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Remote Sensing Scientist Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Canopy

Senior Machine Learning Engineer

Detroit, MI · On-site +1

$126K - $180K/yr

Stay ahead of industry advancements in machine learning, AI sensing, and signal processing ... Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, or a related field. * Expertise ...

All JobsSensing Scientist JobsRemote Sensing Scientist JobsRemote Sensing Scientist Jobs in Michigan

Remote Sensing Scientist information

See Michigan salary details

$72.8K

$110.7K

$149K

How much do remote sensing scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote sensing scientist in Michigan is $110,720.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $95,000.00 and $125,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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 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.

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 much do remote sensing scientists earn?

Remote sensing scientists typically earn a median annual salary of around $70,000 to $100,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Advanced skills in GIS, image analysis, and programming can lead to higher compensation, especially in research or industry roles.
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What cities in Michigan are hiring for Remote Sensing Scientist jobs?

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

Remote Sensing Scientist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Remote Sensing Scientist job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 50% In-person, and 50% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $110,720 per year, or $53.2 per hour.

Postdoctoral Fellow to lead a lab demonstration of a highly-multiplexed heterodyne interferometer fo

University of Michigan

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site, Remote

$47K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 24 days ago

University Of Michigan rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 145 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

162nd of 619 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Description
Professors John Monnier (Astronomy) and Steven Cundiff (Physics) are currently recruiting for a postdoctoral research fellow position. This is a one-year appointment to start in late Fall 2025, with the possibility of renewal, contingent upon funding and satisfactory performance.
The Research Fellow will lead a lab demonstration of a highly-multiplexed heterodyne interferometer for remote-sensing/astronomical applications. The U. Michigan contribution is a key part of a larger interdisciplinary, multi-institution grant "Precision Radiometry for Incoherent Spectral Measurements (PRISM)" funded by the AFOSR (PI: Burghoff, UT-Austin, with partners at UCB, UCF, CU, USC, & Yale).
Responsibilities
  • Design and execute experiments involving optical combs, spectrometers, and detector arrays for interferometry at optical/NIR wavelengths.
  • Collaborate with partners at other institutions on hardware and fieldwork, including travel to carry-out sky demonstrations.
  • Publish results in peer-reviewed journals and present at scientific conferences.

Qualifications
Required Qualifications
Proof of PhD in an area of experimental physics or engineering is required before start date.
Desired Qualifications
  • Proficiency in laboratory work, especially with relevant technologies.
  • Proven ability to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and a track record of peer-reviewed publications.
  • Familiarity with optical/near-infrared interferometry, spectroscopy, high-resolution imaging, and/or remote-sensing techniques.

Application Instructions
This role offers lab-based work, requiring on-site presence at the University of Michigan.
U. Michigan conducts background checks (in compliance with Fair Credit Reporting Act) on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer and may use a third-party administrator.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
The University of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities."

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About University of Michigan

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The University of Michigan (U-M), based in Ann Arbor, MI, US, is one of America's most esteemed institutions in higher education. Established in 1817, it presides in the industry of education and research, providing a range of services including undergraduate, graduate, and professional education programs. Complementing this is an extensive research activity that has significantly contributed to various fields, from healthcare to engineering, humanities to sports. Upholding its mission "to serve the people of Michigan and the world through preeminence in creating, communicating, preserving and applying knowledge, art, and academic values", U-M consistently ranks among the top universities globally, a testament to its tradition of excellence in learning and research, and a deep commitment to innovation and discovery.

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Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Ann Arbor, MI, US

Year founded

1817

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