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Remote Sensing Scientist Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Senior Wetlands Scientist

Boulder, CO · On-site +1

$90K - $130K/yr

We are hiring a Senior Wetland Scientist to lead that work, combining wetland science, remote sensing, and cloud-native geospatial computing to produce defensible wetland products across regional to ...

College degree must be in a relevant field such as remote sensing, Geospatial sciences, Relevant STEM field, or political science * Relevant specialized experience must be in the application of space ...

Algorithm Engineer

Westminster, CO · On-site +1

$102K - $136K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Statistics, Physics, Remote Sensing, Geospatial Sciences, or a related technical field. * 2-5 years of relevant ...

Geospatial Technician

Denver, CO · On-site +1

$24.05 - $30.06/hr

Bachelor's degree in UAV/Drone Science, Remote Sensing, Geographic Information Systems, Cartographic Science, Geodetics preferred. * FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot License required. * 1 or more years of ...

Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Systems, Software Engineering, or a related ... Knowledge of geospatial, geodesic, photogrammetric, or remote sensing technologies. * Strong ...

Senior Algorithm Engineer

Westminster, CO · On-site +1

$124K - $165K/yr

Bachelors degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Physics, Remote Sensing, Geospatial Sciences, or a related technical field. * Minimum of 5 years of relevant industry ...

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Remote Sensing Scientist information

See Colorado salary details

$87.8K

$133.6K

$179.8K

How much do remote sensing scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote sensing scientist in Colorado is $133,575.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $114,600.00 and $150,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is remote sensing and GIS a good career?

Remote sensing scientists and GIS specialists work with satellite imagery, geographic data, and spatial analysis tools to support environmental, urban planning, and defense applications. The field offers growing job opportunities, often requires proficiency in software like ArcGIS or ENVI, and benefits from relevant degrees and certifications. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in geospatial technology and data analysis.

What is the difference between Remote Sensing Scientist vs GIS Analyst?

AspectRemote Sensing ScientistGIS Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's/Master's in Remote Sensing, Geospatial Science, or related fieldsBachelor's/Master's in Geography, GIS, or related fields
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, government agencies, environmental firmsUrban planning, environmental consulting, government agencies
Industry UsageSatellite data analysis, environmental monitoringMapping, spatial data analysis, infrastructure planning
Common Search IntentRemote sensing data interpretation, satellite imagery analysisGIS mapping, spatial data management

While both roles involve geospatial data, Remote Sensing Scientists focus on analyzing satellite and aerial imagery to monitor environmental changes, whereas GIS Analysts primarily work with geographic information systems to create maps and analyze spatial data for planning and decision-making.

What does a remote sensing scientist do?

Remote sensing scientists analyze data using sensors to solve problems related to local issues like urban planning to global complications like natural resource management. As a remote sensing scientist, your responsibilities include using statistical analysis or image analysis software to analyze data acquired by aircraft, satellites, and other platforms. You monitor atmospheric changes, better understand geospatial information, and even help influence decision making regarding fair and equitable land use. Remote sensing scientists are closely involved in innumerable fields.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a remote sensing scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Remote Sensing Scientist, you need a strong background in geospatial analysis, image processing, and a relevant degree in fields such as geography, environmental science, or engineering. Familiarity with GIS software (like ArcGIS or QGIS), remote sensing tools (such as ENVI or ERDAS Imagine), and programming languages (Python, R) is typically required. Analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for interpreting data and presenting findings. These competencies are vital for accurately analyzing earth observation data, supporting decision-making, and ensuring the reliability of scientific conclusions.

What is a remote sensing scientist?

Remote Sensing Scientists are professionals who use satellite or airborne sensor data to analyze and interpret information about the Earth's surface and atmosphere. They apply techniques from physics, geography, and computer science to process and analyze remotely sensed images for applications such as environmental monitoring, agriculture, urban planning, and disaster management. Their work often involves using software to manipulate geospatial data and create maps or models that inform decision-making. Remote Sensing Scientists may work in government agencies, research institutions, or private industry, and often collaborate with other scientists and engineers.

Does remote sensing scientist pay well?

Remote sensing scientists typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, education, and location. According to industry data, median salaries range from $60,000 to over $100,000 annually, with higher pay often associated with advanced skills in GIS, image analysis, and remote sensing software. Many roles also offer benefits such as flexible schedules and opportunities for professional development.

How do you become a remote sensing scientist?

