.S. Army for more than a decade. The Q-53 has proven experience detecting mortars, rockets and artillery and is responsible for keeping troops protected, ensuring a safe return home to their families.
The solid-state phased array AN/TPQ-53 radar system, or, Q-53, detects, classifies, tracks and determines the location of enemy indirect fire in either 360 or 90 degree modes. The Q-53 replaced the legacy AN/TPQ-36 and AN/TPQ-37 medium-range radars in the U.S. Army's inventory. Compared to the Q-36 and Q-37, the Q-53 provides enhanced performance, including greater mobility, increased reliability and supportability, lower life-cycle cost, and reduced crew size.
The Q-53's active electronically scanned array (AESA) provides the foundation for multi-mission capabilities. The Q-53 has demonstrated the ability to identify and track unmanned aerial systems (UAS), showing the capacity to incorporate air surveillance simultaneously with counter target acquisition in a single sensor.
This position is an opportunity to working a fast-paced team-oriented environment supporting an established radar Field Engineering Team. In this role the candidate will become a member of an established team working at the Yuma Proving Grounds supporting the TPQ-53 program. The candidate will be supporting multiple roles and duties daily. These duties include but are not limited to: 1. Troubleshooting radar and associated assemblies, subassemblies, mechanical and electronic system components for deficiencies and malfunctions. 2. Repair, remove, and replace defective components and parts. 3. Administrative duties as it pertains to the following activities: a. Hardware security, test equipment tracking, purchase requisitions, and equipment moves. b. Prepare and maintain equipment logs in existing program databases as required. 4. Perform other duties as assigned by the team lead a. Emergency change installation b. General lab organization and support c. Support other team members as required Most of the work will be conducted at the Yuma Proving grounds. The candidate will be required to support domestic and international travel (Low, Medium, and High Risk) as needed.
WHY JOIN US
Your Health, Your Wealth, Your Life
As an employee at Lockheed Martin, your health and well being are paramount. From medical insurance, to legal help and tuition reimbursement, we provide benefits to improve your life. Come check out all of the amazing benefits Lockheed Martin has to offer.
Learn more about Lockheed Martin's comprehensive benefits package
Basic Qualifications
Willingness to be flexible in performance of the work schedule and ability to work either first or second shift as the mission requires.
Hardware troubleshooting experience.
Must be able to effectively utilize technical and engineering data to perform problem analysis and troubleshooting to the lowest applicable hardware level to restore normal operational availability.
Strong customer skills.
Proficient computer skills, particularly with troubleshooting both computer hardware and software deficiencies and to execute software install procedures.
Bachelors degree from an accredited college in a related discipline, or equivalent experience/combined education, with 5 years of professional experience; or 3 years of professional experience with a related Masters degree. Considered career, or journey, level.
Desired Skills
Experience with Linux operating system
Demonstrated ability to work with minimal oversight.
Strong logistic skills and attention to detail.
Experience with a Logistics Management System to track hardware removals, installations, defect reports, etc.
Experience with engineering collaboration
Pay Information
Full-Time Salary Range: $65200.00 - $121200.00
At Lockheed Martin, we know mission success starts with taking care of our people. Our Total Rewards program is designed to attract top talent, support your well-being, and help you grow-both professionally and personally.
The salary range for this position is as listed on the requisition. Please note that the salary information listed is a general guideline only. Lockheed Martin considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate's work experience, education/ training, key skills as well as market(work location) and business considerations when extending an offer.
Benefits offered: Medical, Dental, Vision, Flexible work arrangements and schedules (e.g., 4x10), 401(k) match, Paid time off, Holidays, Parental Leave, EAP, Flexible Spending Accounts, Education Assistance, Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, and Long-Term Disability.
  • Annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs may be offered depending on the position. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and can vary from year to year and are tied to a range of performance metrics.
  • For (Washington state applicants only) Non-represented full-time employees: accrue at least 10 hours per month of Paid Time Off (PTO) to be used for incidental absences and other reasons; receive at least 90 hours for holidays. Represented full time employees accrue 6.67 hours of Vacation per month; accrue up to 52 hours of sick leave annually; receive at least 96 hours for holidays. PTO, Vacation, sick leave, and holiday hours are prorated based on start date during the calendar year.

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About Lockheed Martin

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

As a global security and aerospace company, the majority of Lockheed Martin's business is with the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. federal government agencies.The remaining portion of Lockheed Martin's business is comprised of international government and commercial sales of products, services and platforms.

Industry

Manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Bethesda, MD, US

Year founded

1912