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Aerial Sensor Operator Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Metrea

Head of Crew Training

Tampa, FL · On-site

These include airborne ISR, electronic warfare, secure communications, aerial refueling, special ... This role is responsible for ensuring pilots, Airborne Sensor Operators, and other assigned flight ...

SICE

MINI EXCAVATOR OPERATOR

Deerfield Beach, FL · On-site

$21.75 - $28.75/hr

Trenching for ITS elements such as sensor pits, conduit installations, handholes, cabinets, and ... Use of ladders and aerial lifts to access elevated work areas. * Dexterity: Proficient use of hand ...

SICE INC

MINI EXCAVATOR OPERATOR

Deerfield Beach, FL · On-site

Trenching for ITS elements such as sensor pits, conduit installations, handholes, cabinets, and ... Use of ladders and aerial lifts to access elevated work areas. * Dexterity: Proficient use of hand ...

Metrea Management LLC

Senior Field Engineer

Tampa, FL · On-site

$125K - $135K/yr

... aerial firefighting, and advanced simulation.   Wherever we operate, we build vertically ... With operators and engineers under one roof, we close the gap between lab and field--what we call ...

Metrea

Structures Technician

Tampa, FL · On-site

Our operating model is built around three interlocking pillars. The Support Groups provide a global ... Perform installations of ISR and mission system structures, including sensor mounts, antenna ...

Orion Edge Group

Controls Engineer

Tampa, FL · On-site

$95K - $105K/yr

... aerial vehicles (UAVs), or multi-axis gimbal systems. * Sensor Fusion: Practical experience ... Experience with real-time operating systems (RTOS) or real-time Linux kernels (PREEMPT_RT)

Orion Edge Group

Controls Engineer

Tampa, FL · On-site

$95K - $105K/yr

... aerial vehicles (UAVs), or multi-axis gimbal systems. * Sensor Fusion: Practical experience ... Experience with real-time operating systems (RTOS) or real-time Linux kernels (PREEMPT_RT)

Maxar

ISR Collection Analyst

Tampa, FL · On-site

Vantor is forging the new frontier of spatial intelligence, helping decision makers and operators ... unmanned aerial systems (UAS), and sensor management processes. * Knowledge of Middle East and ...

DS2

Software Engineer - Defense R&D

Niceville, FL · On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

Operate sensors, cameras, or LiDAR to gather high-quality imagery or aerial data. * Run test and ... Has experience related to unmanned systems, autonomous systems, sensor/payload integration or ...

DS2

Software Engineer - Defense R&D

Niceville, FL · On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

Operate sensors, cameras, or LiDAR to gather high-quality imagery or aerial data. * Run test and ... Has experience related to unmanned systems, autonomous systems, sensor/payload integration or ...

DS2

Software Engineer - Defense R&D

Niceville, FL · On-site

$80K - $110K/yr

Operate sensors, cameras, or LiDAR to gather high-quality imagery or aerial data. * Run test and ... Has experience related to unmanned systems, autonomous systems, sensor/payload integration or ...

All JobsAerial Sensor Operator JobsAerial Sensor Operator Jobs in Florida

Aerial Sensor Operator information

See Florida salary details

$9

$20

$55

How much do aerial sensor operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for aerial sensor operator in Florida is $20.56, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.87 and $21.26 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

How to become an aerial sensor operator?

To become an aerial sensor operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with specialized training in sensor systems, remote sensing, or related fields. Experience with aircraft operations, proficiency in operating sensor equipment, and obtaining relevant certifications or security clearances are often required. On-the-job training is common, and familiarity with aviation safety protocols is beneficial.

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.

How much do aerial sensor operators make?

Aerial sensor operators typically earn between $50,000 and $80,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the complexity of the equipment used. Salaries can increase with specialized skills, certifications, and working in high-demand environments such as defense or surveying projects.
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Aerial Sensor Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aerial Sensor Operator job openings in Florida as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,756 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

Aerial Sensor Operator

Greenman-Pedersen, Inc.

Orlando, FL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Description
GPI Geospatial is seeking an Aerial Sensor Operator to conduct data acquisition of both high-resolution imagery and LiDAR from our aircraft, which is based at our office in Orlando, FL. This individual must be able to work independently and in a team setting. The ideal candidate is self-motivated with excellent problem-solving abilities as well as verbal and written communication skills. There is an opportunity for career development within the company. All relevant experience levels will be considered.
Do you value a company that puts employee satisfaction and diversity at the forefront of who they are? If so, GPI Geospatial wants you!
GPI Geospatial is a premier mapping firm for Transportation, Energy, Planning, Design, Construction, and Land Development throughout North America. Our vision is to be the most trusted provider of precision mapping, imagery, LiDAR, and land surveying services. We are part of GPI, a multi-discipline engineering firm that has been providing planning, design, and construction services for transportation infrastructure and building system projects throughout the United States for over 50 years. Ranked in the Top 100 Firms by Engineering News-Record, GPI is a forward-thinking, innovative firm with a culture that is committed to excellence and fosters staff empowerment. For more information, visit: www.gpinet.com
Responsibilities:
  • Perform a pre/post-flight inspection of the sensors
  • Oversee and performs routine maintenance of aerial mapping systems
  • Safety-minded aircraft operation adhering to FAA and company safety guidelines
  • Timely completion of necessary fight logs and data transfer duties
  • Maintain mission and personal readiness always for deployment
  • Coordinates with pilot and Acquisition Managers for project assignments
  • Collaborate with other flight crews on mission efficiency and effective operations
  • Acquire airborne data using LiDAR and/or digital multi-spectral imagery from our aircraft
  • Understand and communicate the capabilities and limitations of the sensor and system
  • Coordinate with system operators, pilots, management, and other third parties as required to accomplish the collection missions
  • Ensure safe and secure use of company equipment and instrumentation
  • Coordinate with system manufacturers to troubleshoot field-related issues
  • Provided pilot with project information for imagery/LiDAR collection of specific targets and determined optimal sensor settings
  • Coordinates with data management on all projects regarding mission statistics
  • Provided guidance and information to pilots and otherwise assist with mission planning, field operations, and debriefing

Qualifications:
  • Must have at least an H.S. Diploma
  • No experience necessary, but prior aerial survey and/or flight operation experience very helpful
  • Computer system knowledge and networking is helpful
  • Willingness to travel up to 65%
  • Fly mapping missions up to 5.5 continuous hours. Multiple daily flights possible with an hour rest between
  • Work during early mornings, late evenings, weekends, and possibly holidays
  • Deployed for extended periods for larger missions
  • Non-pressurized flight operations, exposure to the cold and heat, elements of the seasons, and turbulence
  • Participation in significant physical lifting, pushing, and pulling activities related to aircraft loading and unloading

Requirements
  • Maintain a valid driver's license with a clean motor vehicle report (MVR) for final consideration
  • Read, write, and understand plans and directions given in the English language
  • Basic computer skills with the ability to create and edit Microsoft Word and Excel documents, create Outlook emails and utilize SharePoint and Microsoft Teams to
  • communicate with other team members
  • Able to stand for approximately 3 hours minimum a day up to 8 hours
  • Able to wear GPI required PPE, i.e., hard hats, safety vest, work boots, and/or safety glasses/goggles while working

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