ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Isr Sensor Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsIsr Sensor Operator JobsIsr Sensor Operator Jobs in California

Isr Sensor Operator information

See California salary details

$5

$15

$16

How much do isr sensor operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 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?

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 is an ISR Sensor Operator?

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:
Isr Sensor Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Isr Sensor Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 57% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,194 per year, or $16 per hour.

Senior Staff Engineer, Communications Systems (Dallas - BOS - SD)

Shield AI

San Diego, CA • On-site

$170K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Shield AI is a venture-backed defense-tech company with the mission of protecting service members and civilians with intelligent systems. Its products include Hivemind autonomy software, V-BAT and X-BAT aircraft, and Aechelon simulation and synthetic reality technologies. With offices and facilities across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific, Shield AI’s technology actively supports operations worldwide. For more information, visit www.shield.ai. Follow Shield AI on LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and YouTube. 

Job Description:
Shield AI is redefining autonomous aviation with cutting-edge AI and GPS/RF-denied navigation technologies. Now, we’re building a next-generation aircraft like no other—one that will push the boundaries of innovation and performance.
 
Shield AI is seeking a Communications Systems Engineer to lead the design, integration, and optimization of advanced communication systems for our next-generation autonomous aircraft.
 
This is a high-impact role where you will be responsible for mission-critical data links, encryption, and secure communications, ensuring seamless interoperability between airborne, sensor, ground, and satellite systems. You will work across sensor fusion, RF systems, SATCOM, and AI-driven data processing to deliver an aircraft capable of operating in contested environments with low latency and high reliability.
 
What you'll do:
  • Lead the development and integration of data links, encryption, and secure communication architectures into the aircraft platform.
  • Define system-level requirements and architectures for RF, SATCOM, optical, and software-defined radio (SDR) communication systems.
  • Optimize low-latency, high-bandwidth data transfer and encryption to ensure mission-critical performance.
  • Ensure seamless connectivity between the aircraft, command centers, and satellite networks, enhancing real-time data transmission and autonomy.
  • Develop AI-driven sensor fusion algorithms to enhance payload performance in high-threat environments.
  • Collaborate with avionics, software, and autonomy teams to ensure robust and secure system integration.
  • Validate performance through simulation, flight testing, and field deployments.
  • Work with DoD stakeholders and compliance teams to ensure mission readiness and adherence to cybersecurity standards
Required qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field.
  • 8+ years of experience in RF communications or mission systems integration for UAVs or military aircraft.
  • Strong expertise in RF systems, satellite communications (SATCOM), tactical data links (Link-16, CDL), and sensor integration.
  • Proficiency in software-defined radio (SDR) technologies and secure, encrypted data transmission.
  • Experience writing specifications for communications subsystems and architectures.
  • Knowledge of MIL-STD-1553, ARINC 429, and other aerospace data bus standards.
  • Experience working with classified communication protocols and DoD compliance.
  • Active Secret clearance.
  • Ability to obtain a S//SAR level security clearance desired.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Experience working with AI-enhanced signal processing and sensor fusion for ISR missions.
  • Background in low-observable (stealth) communications architectures.
  • Familiarity with electronic warfare (EW) and RF threat mitigation techniques.
  • Experience supporting DoD or intelligence community mission operations.
  • Active Top Secret clearance or eligible to achieve, as well as SCI eligible.
#LI-SM1
#LF

Full-time regular employee offer package:
Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
 
Temporary employee offer package:
Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
 
Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.
 
###
 
Shield AI is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace and is an affirmative action employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know. 

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.