To become a remote sensing scientist, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in fields such as geography, environmental science, or remote sensing, with many roles requiring a master's or Ph.D. for advanced positions. Developing skills in GIS, image analysis, and programming languages like Python or R is important, along with experience using remote sensing tools and satellite data. Gaining practical experience through internships or research projects can also enhance job prospects.

What are some typical challenges remote sensing scientists face when working with large datasets?

Remote Sensing Scientists often work with massive amounts of satellite or aerial imagery, which can present challenges related to data storage, processing speed, and data quality management. Ensuring the accuracy of image analysis and integrating data from multiple sensor types or platforms can also be complex. To address these issues, scientists frequently rely on high-performance computing, cloud-based platforms, and advanced algorithms for data preprocessing and analysis. Collaborating closely with data engineers and software developers is common to streamline workflow and maintain data integrity.

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Remote Sensing Scientist jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Remote Sensing Scientist job openings:

Infographic showing various Remote Sensing Scientist job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 20% In-person, and 80% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $133,575 per year, or $64.2 per hour.

Hydrologic Remote Sensing Scientist

Colorado State University

Fort Collins, CO • On-site, Remote

$20/hr

Part-time

Posted 6 days ago


Colorado State University rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

485th of 618 rated colleges and universities


Job description


Position Summary
We are seeking a motivated candidate to assist postdoctoral researchers with microbiology and biochemistry research related to microbial production of fatty acids in anaerobic bioreactors. The project investigates how microbial communities and feedstock composition influence the production of medium-chain fatty acids, such as caproic and valeric acids, using molecular and analytical techniques. The ideal candidate will have at least one semester of prior research lab experience and be comfortable working with standard molecular biology techniques and analytical equipment.
Department Name
Civil and Environmental Engineering
Anticipated Start Date
August 19, 2026
Anticipated Weekly Hours
30
Required Job Qualifications
  • PhD in Civil and Environmental Engineering, Geosciences or a similar field.
  • Extensive experience working with geospatial imagery in python.
  • Experience in groundwater resources.
  • Experience estimating consumptive use of groundwater with remote sensing data.

Essential Duties
  • Evaluate large datasets of satellite imagery to estimate groundwater use in regions with little or no data.

Salary Range
$20 per hour
Required Application Documents
To apply, please upload the following applicant documents. Ensure your materials fully address the required and preferred job qualifications of the position. Please note, applicants may redact information from their application materials that identifies their age, date of birth, or dates of attendance at or graduation from an educational institution.
Resume/CV
Employee Benefits
Colorado State University is not just a workplace; it's a thriving community that's transforming lives and improving the human condition through world-class teaching, research, and service. With a robust benefits package, collaborative atmosphere, and focus on work-life balance, CSU is where you can thrive, grow, and make a lasting impact.
  • Review our detailed benefits information here.
  • Explore the additional perks of working at CSU here.
  • For the total value of CSU benefits in addition to wages, use our compensation calculator.
  • Lastly, click here for more information about why Fort Collins is consistently ranked in the top cities to live in!

Background Check Policy Statement
Colorado State University strives to provide a safe study, work, and living environment for its faculty, staff, volunteers and students. To support this environment and comply with applicable laws and regulations, CSU conducts background checks for the finalist before a final offer. The type of background check conducted varies by position and can include, but is not limited to, criminal history, sex offender registry, motor vehicle history, financial history, and/or education verification. Background checks will also be conducted when required by law or contract and when, in the discretion of the University, it is reasonable and prudent to do so.
EEO
Colorado State University (CSU) provides equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

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About Colorado State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Colorado State University is one of the nation’s top public Tier 1 Research universities and an institution on the rise. Our Ram success is driven by an ambition to be excellent in all we do combined with an unparalleled location that is one of the fastest-growing and most vibrant areas in the country. CSU is a higher education destination for working and learning for faculty, staff, and students from across Colorado, the nation, and around the globe. CSU has produced record enrollment in the past decade, built on all-time highs in student diversity and student success, experienced record fundraising and research expenditures that keep hitting new highs year-after-year, and our faculty are known nationally and internationally for their groundbreaking research. Among other recognition for research and creative scholarship, CSU was recognized in 2022 as one of 10 top research institutions in the world contributing to solving the COVID pandemic. CSU is thriving, with a five-year average enrollment of more than 33,400 students. The record-setting 2022 incoming class of 5,517 students reflects 25% from diverse populations and 24% who were first in their families to attend college. CSU graduates find success with 85% securing a job related to their career plans within six months of graduation. More than nine out of 10 Rams would select CSU again, demonstrating the quality of the campus and learning environments.

Industry

Education

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Fort Collins, CO, US

Year founded

1870

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