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Radar Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

All radars are operated from the Consolidated Operations Control Center in Chesapeake, Virginia. Each radar is capable of covering over four million square miles across the Caribbean, Eastern Pacific ...

Radar Operator-3

Chesapeake, VA · On-site

$28.91/hr

All radars are operated from the Consolidated Operations Control Center in Chesapeake, Virginia. Each radar is capable of covering over four million square miles across the Caribbean, Eastern Pacific ...

Uncrewed Vessel Operator

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$45K - $90K/yr

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

Payload Operator

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$92K - $166K/yr

Leidos is looking for a Payload Operator who currently possesses a TS/SCI and has the ability to obtain Polygraph clearance. Candidates who do not currently possess a TS/SCI clearance will not be ...

Payload Operator

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$92K - $166K/yr

Leidos is looking for a Payload Operator who currently possesses a TS/SCI and has the ability to obtain Polygraph clearance. Candidates who do not currently possess a TS/SCI clearance will not be ...

Who We Are Johns Manville is a leading manufacturer and marketer of premium-quality insulation and commercial roofing, along with glass fibers and nonwovens for commercial, industrial and residential ...

Who We Are Johns Manville is a leading manufacturer and marketer of premium-quality insulation and commercial roofing, along with glass fibers and nonwovens for commercial, industrial and residential ...

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Radar Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$11

$24

$35

How much do radar operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for radar operator in Virginia is $24.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.24 and $29.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Radar Operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Radar Operator, you need keen attention to detail, spatial awareness, and a solid understanding of radar principles, often supported by technical training or military experience. Familiarity with radar display consoles, tracking software, and communications equipment is typically required, with additional certifications such as a security clearance often beneficial. Strong situational awareness, calmness under pressure, and effective teamwork and communication skills set standout candidates apart. These competencies are crucial because Radar Operators must reliably detect, track, and report targets or hazards to ensure safety and mission success in high-stakes environments.

What are the typical work environments and schedules for Radar Operators?

Radar Operators commonly work in control rooms, monitoring stations, or command centers as part of aviation, maritime, defense, or weather monitoring teams. Work schedules may include rotating shifts, nights, weekends, and holidays, especially in organizations that require 24/7 surveillance or monitoring. Collaborative work with other operators, supervisors, and field personnel is frequent, as clear communication is vital to share findings and respond to potential threats or anomalies quickly. Depending on the employer, there may also be opportunities for specialized training or advancement into supervisory or technical roles.

What is a Radar Operator job?

A Radar Operator is responsible for monitoring and interpreting radar systems to track aircraft, ships, weather patterns, or other moving objects. They analyze radar data to detect potential threats, navigate vehicles, or assist with air traffic control. Radar Operators typically work in military, aviation, or maritime industries, ensuring safety and efficient coordination. They must be skilled in operating radar equipment, identifying anomalies, and responding quickly to changing situations. Training and technical knowledge are essential for success in this role.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

Radar operators typically do not earn $500,000 annually; such high salaries are usually associated with executive roles, specialized medical professionals, or successful entrepreneurs. High-paying jobs often require advanced skills, extensive experience, or ownership of a business. Most radar operators earn a median salary well below this threshold, with top earners in related fields earning significantly less than $500,000 per year.

What jobs pay 10,000 a month without a degree?

Radar operators typically do not earn $10,000 a month without specialized training or experience. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree often include roles such as commercial pilots, real estate brokers, or sales managers, which rely on skills, certifications, or performance rather than formal education. These positions may require licensing, extensive experience, or specific technical knowledge.

What jobs pay $2000 a day?

Radar operators typically do not earn $2000 a day; such high daily earnings are more common in specialized fields like executive consulting, high-level sales, or certain medical professions. Most radar operators earn a salary aligned with government or military pay scales, which are generally lower. Achieving $2000 daily income usually requires advanced skills, certifications, or roles with significant responsibility and experience.

How to become a radar operator?

