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Full Time Uav Sensor Operator Civilian Jobs (NOW HIRING)

General Atomics

Sensor Operator IV

Grand Forks, ND · On-site

$65K - $99K/yr

The sensor operator will also serve as a crewmember of the UAV, assisting the Pilot-In-Command (PIC ... civilian customers, contractors and aircrew; and detailed knowledge of computer operations and ...

Titan Echelon, LLC

MQ-9 SENSOR OPERATOR

Havelock, NC · Remote

$18.25 - $24.25/hr

Titan Echelon is seeking an MQ-9 Sensor Operator to act as a crewmember of assigned Unmanned Air Vehicle (s) (UAV). Sensor operators will be tasked with academic and in-flight instruction ...

General Atomics

Test Sensor Operator II

Adelanto, CA · On-site

$81K - $141K/yr

... flights. * Assist UAV Pilots in coordinating flight paths test point execution, and sensor ... Ability to effectively interface with all levels of employees, as well as military and civilian ...

Pae

$56.50/hr

Adhere to specific military, civilian and ICAO flight rules to include compliance with FAA ... Qualified MQ-9 Sensor Operator or previously qualified MQ-9 Sensor Operator (Form 8 within last 3 ...

Delmar Aerospace Corporation

Aerosonde Operator

Henderson, NV · On-site

$16.25 - $21.50/hr

Perform as aircraft operator, sensor operator, and maintainer / crew chief * Travel and deploy ... As a full-time employee, you will enjoy a competitive salary, comprehensive insurance package which ...

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How much do full time uav sensor operator civilian jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for full time uav sensor operator civilian in the United States is $25.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $33.41 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Full Time Uav Sensor Operator Civilian vs Full Time Uav Pilot Civilian?

AspectFull Time Uav Sensor Operator CivilianFull Time Uav Pilot Civilian
Required CertificationsRemote Pilot Certificate (Part 107), sensor operation trainingRemote Pilot Certificate (Part 107), flight operation training
Work EnvironmentGround control stations, data analysis centersAircraft operation, flight planning, in-field flying
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment agencies, survey companies, security firmsSurvey firms, media, agriculture, infrastructure inspection

Full Time Uav Sensor Operators focus on controlling sensors and analyzing data from drones, often working in ground control centers. In contrast, Full Time Uav Pilots operate the drones themselves, flying and navigating the aircraft. Both roles require similar certifications but differ in daily tasks and work environments, with sensor operators emphasizing data collection and pilots focusing on flight operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Full Time UAV Sensor Operator (Civilian), and why are they important?

To excel as a Full Time UAV Sensor Operator (Civilian), you need a solid understanding of remote sensing, aerial imagery analysis, and basic aviation principles, often supported by a relevant technical degree or military experience. Familiarity with UAV ground control stations, GIS software, and sensor payload management systems is typically required, along with certifications such as Part 107 Remote Pilot License. Attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure accurate data collection, safe UAV operations, and effective collaboration with mission teams in dynamic environments.

What are Full Time UAV Sensor Operators (Civilian)?

Full Time UAV Sensor Operators (Civilian) are professionals who operate unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, to collect sensor data for various purposes such as surveying, mapping, inspection, and surveillance. Their responsibilities include controlling the UAV, managing onboard sensors like cameras or LiDAR, ensuring data quality, and following safety protocols. These operators typically work for private companies, government agencies, or research organizations in industries like agriculture, construction, environmental monitoring, and public safety.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Full Time UAV Sensor Operator in a civilian setting?

As a Full Time UAV Sensor Operator in a civilian context, your daily tasks often include planning and conducting UAV flights, operating sensors and cameras to collect high-quality aerial data, and processing or analyzing this data for clients or internal teams. You’ll collaborate closely with pilots, data analysts, and project managers to ensure missions are completed safely and efficiently. Maintaining equipment, adhering to safety protocols, and documenting flight activities are also key parts of the role. Adaptability is important, as projects may vary from land surveying to infrastructure inspection or environmental monitoring.
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Full Time Uav Sensor Operator Civilian jobs near you
Infographic showing various Full Time Uav Sensor Operator Civilian job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,145 per year, or $25.6 per hour.
Sensor Operator IV

Sensor Operator IV

General Atomics

Grand Forks, ND • On-site

$65K - $99K/yr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

General Atomics rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 37 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 61 rated aerospace companies

Job description

Job Summary
General Atomics Systems Integration, LLC (GA-SI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a provider of military and commercial engineering services. GA-SI is a leading-edge expert in systems integration technologies, reliability improvements, and controls system design.
We currently have an exciting opportunity for an experienced MQ-9 LRE Sensor Operator to join our Aero Services Division. Employees can live in any state but must be able to deploy both CONUS and OCONUS in support of company projects. Employees in this role enjoy a Flex deployment rotation schedule of roughly 12-16 weeks working and 12 weeks off while maintaining full benefits. Flex employees work only while deployed or in a training status and receive competitive deployment compensation.
Under general direction, this position is responsible for the operation of the sensor/payload on the UAV during all phases of ground and flight operations. The sensor operator will also serve as a crewmember of the UAV, assisting the Pilot-In-Command (PIC) as directed for safe operation of the aircraft to include reading checklists, assisting in emergencies and effective crew resource management. The sensor operator will assist the PIC with mission planning, briefing, mission execution, ground and flight safety and debriefing. The SO will also provide academic and in-flight instruction.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Assists the PIC in ground and flight operations efforts including mission planning, execution, briefing, debriefing, aircrew resource management and safety.
  • Operate the payload of the UAV, on the ground and in flight, in support of customer requirements and successful execution of the mission.
  • May participate in production flight test of Company and government aircraft.
  • May participate in the preparation and presentation of continuation training of aircraft systems, mission support and deployed operations.
  • Instruct UAV student SOs in ground and flight operations and/or be qualified in multiple aircraft.
  • Assist the PIC in complying with all governing regulations including service guidance, company procedures and Federal Aviation Administration Regulations.
  • Responsible for observing all laws, regulations and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company.
  • Expected to work in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.
  • Additional Functions Other duties as assigned or required.

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.
Job Qualifications
  • Typically requires education or formal training equivalent to the completion of a High School diploma or equivalent and five or more years of experience (or 1,000+ hours) in UAV operations or aviation. Equivalent professional or military experience in UAV or aviation may be substituted in lieu of education.
  • Must demonstrate an extensive understanding of UAV and FAA principles, theories and concepts.
Must also possess:
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a customer specific security clearance;
  • Detailed understanding of UAVs, tactical reconnaissance and aviation principles;
  • Excellent analytical, interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills to accurately interface with all levels of employees and military and civilian customers, contractors and aircrew; and detailed knowledge of computer operations and applications.
  • The ability to work both independently and in a team environment is essential as is the ability to work extended hours and travel as required.
  • Ability to obtain an FAA Class II medical certificate. 500+ hours in UAV operations or aviation.
  • Ability to obtain a DOD secret clearance as well as customer specific clearances(s).
  • Ability to travel CONUS and OCONUS;
  • The ability to work both independently and in a team environment is essential as is the ability to work extended hours and travel as required.

What General Atomics employees say

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About General Atomics

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General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world's leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Diego, CA, US

Year founded

1955

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