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Lidar Operator Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

GeoSearch

Lidar Quality Analyst

Fairfax, VA · Remote

$69K - $88K/yr

... operating procedures , checklists, and report/metadata templates * Training junior staff in QA/QC ... ASPRS Positional accuracy Standards for Digital Geospatial Data (2014), USGS Lidar Base ...

Dewberry

Senior Geospatial Analyst

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$87K - $115K/yr

NGA certifications, GISP Certification, ASPRS certifications in Lidar or other Remote Sensing technologies * Experience as an Aerial Sensor Operator * Current and valid security clearance Required ...

Dewberry

Senior Geospatial Analyst

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$91K - $118K/yr

NGA certifications, GISP Certification, ASPRS certifications in Lidar or other Remote Sensing technologies * Experience as an Aerial Sensor Operator * Current and valid security clearance Required ...

Lynker Corporation

Uncrewed Vessel Operator

Leesburg, VA

$45K - $90K/yr

Experience with operating satellite, cellular, and RF telemetry systems Experience with maritime situational awareness using AIS,FLIR, ECDIS, LiDAR, and RADAR. Experience with data acquisition using ...

Lynker Corporation

Uncrewed Vessel Operator

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$45K - $90K/yr

The Uncrewed Systems Operator must have experience operating hydrographic survey or oceanographic ... LiDAR, and RADAR. • Experience with data acquisition using Multibeam Sonars, Side Scan Sonars ...

Actalent

Electrical Engineer

Herndon, VA

$60 - $80/hr

Background working with lidar systems or related electro-optical sensing technologies. * Familiarity with advanced fiber and bulk solid-state laser systems. * Comfort operating in a research and ...

NCSL International

Sensor Integration Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$110 - $160/hr

LiDAR Technologies * Acoustic Detection Systems * Video Management Systems (VMS) * Command and Control (C2) Systems * Common Operating Picture (COP) Platforms * Multi-Sensor Fusion * Systems ...

New

Leidos

Senior Modeling Engineer

Reston, VA

$108K - $149K/yr

Execute field data collection using terrestrial, aerial, and mobile LiDAR systems, handheld ... sanitization standard operating procedures. * Understanding of finite element analysis or ...

Leidos

Senior Modeling Engineer

Reston, VA · On-site

$108K - $149K/yr

Execute field data collection using terrestrial, aerial, and mobile LiDAR systems, handheld ... sanitization standard operating procedures. * Understanding of finite element analysis or ...

NSS

Solid-State Laser Scientist / Lead

Herndon, VA

Guide LIDAR transmitter laser development for airborne and space platforms * Perform system-level ... Comfortable operating in high-visibility, mission-critical programs Why This Role Matters This role ...

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Lidar Operator information

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How much do lidar operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for lidar operator in Washington is $26.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.43 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a Lidar Operator?

To become a Lidar Operator, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with technical training or certification in lidar technology, surveying, or GIS. Experience with data collection, processing software, and operating lidar equipment is important, and some roles may require knowledge of GPS and mapping tools. On-the-job training is common, and safety procedures must be followed in field environments.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a lidar operator?

To thrive as a Lidar Operator, you need strong spatial awareness, attention to detail, and experience with surveying or geospatial data collection, typically supported by relevant training or certifications in Lidar technology or geomatics. Proficiency with Lidar hardware, GPS systems, 3D mapping software, and data processing tools such as TerraScan or Global Mapper is essential. Being dependable, having good communication skills, and working well both independently and within field teams will help you excel in project-based environments. These abilities are vital for ensuring accurate data collection, safe field operations, and effective collaboration on complex mapping or surveying projects.

What does a lidar operator do?