To become a radar operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by specialized training in radar systems and navigation. Many positions require security clearances and technical skills in operating radar equipment, often gained through military training or technical programs. Certification or experience with specific radar systems can enhance job prospects.
What job categories do people searching Radar Operator jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Radar Operator jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Radar Operator jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Radar Operator job openings:
Infographic showing various Radar Operator job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $50,432 per year, or $24.2 per hour.
Radar Operator-3

$28.91/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Raytheon rating

9.1

Company rating: 9.1 out of 10

Based on 81 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

3rd of 518 rated manufacturers


Job description

Date Posted:

2026-06-01

Country:

United States of America

Location:

US-VA-CHESAPEAKE-002-CUST ~ 2 Relay Rd ~ BLDG 344 (External Site)

Position Role Type:

Onsite

U.S. Citizen, U.S. Person, or Immigration Status Requirements:

Active and transferable U.S. government issued security clearance is required prior to start date.​ U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance​

Security Clearance Type:

DoD Clearance: Secret

Security Clearance Status:

Active and existing security clearance required on day 1

At Raytheon, the foundation of everything we do is rooted in our values and a higher calling to help our nation and allies defend freedoms and deter aggression. We bring the strength of more than 100 years of experience and renowned engineering expertise to meet the needs of today’s mission and stay ahead of tomorrow’s threat. Our team solves tough, meaningful problems that create a safer, more secure world.

For over 30 years, Raytheon operates and maintains the Navy’s three Relocatable Over The Horizon Radars (ROTHR). Each radar consists of a remote transmit and receive site. All radars are operated from the Consolidated Operations Control Center in Chesapeake, Virginia. Each radar is capable of covering over four million square miles across the Caribbean, Eastern Pacific, Central, and South America with all systems manned and operated 24 hours a day. The ROTHR mission is primarily to track and report the movement of aircraft and ships carrying illicit narcotics from South America toward Central America and the United States. This is a service contract position.

The non-negotiable US Gov't contract rate for this position is $28.91 with $5.75 for Health and Welfare.

What You Will Do

•     Perform the operation of ROTHR RADAR system, primarily PC-based platforms to monitor and track surface and air contacts.

•     Perform ionosphere propagation assessment by manually modeling the ionosphere's layers using PC-based resources.

•     Perform frequency selection by interpreting the ionospheric model and assigning the proper RADAR parameters for detection and tracking capability of the designated target type.

•     Monitor and modify RADAR resources as necessary to meet tasking parameters. Monitor and assist ROTHR tracking software in validating and reporting aircraft and surface contacts within the RADAR coverage area. Interpret RADAR returns to identify take-offs and landings of aircraft.

•     Monitor and copy external communications information relayed over HF radio links. Interact with Agile Client terminal for pertinent track data.

•     Receive technical guidance and tasking from supervisor or higher-level operator.

Qualifications You Must Have

•     Typically requires HS diploma (or equivalent, e.g. G.E.D in the US) or vocational/technical education in related discipline with a minimum of 4 years of relevant experience

•     Three years RADAR Operations / technical school.

•     Experience with Windows 10.

•     Active and transferable U.S. government issued DoD Secret security clearance is required prior to start date. U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are eligible for a security clearance and to obtain any required Export Authorization.

Qualifications We Prefer

•     Four years minimum radar experience.

•     Previous experience monitoring radar tracking displays and HF radio transmissions.

•     Previous air defense, air controller, or OS experience.

What We Offer

  • Our values drive our actions, behaviors, and performance with a vision for a safer, more connected world. At RTX we value: Trust, Respect, Accountability, Collaboration, and Innovation.
  • No relocation is provided for this position.

Learn More and Apply Now!

Please consider the following role type as you apply for this role: Onsite.

This position requires a security clearance. DCSA Consolidated Adjudication Services (DCSA CAS), an agency of the Department of Defense, handles and adjudicates the security clearance process. More information about Security Clearances can be found on the US Department of State government website here: https://www.state.gov/m/ds/clearances/c10978.htm

This position is located in Chesapeake, Virginia at Naval Support Activity Hampton Roads Northwest Annex.

Effective applicant selected will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to the military installation.

As part of our commitment to maintaining a secure hiring process, candidates may be asked to attend select steps of the interview process in-person at one of our office locations, regardless of whether the role is designated as on-site, hybrid or remote.

Hired applicants may be eligible for benefits, including but not limited to, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, flexible work schedules, employee assistance program, Employee Scholar Program, parental leave, paid time off, and holidays. Specific benefits are dependent upon the specific business unit as well as whether or not the position is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement.Hired applicants may be eligible for annual short-term and/or long-term incentive compensation programs depending on the level of the position and whether or not it is covered by a collective-bargaining agreement. Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and are dependent upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, individual performance, business unit performance, and/or the company’s performance.This role is a U.S.-based role. If the successful candidate resides in a U.S. territory, the appropriate pay structure and benefits will apply.RTX anticipates the application window closing approximately 40 days from the date the notice was posted. However, factors such as candidate flow and business necessity may require RTX to shorten or extend the application window.

RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. RTX provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act.

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