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Instructor Sensor Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Must have prior aircraft operating experience and the ability to establish and maintain ... Experience with advanced sensor systems such as NVS, LANTIRN, Helmet Mounted Cuing, and the latest ...

Must have prior aircraft operating experience and the ability to establish and maintain ... Experience with advanced sensor systems such as NVS, LANTIRN, Helmet Mounted Cuing, and the latest ...

Navy level 400 Instructor for TacMobile Watch Operations, Analysis, and Expeditionary. * Master ... TOCRON Watch Officer, TacMobile analysis subsystem operator, and TacMobile advanced airborne sensor ...

Navy level 400 Instructor for TacMobile Watch Operations, Analysis, and Expeditionary. * Master ... TOCRON Watch Officer, TacMobile analysis subsystem operator, and TacMobile advanced airborne sensor ...

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Instructor Sensor Operator information

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$14

$32

$58

How much do instructor sensor operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for instructor sensor operator in the United States is $32.54, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.48 and $34.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Instructor Sensor Operators?

Instructor Sensor Operators are experienced professionals who train and mentor other sensor operators in the use and interpretation of airborne sensor equipment—such as radar, infrared, and video systems—typically on military or surveillance aircraft. They are responsible for teaching new operators how to collect, analyze, and report sensor data accurately during missions. In addition to instruction, they may also help develop training materials, evaluate student performance, and ensure adherence to operational procedures and safety standards. Their expertise is essential for preparing effective sensor operators and enhancing mission success.

What are some common challenges faced by Instructor Sensor Operators, and how can they be addressed?

Instructor Sensor Operators often face the challenge of adapting training to students with varying levels of experience and learning styles. Balancing real-time mission demands with instructional responsibilities can also be demanding, requiring strong multitasking and communication skills. To address these challenges, effective time management, continual professional development, and fostering a collaborative team environment are essential. Leveraging simulation technologies and debriefing sessions can further enhance training effectiveness and help instructors tailor their approach to individual student needs.

What is the difference between Instructor Sensor Operator vs Sensor Technician?

AspectInstructor Sensor OperatorSensor Technician
CredentialsCertifications in sensor operation, safety, and trainingTechnical certifications in sensor maintenance and repair
Work EnvironmentTraining facilities, control rooms, and field sitesLaboratories, maintenance workshops, and field locations
Employer & IndustryMilitary, aerospace, and industrial training programsManufacturers, service providers, and industrial plants
Job FocusTeaching sensor operation and safety proceduresMaintaining, troubleshooting, and repairing sensors

While both roles involve sensors, Instructor Sensor Operators focus on training and instructing others in sensor operation, whereas Sensor Technicians specialize in maintaining and repairing sensors. The roles often overlap in industry settings but differ primarily in their core responsibilities and required certifications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Instructor Sensor Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Instructor Sensor Operator, you need expertise in sensor operations, mission planning, and surveillance techniques, typically supported by relevant military training and qualifications. Familiarity with advanced sensor systems, imagery analysis software, and classified intelligence databases is crucial. Strong communication, teaching ability, and situational awareness are key soft skills for effectively training and mentoring new operators. These skills and qualities ensure accurate mission execution, effective instruction, and operational security in high-stakes environments.
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What job categories do people searching Instructor Sensor Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Instructor Sensor Operator jobs are:
Infographic showing various Instructor Sensor Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, and 15% Part Time. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,678 per year, or $32.5 per hour.
Mission Systems Operator III - Deploy Only

Mission Systems Operator III - Deploy Only

Sierra Nevada Corporation

Shalimar, FL • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Sierra Nevada Corporation rating

