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Airborne Sensor Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Blue Air Training

Mission Sensor Operator

Avon Park, FL · On-site

The Mission Sensor Operator (MSO) will operate Company owned sensors in support of our customer to ... airborne and ground players in those scenarios. * Must be able to run sensor, simulate a CAS or ISR ...

Woolpert

Aerial Sensor Operator

Dayton, OH

... airborne mapping missions. MUST be willing to travel on a rotating travel schedule of 21 days on ... operating procedures and practices. * Download, edit, and troubleshoot collected sensor data while ...

General Atomics

North Dakota

Grand Forks, ND · On-site

$17.75 - $22.25/hr

Typically incumbent has twelve or more years of previous sensor operator experience or experience with the operation of complex, integrated systems, preferably airborne sensors, with seven or more ...

Woolpert

Aerial Sensor Operator

Dayton, OH · On-site +1

$22 - $25/hr

... airborne mapping missions. MUST be willing to travel on a rotating travel schedule of 21 days on ... operating procedures and practices. * Download, edit, and troubleshoot collected sensor data while ...

Kalman & Company

Electronics Technician

Addison, TX · On-site

The candidate will provide hands-on technical support for airborne sensor and data acquisition ... operating procedures (SOPs), maintenance manuals, and technical documentation for electronic ...

Kalman and Company

Electronics Technician

Addison, TX · On-site

The candidate will provide hands-on technical support for airborne sensor and data acquisition ... operating procedures (SOPs), maintenance manuals, and technical documentation for electronic ...

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 ...

Kalman & Company

Electronics Technician

Addison, TX · On-site

The candidate will provide hands-on technical support for airborne sensor and data acquisition ... operating procedures (SOPs), maintenance manuals, and technical documentation for electronic ...

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How much do airborne sensor operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for airborne sensor operator in the United States is $65,689.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,000.00 and $100,500.00 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.

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Airborne Sensor Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Airborne Sensor Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 9% Full Time, and 91% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,689 per year, or $31.6 per hour.
Mission Sensor Operator

Mission Sensor Operator

Blue Air Training

Avon Park, FL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description


The Mission Sensor Operator (MSO) will operate Company owned sensors in support of our customer to enhance the clients overall training capabilities and objectives. The information below is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required for this position. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

  • Execute Contract Close Air Support Training (CCAS) while employing a thorough knowledge of Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs) in company owned tactical attack aircraft;
  • Exercise live weapons employment to include BDU-33, 2.75″ Rockets, and Strafe;
  • Assist in air navigation, Air Order of Battle (AOB) integration, planning of air to surface fires, and effective weapons control and employment tactics;
  • Perform pre-flight and in-flight mission planning activities within federal regulations;
  • Participate in post-flight debriefing with customer;
  • Responsible for radio set-up, communications procedures, and proficiency, multi spectrum sensor operation of the FLIR 380HDc, and application of 3-09.3 JCAS;
  • Operate tactical simulators in support of desired training objectives;
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Minimum Requirements

  • Must be previously qualified as a DoD WSO in fighter/attack or bomber aircraft, DoD Pilot or Combat Systems Officer (CSO) in ISR aircraft, or previously qualified as a DoD JTAC-I (Instructor) or JTAC-SEE (Evaluator).
  • Must have extensive experience building Close Air Support scenarios and emulating, via radio, airborne and ground players in those scenarios.
  • Must be able to run sensor, simulate a CAS or ISR platform and contribute to an exercise brief/debrief.
  • Knowledge, understanding, and execution of JCAS 3-09.3, JFIRE, and TTPs at the SME level.
  • Must be able to obtain/maintain security clearance.
  • Must be a U.S. Citizen.
  • Must be able to obtain a Common Access Card (CAC) and must not be barred from any government installation.
  • Must be able to stand, lift overhead, bend, crouch, climb a ladder, see to look, and ear the listen.
  • Must be fluent in the English language with excellent communication skills.
  • Must be willing to work nights, weekends, and holidays, if necessary.
  • Must provide own military flight helmet with standard oxygen and communication connections as well as standard civilian-style headset.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a FAA Class II Medical Certificate or military equivalent.