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Airborne Sensor Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

System Dynamics Intl

MQ-9 Sensor Operator

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$78.94 - $83.73/hr

Sensor Operators will perform duties as flight test crew members employing airborne sensors. ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES Test Planning and Execution Review test plans, test cards, and other ...

Department of the Air Force

... (RPA). RPA Sensor Operators employ airborne sensors in manual or computer-assisted modes to ... actively acquire, track, and monitor airborne, maritime and ground objects. Operates mission ...

GDIT

ASW Training Specialist

San Diego, CA

$76K - $103K/yr

... Sensor Operator (ASO), Active ASO, Surface Common Airborne Undersea Sensor System Functional Segment (SCFS), and Undersea Warfare Control Functional Segment (UCFS) watch stations. HOW AN ASW Training ...

Metrea

Aviation Recruiter

Temecula, CA · On-site

These include airborne ISR, electronic warfare, secure communications, aerial refueling, special ... for pilots, sensor operators, and other flight operations talent. This role is ideal for a ...

General Atomics

Attorney III

San Diego, CA · On-site

$116K - $208K/yr

... airborne sensor systems, advanced electric and electronic technologies, wireless and laser ... operating procedures and practices. * Performs other duties as assigned or required. Job ...

General Atomics

Attorney IV

San Diego, CA · On-site

$140K - $252K/yr

... airborne sensor systems, advanced electric and electronic technologies, wireless and laser ... operating procedures and practices. * Performs other duties as assigned or required. Job ...

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All JobsAirborne Sensor Operator JobsAirborne Sensor Operator Jobs in California

Airborne Sensor Operator information

See California salary details

$23.5K

$64.3K

$152.8K

How much do airborne sensor operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for airborne sensor operator in California is $64,325.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,252.00 and $98,412.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Airborne Sensor Operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Airborne Sensor Operator, you need strong technical aptitude, attention to detail, and typically a background in aviation, military operations, or geospatial sciences. Proficiency with sensor systems such as LiDAR, radar, electro-optical/infrared cameras, and relevant software platforms is commonly required, along with certifications such as an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate for UAV operations. Excellent teamwork, communication, adaptability, and problem-solving skills help individuals excel in fast-paced, mission-driven environments. These competencies ensure precise data collection and analysis while maintaining safety and effective collaboration during airborne missions.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of an Airborne Sensor Operator?

As an Airborne Sensor Operator, your daily responsibilities often include planning and preparing sensor equipment before flights, operating and monitoring airborne sensors to collect data, and ensuring the accuracy and quality of the gathered information. You may work closely with pilots, mission coordinators, and data analysts to achieve mission objectives, regularly reviewing and calibrating sensor performance as needed. Post-flight, you are usually involved in initial data processing and reporting, identifying and troubleshooting any equipment or data issues. This role typically involves varying schedules and adaptability to changing mission parameters, making strong organizational skills essential for success.

What is an Airborne Sensor Operator job?

An Airborne Sensor Operator is responsible for operating and maintaining specialized sensors and imaging equipment on aircraft to collect data for various purposes, such as mapping, surveillance, or scientific research. They work closely with pilots and mission planners to ensure accurate data capture. This role requires technical expertise in sensor systems, navigation, and data processing. Operators may work for government agencies, military units, research organizations, or private companies.

What are the most commonly searched types of Airborne Sensor Operator jobs in California? The most popular types of Airborne Sensor Operator jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Airborne Sensor Operator jobs in California? For Airborne Sensor Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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What cities in California are hiring for Airborne Sensor Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Airborne Sensor Operator job openings:
Airborne Sensor Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Airborne Sensor Operator job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $64,325 per year, or $30.9 per hour.

Aerial Sensor System Operator

Sharper Shape

Red Bluff, CA • On-site

$35/hr

Full-time

Medical

Re-posted 10 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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