8.6

Company rating: 8.6 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

17th of 60 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Are you a seasoned mission systems operator looking for a meaningful work environment that supports and protects heroes? Join our team! As a Mission Systems Operator III, you will lead advanced mission operations, ensuring the effective use of airborne sensor systems. Your expertise in sensor technologies and mission planning will drive successful outcomes in complex operational environments. You will mentor junior operators and collaborate with mission leaders to refine operational strategies.
The Mission Solutions and Technologies (MST) business area provides affordable, turn-key command/control, communications, integrated ISR, force protection and security solutions worldwide. The MST team has a long legacy of supporting the Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, commercial and international customers with years of experience in platform operations, engineering and full lifecycle management across domains - air, land, sea, space and cyber.
Responsibilities:
  • Lead and execute complex mission operations using RADAR and MX-15 systems.
  • Mentor and train junior operators on advanced sensor usage.
  • Develop and refine mission strategies and operational plans.
  • Perform in-depth data analysis and present actionable insights.
  • Ensure stringent adherence to safety and operational protocols.

Qualifications You Must Have:
  • Bachelor's degree in related field of study.
  • 4+ years of experience in a related field.
  • Relevant experience can be considered as a substitute for the required educational qualifications. In the absence of a degree, a minimum of 8 years of related experience is required.
  • Higher level relevant degree may substitute for experience.
  • Advanced understanding of sensor technologies (RADAR, MX-15).
  • Progressive experience with Crew Resource Management (CRM) and Airmanship.
  • 1000 hours of flight time knowledge of ARC-231.
  • Advanced knowledge of Small Secure Datalink (SSDL) radio functionality.
  • Thorough understanding of RADAR Theory and MX15HDi camera technology.
  • Ability to deploy for an extended amount of time to various OCONUS operating locations.
  • Ability to meet current DoD and Combatant Command requirements for deployed locations.
  • Successfully pass a pre-deployment medical assessment.
  • Must be willing and able to work extended hours, holidays, and shift schedules as required.
  • Current/ valid passport and be able to obtain a visa to travel internationally.
  • Willing to TDY for extensive amounts of time.
  • Willing to deploy OCONUS on an approximate 60/60 rotation.
  • An active Top Secret with SCI eligibility U.S. Security Clearance is required

Qualifications We Prefer:
  • Master's degree in Aerospace, Engineering, or related field.
  • Extensive experience in mission planning and execution.
  • Advanced certifications in sensor technology operation.
  • Maritime experience.
  • Background in the Aerospace and Defense Industry, the US Department of Defense, or US Military.
  • Experience with Windows 10 Falcon View or Force Map technology.
  • Prior experience as a CRM/Organizational Resource Management (ORM) instructor.

Essential Functions:
  • Ability to lift up to 25 lbs regularly.
  • Ability to be on feet for extended periods.
  • Regularly working on a computer.
  • Ability to work in potentially loud environments.
  • Ability to travel domestically and internationally as required.
  • Ability to work in an office or hybrid environment.

This posting will be open for application for a minimum of 5 days and may be extended based on business needs.
SNC offers a generous benefit package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%, life insurance, 3 weeks paid time off, tuition reimbursement, and more.
IMPORTANT NOTICE:
This position requires current/active Top Secret with SCI eligibility U.S. Security Clearance. U.S. Citizenship status is required as this position needs an active U.S. Security Clearance for employment. Non-U.S. Citizens may not be eligible to obtain a security clearance. The Department of Defense Consolidated Adjudications Facility (DoD CAF), a federal government agency, handles the adjudicative aspects of the security clearance eligibility process for industry applicants. Adjudicative factors which affect the outcome of the eligibility determination include, but are not limited to, allegiance to the U.S., foreign influence, foreign preference, criminal conduct, security violations and illegal drug use.
Learn more about the background check process for Security Clearances.
SNC is a global leader in aerospace and national security committed to moving the American Dream forward. We're known and respected for our mission and execution focus, agility, and disruptive and rapid innovation. We provide leading edge technologies and transformative solutions that support our nation's most critical security needs. If you are mission-focused, thrive in collaborative environments, and want to make our country stronger with state-of-the-art technologies that safeguard freedom, join our team!
SNC is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to an environment free of discrimination. Employment decisions are made based on merit without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran or other characteristics protected by law.

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