2

Remote Sensing Scientist Jobs in Nevada (NOW HIRING)

Meteorologist

Elko, NV · On-site +1

$40K/yr

Degree in Meteorology, Atmospheric Science, or another natural science major that includes: * At ... hours in remote sensing of the atmosphere and/or instrumentation * 6 semester hours of physics ...

... remote sensing, and geophysics. * Perform geologic mapping and create maps with a focus on ... Must possess Master of Science or Engineering in a relevant subject. A Doctorate degree in a ...

Remote Sensing Scientist information

See Nevada salary details

$85K

$129.4K

$174.1K

How much do remote sensing scientist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote sensing scientist in Nevada is $129,356.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $111,000.00 and $146,100.00 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.

What job categories do people searching Remote Sensing Scientist jobs in Nevada look for?

The top searched job categories for Remote Sensing Scientist jobs in Nevada are:

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

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

Infographic showing various Remote Sensing Scientist job openings in Nevada as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 8% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,356 per year, or $62.2 per hour.

Postdoctoral Researcher, Hydrologic Modeling

Desert Research Institute

Reno, NV • On-site, Remote

$65K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Thank you for your interest in employment with the Desert Research Institute.  We want your  application process to go smoothly and quickly.  We ask that you keep in mind the following when completing your application:

  • Once you start the application process you cannot save your work. Please ensure you have all required attachment(s) available to complete your application before you begin the process.
  • Required attachments are listed below on the posting. Your application will not be considered without the required attachments.
  • Please see the application instructions under each posting for information on submittal deadlines.

If you need assistance or have questions regarding the application process, contact Human Resources Hotline at (775) 673-7431 or recruit@dri.edu.

Job Description

The Desert Research Institute's (DRI's) Division of Hydrologic Sciences is seeking an innovative scientist with a strong background in the general areas of hydrology, hydrologic modeling, programming, and GIS. The successful candidate will participate in a collaborative research program supporting hydrologic and flood inundation model development. Candidates who have experience utilizing remote sensing data and other geospatial datasets to develop and improve hydrologic modeling systems are encouraged to apply. As part of an interdisciplinary team, the successful candidate will support development of a collaborative research program with DRI and external collaborators. In addition to research duties, the candidate will be encouraged to participate in grant writing and proposal development. This position will be based in either Reno or Las Vegas, NV and collaboration with state, regional, and national partners is anticipated.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Ph.D. from an accredited institution in hydrology, environmental science, engineering, or other relevant field with a strong interdisciplinary background;
  • Experience with hydrologic and/or flood inundation model development;
  • Experience with scientific programming and GIS software;
  • Experience working collegially in a group setting;
  • Experience publishing in peer reviewed literature

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • Experience utilizing remote sensing and other geospatial datasets;
  • Experience working collaboratively with internal and external partners;
  • Experience with developing competitive research proposals and associated budgets;
  • Interest in developing a collaborative research program developing and applying hydrologic models.

Conditions of Employment

  • Some travel expected for collaboration meetings, workshops, and conferences.

Salary/Benefits

The minimum annual starting salary for the Postdoctoral Researcher is $65,000. Final salary is commensurate with experience and education. The DRI Human Resources office performs periodic equity reviews to ensure that faculty salaries keep pace with the market.

DRI offers a benefits package that includes health, dental, vision, and life insurance, 12 paid holidays, educational benefits, the option to participate in a flexible spending account or health savings account, and a retirement plan that is beyond compare. Postdocs receive a 6.2% retirement contribution match, 15 annual leave days, and a beginning balance of 15 sick leave days. You are 100% vested in the retirement plan on your first day. Additionally, there is no state income tax in Nevada and no social security deduction. This position is eligible for relocation assistance. A summary of postdoc benefits can be found HERE. Additional information can be found at www.dri.edu/careers.

Organizational Summary

DRI is a recognized world leader in basic and applied environmental research. Committed to scientific excellence and integrity, DRI faculty, students/postdocs who work alongside them, and staff have developed scientific knowledge and innovative technologies in research projects around the globe.

Since 1959, DRI's research has advanced scientific knowledge on topics ranging from humans' impact on the environment to the environment's effect on humans. DRI's cutting-edge science and inspiring solutions support Nevada's diverse economy, provide science-based educational opportunities, and inform policymakers, business leaders, and community members. With campuses in Las Vegas and Reno, DRI serves as the non-profit research arm of the Nevada System of Higher Education.

DRI Promotion and Career Progression

DHS postdoctoral researchers hired from this posting may be eligible for promotion to regular faculty (Assistant Research Professor) upon the successful completion of their postdoc. To support the postdoc in working towards this goal, DHS will provide support for the incumbent to begin to develop their own research program as a postdoc. DRI postdocs are eligible to serve as PIs on research grants, and the incumbent will be encouraged to collaborate with colleagues across DRI and at other institutions. The incumbent will also have the opportunity to participate in both formal and informal early career mentoring programs provided by DRI Human Resources. Promotion from Postdoctoral Researcher to Assistant Research Professor can occur when the Postdoctoral Researcher demonstrates the ability to develop and sustain their own funding.

DRI faculty are supported through competitive grants and contracts with external funding agencies, and faculty therefore have access to considerable administrative support and an Institute-wide entrepreneurial approach to maintaining success in developing funding programs. DRI has been successful in using this model to create scientific breakthroughs and applied science solutions to some of the most challenging problems facing the nation and the world for over 60 years. DRI is a research-focused institution and teaching and advising of graduate students is not required but is possible through the Graduate Schools at the University of Nevada, Reno and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

Exempt

Yes

Full-Time Equivalent 

100.0%

Required Attachment(s)

Please upload the following documents in the specified section:

  • A cover letter detailing how your education and experience address the required qualifications and prepare you to contribute to DRI,
  • A current curriculum vita,
  • Contact information for three professional references who will be contacted at the appropriate phase of the recruitment process following applicant consent.

Qualified individuals are encouraged to apply immediately to receive full consideration. This posting will remain open until the position is filled, but hiring may occur at any time. Recruitment will close without notice when a hiring decision has been made.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR INTERNAL NSHE CANDIDATES

DRI employees or employees within the Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) MUST use the "Browse Jobs" report within Workday to find and apply for jobs at DRI and other NSHE Institutions. Once you log into Workday, type "Browse Jobs" in the search box which will navigate to the internal job posting site. Locate this specific job posting by typing the job requisition number, "R0153337" in the search box.

For more detailed information about DRI and DRI faculty, research projects, and publications, please visit us at www.dri.edu. For questions regarding this position or assistance with your application, please email jobs@dri.edu or call the recruiting office at 775-673-7431.

Posting Close Date

Note to Applicant

Applicants should fully describe their qualifications and experience with specific reference to each of the minimum and preferred qualifications. The search committee will use this information during the initial review of application materials.  

References will be contacted at the appropriate phase of the recruitment process based on applicant notification and permission.

Newly hired faculty and postdoctoral fellows must assure that their official transcript is submitted to the Human Resources Office within 30 calendar days from the effective date of employment.  Academic degrees must have been awarded by regionally accredited institutions.

This position may require a criminal background check to be conducted on the candidate(s) selected for hire.

As part of the hiring process, applicants for positions in the Nevada System of Higher Education may be required to demonstrate the ability to perform job-related tasks.

DRI employs only U.S. citizens and aliens authorized to work in the U.S. DRI only sponsors aliens applying for research faculty or postdoctoral fellow positions (J-1 or H-1B Visas).

All applicants hired by the Desert Research Institute are subject to E-Verify.