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MOTOR VESSEL CAPTAIN

Everett, WA

$35.90/hr

Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC) endorsed as Mate of Towing Vessels-Inland with Unlimited Radar Observer or a minimum Merchant Mariner Credential endorsed as Mate of Self-Propelled ...

Dann Marine Towing

Mate

Must possess a valid radar observer license. * Valid MMC, Coast Guard Medical Certificate & TWIC

Tomorrow.io

Radar Engineer

Golden, CO

$105K - $125K/yr

We are building and operating a weather observation constellation powered by internally developed softwaredefined radars - transforming how atmospheric data is captured and used worldwide. We're ...

Tomorrow.io

Radar Engineer

Golden, CO · On-site

$105K - $125K/yr

We are building and operating a weather observation constellation powered by internally developed software-defined radars - transforming how atmospheric data is captured and used worldwide. We're ...

Kapta Space

Director - Radar Payloads

Redmond, WA · On-site

$215K - $275K/yr

Our technology centers around a proven, scalable electronically-steered radar for sophisticated spaceborne applications such as earth observation using synthetic aperture radar (SAR) techniques, as ...

Kapta Space

Director - Radar Payloads

Redmond, WA · On-site

Our technology centers around a proven, scalable electronically-steered radar for sophisticated spaceborne applications such as earth observation using synthetic aperture radar (SAR) techniques, as ...

Kapta Space

Director - Radar Payloads

Redmond, WA · On-site

$200 - $250/hr

Our technology centers around a proven, scalable electronically-steered radar for sophisticated spaceborne applications such as earth observation using synthetic aperture radar (SAR) techniques, as ...

Kapta Space

Director - Radar Payloads

Redmond, WA

$215K - $275K/yr

Our technology centers around a proven, scalable electronically-steered radar for sophisticated spaceborne applications such as earth observation using synthetic aperture radar (SAR) techniques, as ...

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Radar Observer information

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$5

$34

$41

How much do radar observer jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for radar observer in the United States is $34.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.63 and $40.14 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a radar observer?

Radar Observers are trained professionals who operate radar equipment to monitor, detect, and track objects such as ships or aircraft. They interpret radar data to provide important information about the position, speed, and movement of these objects, often to aid in navigation or ensure safety at sea or in the air. Radar Observers play a crucial role in maritime and aviation operations, helping to prevent collisions and assist in search and rescue missions. Their expertise is essential for maintaining situational awareness in environments where visibility may be limited.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a radar observer?

To thrive as a Radar Observer, you need strong analytical abilities, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of radar systems, often supported by specialized military or maritime training and relevant certifications. Familiarity with radar consoles, tracking software, and navigation systems is typically required. Excellent communication, situational awareness, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are crucial soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are vital to ensure accurate detection, tracking, and reporting of targets for safety and operational effectiveness.

What are some common challenges radar observers face during their shifts, and how can they effectively manage them?

Radar Observers often contend with high-pressure situations, particularly when monitoring dense maritime or airspace traffic or during adverse weather conditions. Maintaining concentration for extended periods and accurately interpreting radar data are essential, as errors can have significant safety implications. Effective time management, regular communication with team members, and ongoing training in radar technology and protocols help observers handle these challenges and ensure operational safety.

What is the difference between Radar Observer vs Marine Radio Operator?

AspectRadar ObserverMarine Radio Operator
Required CertificationsRadar operation certification, safety trainingMarine radio license, communication training
Work EnvironmentMaritime, coastal, or offshore vesselsShips, ports, maritime communication centers
Industry UsageNavigation, surveillance, maritime safetyShip communication, distress signaling, coordination

Both Radar Observers and Marine Radio Operators work in maritime environments, often on ships or offshore platforms. Radar Observers focus on navigation and surveillance using radar systems, requiring specific radar operation certifications. Marine Radio Operators handle communication and distress signaling, needing a marine radio license. While their roles differ, both are essential for maritime safety and often work together onboard vessels or in maritime communication centers.

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What are popular job titles related to Radar Observer jobs?

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Radar Observer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Radar Observer job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 98% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $72,187 per year, or $34.7 per hour.

Research Analyst - Radar Climatology and Analysis of Tornadoes

Norman, OK • On-site

Jobtailor
See more jobs at Jobtailorexternal

$100 - $125/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description


  • Assist NSSL scientists in compiling, documenting, quality-controlling, and analyzing close-range research radar data of tornadoes observed at less than 15 km

  • Locate NSSL and open-source external mobile or fixed-site research radar datasets

  • Convert radar datasets to a common format

  • Perform manual or objective quality control of Doppler velocity information

  • Cross-reference radar datasets with ground-based tornado damage surveys

  • Create and maintain a database of radar-observed tornadoes

  • Develop a framework for community contribution to the tornado radar database

  • Document observing radar systems, system attributes, peak radar-observed Doppler and rotational velocity, tornado and parent storm characteristics, minimum radar range, and available radar-data links

  • Collaborate with NSSL scientists to study tornado spatiotemporal evolution and impacts on the natural and built environment

  • Publish relevant studies in reports and refereed journals

  • Present research at international conferences

  • Contribute to NSSL RAPTORs data collection and design observational strategies for close-range tornado radar observations


Requirements

  • MS Degree (PhD Preferred) in meteorology, atmospheric science, or a related field

  • 8+ years of professional and/or academic experience

  • Experience with weather radar observations, including interpretation of base and polarimetric data and quality control thereof

  • Experience with manual or objective Doppler velocity dealiasing techniques

  • Experience deploying mobile instruments, including familiarity with existing fixed and mobile weather radars (preferred), to observe severe and hazardous weather

  • Familiarity with radar-based quality control software such as the Python ARM Radar Toolkit, RadX, and Solo3

  • Experience with Python and/or other coding languages for data workflows and analysis

  • Familiarity with field project design and management

  • Established record of leading scientific research and publishing results

  • Must complete an online IT security awareness course within one week of starting work

  • Foreign national candidates are subject to export control review and require CO/COR approval prior to consideration

  • Ability to work Monday through Friday, 8 hours per day / 40 hours per week, excluding federal holidays

  • Ability to work irregular hours during active severe weather events when required for field data collection

  • Ability to travel locally and non-locally, not anticipated to exceed 5% annually

  • Remote work arrangements require advance review and approval; on-site presence may be required based on mission, field operations, collaboration, or security needs


Core Competencies

Demonstrates expertise in weather radar observations, including Doppler velocity analysis and quality control, while effectively managing field projects and contributing to scientific research publications. Proficient in utilizing radar-based quality control software and programming languages for data workflows.


Highest-signal resume keywords

  • Weather Radar Observations

  • Doppler Velocity Quality Control

  • Python Programming

  • Radar-Based Quality Control Software

  • Scientific Research Publication


ATS Optimization Keywords
Hard Skills

  • Weather Radar Interpretation

  • Doppler Velocity Dealiasing Techniques

  • Data Analysis

  • Field Project Design

  • Database Management


Soft Skills

  • Collaboration

  • Communication

  • Leadership


Certifications & Qualifications

  • MS Degree in Meteorology

  • PhD Preferred

  • IT Security Awareness Course


Industry Keywords

  • Tornado Research

  • Atmospheric Science

  • Severe Weather Observation

  • Spatiotemporal Evolution

  • Tornado Damage Surveys


Tools & Technologies

  • Python ARM Radar Toolkit

  • RadX

  • Solo3

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