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Remote Radar Observer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

... Remote Sensing and the Earth Observation Innovation Lab of the Geoscience Department, Virginia ... The candidate will produce maps of land deformation from Synthetic Aperture Radar satellite imagery ...

Remote Radar Observer information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Remote Radar Observer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Remote Radar Observer, you need a solid understanding of radar systems, signal interpretation, and situational awareness, typically supported by specialized training or military experience. Familiarity with radar display software, air traffic control systems, and communication equipment is essential. Attention to detail, decisiveness, and strong communication skills help Remote Radar Observers excel in monitoring and reporting critical information. These skills ensure accurate detection, timely response, and effective coordination in high-stakes environments where safety and security are paramount.

What are some common challenges faced by Remote Radar Observers and how can they be addressed?

Remote Radar Observers often work in high-stakes environments where attention to detail and quick decision-making are crucial. A common challenge is maintaining focus during long periods of monitoring, which can lead to fatigue and potential errors. To address this, it is important to establish regular breaks, use ergonomic workstations, and engage in ongoing training to stay sharp. Additionally, effective communication with team members and supervisors helps ensure that any uncertainties or unusual radar readings are promptly clarified and addressed, improving overall safety and accuracy.

What does a Remote Radar Observer do?

A Remote Radar Observer is responsible for monitoring and interpreting data from radar systems at a distance, often for purposes such as air traffic control, weather observation, or security surveillance. They analyze radar signals to detect and track objects like aircraft, ships, or weather patterns, and report any irregularities or potential threats. This role typically requires strong attention to detail, technical proficiency with radar equipment, and the ability to work independently. Remote Radar Observers often collaborate with other personnel to ensure safety and accuracy in their observations.

What is the difference between Remote Radar Observer vs Remote Air Traffic Controller?

AspectRemote Radar ObserverRemote Air Traffic Controller
Required CredentialsRadar operation certification, technical trainingAir traffic control license, FAA certification
Work EnvironmentMonitoring radar screens remotely, data analysisManaging aircraft movements, communication with pilots
Industry UsageDefense, aviation, maritime sectorsAviation, airport management

Remote Radar Observers primarily focus on monitoring radar data and analyzing signals, often requiring specialized technical certifications. In contrast, Remote Air Traffic Controllers manage aircraft movements and communicate with pilots, requiring FAA certification. While both roles involve radar and communication technology, their responsibilities and certifications differ significantly, reflecting their distinct operational environments.

What are popular job titles related to Remote Radar Observer jobs in Virginia? For Remote Radar Observer jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Remote Radar Observer jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Remote Radar Observer jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Remote Radar Observer jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Remote Radar Observer job openings:
Postdoctoral Associate

Postdoctoral Associate

Virginia Tech

Blacksburg, VA • On-site, Remote

Other

Posted 15 hours ago


Virginia Tech rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 64 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

211th of 530 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Postdoctoral Associate

Apply now Back to search results Job no: 536160
Work type: Research Faculty
Senior management: College of Science
Department: Geosciences
Location: Blacksburg, Virginia
Categories: Research / Scientific

Job Description

The postdoctoral researcher will work at the Hydrologic Innovation and Remote Sensing and the Earth Observation Innovation Lab of the Geoscience Department, Virginia Tech. The externally funded research includes application of multiple remote sensing technologies for quantification of water resources and related hazards, including water overdraft, land subsidence, flooding, and droughts. The candidate will produce maps of land deformation from Synthetic Aperture Radar satellite imagery and analyze the data together with complementary remote-sensing and in-situ datasets.

The candidate will apply a suite of statistical and physical models for integrating observations of different accuracies, improving predictions of future hazards. The work will further include research, writing publications, writing grant proposals, attending national conferences, mentoring students, academic exchange inside VT and with national institutions from the field.

Required Qualifications

Ph.D. in Earth Sciences, Geodesy, Physics, Mathematics, Computer Sciences, Civil & Environmental Engineering, or a related field.  

PhD awarded no more than four years prior to the effective date of appointment with a minimum of one year eligibility remaining.

Strong skills in technical programming languages, e.g., Matlab, Python, or C++; in computational statistics, i.e., unsupervised and supervised ML methods, incl. deep learning. Experience with at least two of the following: remote sensing of surface and ground water resources, analysis of satellite gravimetry (GRACE) data, analysis of radar and optical remote sensing, poromechanical modeling, and elastic crustal load modeling.

Preferred Qualifications

Knowledge of Remote sensing of surface water quality, numerical modeling, GIS, leadership and advising skills, teaching, & writing experience.

 

Overtime Status

Exempt: Not eligible for overtime

Appointment Type

Restricted

Salary Information

$58,000-$62,000

Hours per week

40 hours/week - exempt position

Review Date

May 1,2026

Additional Information

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including Blacksburg, the greater Washington, D.C. area, the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke, sites in Newport News and Richmond, and numerous Extension offices and research institutes. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $650 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance.  These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.

Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Sharon Collins at sharon72@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.

Advertised: April 20, 2026
Applications close:

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About Virginia Tech

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Virginia Tech, guided by its motto "Ut Prosim" (That I May Serve), embraces a hands-on, interdisciplinary approach to educate scholars as leaders and problem-solvers. As a comprehensive land-grant institution, it enriches the quality of life in Virginia and worldwide, fostering an inclusive community focused on knowledge, discovery, and creativity. With over 280 majors, the university serves a diverse student body of more than 36,000 across undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. Virginia Tech's presence extends throughout Virginia, including campuses in Northern Virginia, Roanoke, Newport News, and Richmond, along with multiple Extension offices and research centers. As a prominent global research institution, it conducts over $500 million in research annually.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Blacksburg, VA, US

Year founded

1872

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