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Isr Sensor Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

MQ-9 Sensor Operator

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$78.94 - $83.73/hr

Provide academic instruction to include basic sensor operation, basic ISR and Launch & Recovery ... operating procedures. - Conduct initial, qualification, upgrade, and continuation training for ...

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 ...

$93K - $156K/yr

... sensor integrations within government and contractor-supported test and development facilities ... ISR Systems applications and databases * C4I supporting services, operating systems, and network ...

$133K - $222K/yr

Work closely with Government engineers, operators, and third-party vendors * Support coordination ... software, network, and sensor-based systems * Familiarity with surveillance, ISR ...

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Isr Sensor Operator information

See California salary details

$5

$15

$16

How much do isr sensor operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for isr sensor operator in California is $15.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.48 and $16.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as an ISR Sensor Operator, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and typically a background in military or intelligence operations, often supported by relevant security clearances. Familiarity with ISR platforms, sensor systems, imagery exploitation tools, and geospatial analysis software is essential. Excellent communication, teamwork, and decision-making abilities help you collaborate effectively and respond quickly to dynamic situations. These skills and qualifications are crucial for providing accurate, timely intelligence that supports mission success and operational safety.

What is the difference between Isr Sensor Operator vs Radar Sensor Operator?

AspectIsr Sensor OperatorRadar Sensor Operator
Required CertificationsMilitary or specialized ISR certifications, security clearancesMilitary or civilian radar operation certifications
Work EnvironmentMilitary bases, surveillance sites, intelligence operationsAirports, military bases, surveillance facilities
Industry UsageDefense, intelligence, surveillanceDefense, aviation, maritime security

Both roles involve operating sensor equipment, but Isr Sensor Operators focus on intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions, often requiring security clearances and specialized training. Radar Sensor Operators primarily operate radar systems for detection and tracking in military or civilian contexts. While their work environments and certifications overlap, their specific functions and mission focus differ.

What are some typical challenges faced by ISR Sensor Operators in their daily operations?

ISR Sensor Operators often face challenges such as managing high workloads during mission-critical periods, maintaining focus during long surveillance shifts, and adapting quickly to rapidly changing mission objectives. They must also coordinate closely with pilots and intelligence analysts to ensure accurate data collection and timely reporting. Effective communication, attention to detail, and the ability to operate sophisticated sensor equipment under pressure are essential to succeed in this role.

What are ISR Sensor Operators?

ISR Sensor Operators are specialized professionals responsible for operating intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) sensors on aircraft, drones, or other platforms. They collect, analyze, and interpret data to support military and intelligence missions, helping identify targets, monitor activities, and gather crucial information. These operators work closely with mission teams to provide real-time situational awareness and actionable intelligence. Their role is critical in ensuring mission success and the safety of personnel.
What are popular job titles related to Isr Sensor Operator jobs in California? For Isr Sensor Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Isr Sensor Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Isr Sensor Operator jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Isr Sensor Operator job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 47% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 42% Nights. Highlights an 88% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,194 per year, or $16 per hour.

MQ-9 Sensor Operator

System Dynamics Intl

Palmdale, CA • On-site

$78.94 - $83.73/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

MQ-9 Sensor Operator

JOB SUMMARY

SDI is seeking MQ-9 LRE & MCE Qualified Instructor Sensor Operators to provide UAS Aircrew Support Services. These positions will be in Gray Butte, CA. 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 documentation for ground and flight test events and provide feedback to Flight Test Engineer (FTE) as required.
-Conduct operations and procedures in accordance with test plans. Assist pilot through all phases of employment to include test planning, flight operations, debriefings, and post-test analysis and reporting. Continually monitor aircraft and weapons systems status to ensure lethal and non-lethal application of airpower (if applicable). - Conduct tests and evaluate capabilities of new equipment and propriety of new procedures in accordance with established test cards, published flight manuals, checklists, technical orders, instructions, and other approved manuals as provided by the manufacturer.
- Attend and participate in Test Plan Working Groups (TPWGs), Technical Interchange Meetings (TIMs), Test Kickoff Meetings, Test Readiness Reviews (TRRs), Safety Review Boards (SRBs), and Technical Review Boards (TRBs).
- Conduct flight test missions IAW test cards of various onboard systems including, but not limited to: synthetic aperture radar, electro-optical, low-light, and infrared full-motion video imagery, and other active or passive acquisition and tracking systems.
Pre-flight Planning:
-Perform pre-flight and in-flight mission planning activities. Must understand tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) for planned test mission. Operate mission planning ancillary equipment to initialize information for download to airborne mission systems. Participate in post-flight debriefing to establish mission accomplishments and potential procedural development.
In-Flight/Post-Flight:
Assist in air navigation, fire control planning, and determining effective weapons control and delivery tactics to achieve overall mission objectives (as required).
- Receive and process target briefs for weapons delivery.
- Use laser target marking systems to provide target identification and illumination for onboard weapons delivery and in support of other combat assets.
- Conduct terminal weapons guidance.
- Submit T.O. change requests and Deficiency Reports (DR) identified during ground and flight test operations
Certification and Currency:
Ensure sensor operators follow procedures to obtain and maintain an Aircrew Qualification Certification.
- Research and study target imagery, friendly and enemy orders of battle, and offensive and defensive capabilities from various sources. Assemble target information, locate forces, and determine hostile intentions and possible tactics.
- Accurately track and accomplish currency requirements, including annual evaluations/training events, go/no-go Flight Crew Information File items, and safety briefings.
- Knowledgeable of aviation flight operations as well as instructional procedures and techniques.
- Ensures compliance with service guidance, company policy and procedures and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) 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.
Training:
Provide academic instruction to include basic sensor operation, basic ISR and Launch & Recovery operations.
- Provide support to develop and maintain aircrew training syllabus and training program as well as ground and flight operating procedures.
- Conduct initial, qualification, upgrade, and continuation training for mission crew members.
- Perform training, planning, standardization and evaluation, and other staff duty functions.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES


Must have active TS/SCI security clearance
Education Requirements: Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Mathematics, or Physics; or Master’s Degree in any engineering field; or BS Degree in a physical science – receiving a minimum GPA of 3.0
Current and qualified MQ-9 Instructor Sensor Operator requirements as follows:

- Sensor Operator III: MCE + LRE + INST/MAQ
- Sensor Operator IV: MCE + LRE + INST + SEFE/MAQ
- Sensor Operator IV: MCE + LRE + INST + SEFE + MAQ

Must possess/obtain FAA Class II Medical Certificate
Proficiency in the use of Microsoft Office products


OTHER INFORMATION
Travel may be required to other sites to support the contract effort.