A typical day for a Lidar Operator often includes preparing equipment, conducting field surveys—sometimes in challenging weather or terrain—and capturing high-precision 3D data. After fieldwork, you may spend time processing and analyzing the collected data on a computer, ensuring its accuracy and completeness. Collaboration with survey managers, GIS teams, and project coordinators is common to integrate Lidar data into larger mapping or engineering efforts. The work strikes a balance between hands-on field activities and technical data analysis, offering variety and opportunities for skill development.

What is a lidar operator?

A Lidar Operator is responsible for using Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) technology to collect high-resolution spatial data for mapping and surveying purposes. They operate specialized equipment mounted on vehicles, drones, or aircraft to scan terrain, structures, and vegetation. Their duties include setting up and calibrating sensors, ensuring data accuracy, processing raw LiDAR data, and troubleshooting technical issues. Lidar Operators work in industries like geospatial mapping, construction, forestry, and infrastructure development. Strong technical skills, attention to detail, and familiarity with GIS software are essential for this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Lidar Operator jobs in Washington? The most popular types of Lidar Operator jobs in Washington are:
What are popular job titles related to Lidar Operator jobs in Washington? For Lidar Operator jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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Lidar Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lidar Operator job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,286 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Lidar Quality Analyst

GeoSearch

Fairfax, VA • Remote

$69K - $88K/yr

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Our client is currently seeking a Quality Analyst to support operations within our Geospatial Technology Services department. Typical responsibilities include detailed analysis and review of topographic lidar data, topobathymetric data, IfSAR, vector data (2D and 3D), Digital Elevation Models (DEMs), Digital Surface Models (DSMs), Orthoimagery, Shoreline Mapping, elevation derived hydrography (EDH) data for 3DHP, and terrains for state, federal, and private clients across the US. This is an excellent career opportunity for an individual to join a team of dedicated professionals while working in a multidisciplinary consulting and engineering firm. This position offers great potential for professional growth and the opportunity to work with and apply the latest geospatial technology.


The projected range for this position is $69,000-$88,000 annually. Depending upon other factors, i.e., skills, experience, location, market conditions, the range may vary slightly.


Responsibilities

  • QA/QC of elevation data, imagery, other GIS data, and associated data products
  • Providing feedback on all stages of production
  • Creation and analysis of derivative data layers
  • Supporting and leading process improvements
  • Report and metadata creation and review
  • Supporting the creation, modification, and maintenance of internal documentation, e.g. standard operating procedures , checklists, and report/metadata templates
  • Training junior staff in QA/QC procedures and production workflows, including development and planning of training
  • Leading quality review meetings and helping prioritize tasks and projects
  • Representing quality team during client meetings
  • Assisting project managers with scope, budget, and resource estimations related to QA/QC activities
  • Understanding client expectations and helping to translate those expectations to analysts when/if data modifications are required
  • Assign tasks and coordinate with analysts, technicians, or administrative staff
  • Compose and prepare technical writing beyond existing templates


Required Skills & Required Experience

  • Bachelor's degree in Geography, GIS, or related field
  • 5+ years of experience in the GIS/Remote Sensing Field
  • Creative problem solving skills
  • In-depth knowledge of Esri software, including ArcGIS Pro
  • Experience with digital elevation data, imagery, and other geospatial products
  • Experience providing quality assurance and quality control of geospatial products
  • Working knowledge of TerraScan
  • Proficiency with other geospatial software suites such as Global Mapper or LP360
  • Experience with national elevation programs, such as USGS 3DEP and/or USGS 3DHP
  • Experience with industry standards and specifications, e.g. ASPRS Positional accuracy Standards for Digital Geospatial Data (2014), USGS Lidar Base Specifications
  • Proficiency in standard office computer applications, including MS Office (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint), Adobe Acrobat, etc.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills

Desired Experience

  • Experience creating scripts/models/macros in multiple GIS/remote sensing platforms
  • Bathymetric data processing and/or verification experience
  • Familiarity with CMMI Frameworks
  • Familiarity with Section 508 compliance
  • Familiarity with ISO 9001:2015 (Quality Management Systems)