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Overnight Airborne Sensor Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aerial Sensor Operator

Dayton, OH · On-site +1

$22 - $25/hr

... airborne mapping missions. MUST be willing to travel on a rotating travel schedule of 21 days on ... operating procedures and practices. * Download, edit, and troubleshoot collected sensor data while ...

... (RPA). RPA Sensor Operators employ airborne sensors in manual or computer-assisted modes to ... actively acquire, track, and monitor airborne, maritime and ground objects. Operates mission ...

The candidate will provide hands-on technical support for airborne sensor and data acquisition ... operating procedures (SOPs), maintenance manuals, and technical documentation for electronic ...

Flight Test Engineer

Hagerstown, MD · On-site

$90K - $140K/yr

The successful candidate is a high-tenacity, technically-grounded Flight Test Engineer (FTE) who excels in the dynamic environment of airborne sensor testing. Operating out of a converted business ...

The successful candidate is a high-tenacity, technically-grounded Flight Test Engineer (FTE) who excels in the dynamic environment of airborne sensor testing. Operating out of a converted business ...

Flight Test Engineer

Hagerstown, MD · On-site

$90K - $140K/yr

The successful candidate is a high-tenacity, technically-grounded Flight Test Engineer (FTE) who excels in the dynamic environment of airborne sensor testing. Operating out of a converted business ...

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Overnight Airborne Sensor Operator information

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How much do overnight airborne sensor operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for overnight airborne sensor operator in the United States is $21.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by Overnight Airborne Sensor Operators, and how can they be managed?

Overnight Airborne Sensor Operators often face challenges such as maintaining alertness during extended night shifts, adapting to rapidly changing weather conditions, and ensuring accurate data collection under time-sensitive missions. To manage these challenges, it’s important to follow strict rest and nutrition routines, communicate effectively with the flight and ground teams, and stay current on operational protocols and equipment updates. Many employers also provide training on fatigue management and situational awareness to support operator performance and safety.

What is the difference between Overnight Airborne Sensor Operator vs Night Drone Sensor Technician?

AspectOvernight Airborne Sensor OperatorNight Drone Sensor Technician
CredentialsFAA drone pilot certification, sensor operation trainingFAA drone pilot certification, sensor maintenance training
Work EnvironmentAircraft, airborne missions, remote sensingGround-based, nighttime drone operations, sensor troubleshooting
Industry UsageMilitary, surveillance, environmental monitoringSecurity, infrastructure inspection, research

The Overnight Airborne Sensor Operator and Night Drone Sensor Technician both require drone operation certifications and involve sensor handling. However, the Sensor Operator primarily works in airborne environments during overnight missions, focusing on data collection from aircraft. In contrast, the Sensor Technician works on the ground, maintaining and troubleshooting sensors on drones during night operations. Both roles are vital in remote sensing industries but differ mainly in work setting and specific responsibilities.

What are Overnight Airborne Sensor Operators?

Overnight Airborne Sensor Operators are professionals responsible for operating and monitoring specialized sensors and equipment on aircraft during nighttime missions. Their primary duties include collecting aerial data, such as imagery or surveillance footage, often for purposes like mapping, environmental monitoring, or security. These operators must be skilled in using various sensor technologies and interpreting the data they collect, while adhering to strict safety and communication protocols. The role often requires working irregular hours, attention to detail, and the ability to troubleshoot technical issues in real time.

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

To thrive as an Overnight Airborne Sensor Operator, you need a solid understanding of remote sensing, aviation operations, and data acquisition, typically supported by a relevant technical degree or military experience. Familiarity with GIS software, electro-optical/infrared sensor systems, and real-time data transmission tools is commonly required. Strong attention to detail, adaptability to night shifts, and clear communication are standout soft skills in this role. These abilities are crucial to ensure accurate data collection, safe flight operations, and effective team coordination during demanding nighttime missions.
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Infographic showing various Overnight Airborne Sensor Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 91% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,993 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Remote Sensing Operations Manager

Revolution Geosystems

Huntsville, AL • Remote

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Remote Sensing Operations Manager


Job Summary

The Manager of Remote Sensing Operations plays a critical role in supporting RevolutionGeosystems data acquisition technology and fleet of sensors. This position will work closely with the Director of Aircraft Maintenance, Sensor Manager, Director of Flight Operations, and senior leadership to ensure the successful operation, maintenance, and advancement of remote sensing systems.

This position assists in the research and design implementation of new sensor platforms, and as such requires a strong technical background and previous experience with remote sensing technology.

Occasional travel is required to support field operations and client needs.


Responsibilities

  • This position oversees and demonstrates mastery in LiDAR data and photo imagery sensors, system installations/calibrations, and maintenance
  • Develop positive relationships with sensor manufacturers and work closely to ensure issues are resolved in a timely manner
  • Sensor troubleshooting and resolution implementation for deployed sensors, both in Rev Geo’s fleet of aircraft or end clients’ aircraft
  • Investigations/recommendations for new sensors/cameras and upgrades/software research and recommendations
  • Installation, mounting, and fabrication of instruments and components
  • Develop and manage a program consisting of Sensor Manager and sensor operators to carry out installations, tracking of equipment, and safe operation of Rev Geo’s sensor payloads
  • Deployment into the field for ongoing training/mentorship and project support
  • Comply with all policies and procedures developed for safety and operations in a dynamic environment
  • Work closely with pilots/survey crews in small aircraft/helicopters/vehicles while acquiring geospatial data
  • Ensure safe and secure use of company vehicles, equipment, and instrumentation


Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Strong technical background with demonstrated CAD proficiency
  • Experience solving complex problems• Excellent oral, written, and communication skills
  • Firm understanding of electrical systems and mechanical ability to perform the required functions
  • Attention to detail and self-motivated
  • Thorough understanding of aerial and terrestrial-based sensor operations and capabilities
  • Firm understanding of common sensor errors, interpolating sensor log files, and processes for sensor troubleshooting
  • Comfortable flying in small aircraft across North America and abroad


Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in science, engineering, or a related field; HS diploma and commensurate experience may be substituted for a degree
  • Direct experience with research, design, and development of remote sensing instrumentation
  • 4+ years of experience in remote sensing
  • Experience with aerial survey and instrumentation
  • Valid Driver's License


Preferred Qualifications

  • Master's degree from an engineering program or related field
  • Extensive field experience as an airborne sensor operator
  • In-depth experience using various LIDAR sensors, cameras, and other instruments