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Aerial Sensor Operator Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

... aerial firefighting, and advanced simulation.  Wherever we operate, we build vertically ... Interface with Sensor Operators and analysts to guide product generation in alignment with client ...

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Aerial Sensor Operator information

See Washington salary details

$12

$27

$74

How much do aerial sensor operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for aerial sensor operator in Washington is $27.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.00 and $28.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an Aerial Sensor Operator job?

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 the most commonly searched types of Aerial Sensor Operator jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Aerial Sensor Operator jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Aerial Sensor Operator jobs in Washington? For Aerial Sensor Operator jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Aerial Sensor Operator jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Aerial Sensor Operator jobs in Washington are:
Infographic showing various Aerial Sensor Operator job openings in Washington as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,627 per year, or $27.7 per hour.
Senior Geospatial Analyst - SkillBridge Exclusive Opportunity

Senior Geospatial Analyst - SkillBridge Exclusive Opportunity

Dewberry

Fairfax, VA • On-site

$87K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago


Dewberry rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Job Description
Dewberry is currently seeking a Senior Geospatial Analyst in our Tampa, FL or Fairfax, VA office. This is an excellent career opportunity for an individual to join a team of professionals while working in a multidisciplinary consulting and engineering firm. The firm succeeds through the individual and collaborative skills of its people therefore we offer opportunities for professional growth while working with and applying the latest technology. Typical responsibilities are to work on the GIS/IT and Remote Sensing related projects for state and federal clients across the US. Responsibilities include creating and reviewing script/macro development, training, production, QC, and process improvement (innovation) for the Product Line.
Remote positions will be considered, dependent on experience.
Dewberry is a leading, market-facing professional services firm with more than 50 locations and 2,000 professionals nationwide. What sets us apart from our competitors are our people. At Dewberry, we seek out exceptional talent and strive to deliver the highest quality of services to our clients. Whether you're an experienced professional or a new graduate, you'll have the chance to collaborate with the best and brightest and work on innovative and complex projects at the forefront of the industry. Our commitment to excellence stems from our personal integrity and from other defining attributes, which we call "Dewberry at Work," that have inspired our employees to be successful for more than a half-century.
Don't meet every single requirement? At Dewberry we are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive workplace for our employees. We recognize that every military career is unique, so if you're excited about this role, but your experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification in the position description, we encourage you to apply anyways. You may just be the right candidate for this or other opportunities.
Responsibilities
Primary Responsibilities of this position include, but are not limited to:
  • Creating Scripts/Models/Macros for multiple sensor platforms
  • Work with the Product Line Lead to assist in the execution of projects, on time and within budget.
  • Data Management and Handling: Planning and monitoring production data, management needs and working with IT and Operations to ensure adequate resources are available; Ensuring data management protocols are met including the use of proper files and formats as well as file locations, storage, and backups.
  • Perform work that appropriately follows all quality control steps and practices are implemented throughout processes to ensure deliverables meet client specifications.
  • Provide feedback and support for developing and/or updating SOPs as necessary.
  • Works with production staff to support process improvements; working with other Technology/Process Improvement teams to review best practices to enhance product line, gain efficiencies, and improve quality.
  • Support improvements to automation of the production and QC process through providing technical guidance and ideas
  • Multi-sensor processing, manipulation, and production.
  • The ability to analyze point clouds and various geospatial data layers derived from point cloud data.
  • Proficiency in basic computer applications, especially MS Office (Word, Excel, and Access).

Beneficial Skills or Experiences:
  • Formal Education in a Surveying/Geomatics/GIS or related field desired
  • Ability to attend and speak at conferences, communicate with business partners for future opportunities.
  • Project Manager experience or certification
  • Working experience with Terrasolid Products and MicroStation
  • LASTools, LP360, Global Mapper, QGIS experience.
  • Working knowledge of Python and/or other programming languages
  • GDAL Tools, and command line applications highly desirable
  • ArcGIS Data Review and Production Editing experience
  • NGA certifications, GISP Certification, ASPRS certifications in Lidar or other Remote Sensing technologies
  • Experience as an Aerial Sensor Operator
  • Current and valid security clearance

Required Skills & Required Experience
  • 8+ years of experience working with the initial processing, analysis, data classification of imagery and topographic/ bathymetric lidar projects.
  • An understanding of GIS and Lidar data and concepts including a strong knowledge of various raster and vector data types, coordinate systems, projections, and datums
  • Understanding of Lidar production workflow and being able to explain the conceptual basis of Lidar acquisition, processing, and deliverable creation. Understanding of elevation products.
  • In-depth knowledge of ESRI's products including ArcGIS 10x, ArcPro.
  • Strong communication skills
  • Able to manage multiple tasks, resolve problems quickly and efficiently, and openly collaborate
  • Quality Assurance, documentation and providing feedback.
  • Ability to handle multiple priorities under tight schedules as required
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Experience mentoring, training junior geospatial staff.

Additional Requirements:
US Citizen
Must have a valid driver's license, good driving record, and ability to pass a driving record background check.
*At this time, Dewberry will not sponsor a new applicant for work authorization.
*Dewberry is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, gender identity or sexual orientation.
*Only recipients of an offer of employment from Dewberry, will be required to submit to a background screening which may include, but is not limited to, employment verification, educational and other credential verification, driving record check, criminal background check, and an investigative consumer report. These screenings will be conducted by Dewberry's background vendor of choice and will be conducted in compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local law.
Notice to Third Party Recruiters: Dewberry only compensates job placement recruiters that have a valid Dewberry-approved written agreement in place for recruiting services. Dewberry does not compensate third party recruiters for unsolicited job placement candidate information.

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