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Remote Sensing Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

YO AI Labs

GIS/geospatial Expert - Remote

San Jose, CA · Remote

$80 - $100/hr

Remote Job Overview We are seeking experienced GIS / Geospatial Experts with hands-on experience in GIS, remote sensing, spatial analytics, and AI coding agents. You will apply your technical ...

YO AI Labs

GIS/geospatial Expert - Remote

Palo Alto, CA · Remote

$80 - $100/hr

Remote Job Overview We are seeking experienced GIS / Geospatial Experts with hands-on experience in GIS, remote sensing, spatial analytics, and AI coding agents. You will apply your technical ...

YO AI Labs

Dutch Bilingual Expert - Remote

Palo Alto, CA · Remote

$30 - $65/hr

Remote Job Overview We are seeking Dutch Bilingual Experts to contribute to a global language and AI training project focused on improving Dutch-language understanding and generation. In this role ...

YO AI Labs

AI Consulting Expert - Remote

Los Angeles, CA · Remote

$100 - $200/hr

Remote Job Overview We are seeking experienced AI Consulting Domain Experts to contribute their consulting expertise to an innovative project focused on improving next-generation AI systems. In this ...

YO AI Labs

AI Consulting Expert - Remote

San Jose, CA · Remote

$100 - $200/hr

Remote Job Overview We are seeking experienced AI Consulting Domain Experts to contribute their consulting expertise to an innovative project focused on improving next-generation AI systems. In this ...

YO AI Labs

AI Consulting Expert - Remote

Palo Alto, CA · Remote

$100 - $200/hr

Remote Job Overview We are seeking experienced AI Consulting Domain Experts to contribute their consulting expertise to an innovative project focused on improving next-generation AI systems. In this ...

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Remote Sensing information

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$28

$32

$36

How much do remote sensing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for remote sensing in California is $32.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30.91 and $34.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is remote sensing?

Remote sensing is the science and technology of obtaining information about objects or areas from a distance, typically using aircraft or satellites. It involves capturing data through sensors that detect reflected or emitted energy from the Earth's surface. This information is used in various fields such as environmental monitoring, agriculture, urban planning, and disaster response. Remote sensing allows for large-scale data collection without direct contact, making it invaluable for tracking changes over time.

What is remote sensing?

Remote sensing is the process of using satellite, sonar, and aerial imagery to gather information about an area. Remote sensing is often used to collect information on the spread of forest fires, track weather formations, and map the bottom of the ocean. In most time-sensitive cases, sensors are attached to a drone or airplane so they can collect data and add it to the Geospatial Information System (GIS). For businesses, remote sensing is typically used for land surveying, commercial and economic planning, early warning systems, and air traffic control. Remote sensing information is also available through public programs like Google Earth which allow researchers and companies to analyze information without having to collect it themselves.

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

To thrive as a Remote Sensing Specialist, you need expertise in geospatial analysis, image processing, and a background in environmental science, geography, or a related field. Proficiency in GIS software (such as ArcGIS or QGIS), remote sensing tools (like ENVI or ERDAS Imagine), and programming languages (like Python or R) is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills make a candidate stand out. These abilities are vital for accurately interpreting satellite or aerial data and translating insights into actionable information for decision-makers.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in remote sensing, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in remote sensing often encounter challenges such as handling and processing large volumes of complex data, staying updated with rapidly evolving technology, and ensuring data accuracy for analysis. These can be addressed by developing strong skills in data management and using advanced software tools, participating in continuous learning opportunities, and collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams such as GIS analysts, data scientists, and field researchers. Establishing clear workflows and maintaining open communication with stakeholders also helps ensure project goals are met effectively.

What is the difference between Remote Sensing vs GIS Analyst?

AspectRemote SensingGIS Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's in Geography, Environmental Science, or related; often GIS or remote sensing certificationsBachelor's in Geography, GIS, or related; GIS certifications common
Work EnvironmentField data collection, satellite image analysis, laboratory workOffice-based, map creation, spatial data analysis
Industry UsageEnvironmental monitoring, agriculture, defense, urban planningUrban planning, transportation, utilities, environmental management
Search & Comparison IntentFocus on satellite data analysis and image processingFocus on spatial data management and map creation

Remote Sensing and GIS Analyst roles share overlapping skills in spatial data and GIS tools, but Remote Sensing emphasizes satellite and aerial image analysis, while GIS Analysts focus on managing and analyzing geographic data for mapping and decision-making.

Does remote sensing pay well?

Remote sensing professionals typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, but experienced analysts or specialists with skills in GIS, satellite imagery, and data analysis can earn higher wages, especially in industries like defense, environmental management, and geospatial technology.

What can I do with remote sensing?

Remote sensing professionals analyze satellite or aerial imagery to monitor environmental changes, manage natural resources, and support urban planning. They use tools like GIS software and may require skills in data analysis, image processing, and knowledge of sensor technologies.

What careers use remote sensing?

Remote sensing is used in careers such as environmental scientists, GIS analysts, cartographers, and remote sensing specialists. These roles involve analyzing satellite or aerial imagery to monitor land use, climate change, natural resources, and disaster management, often requiring skills in GIS software and remote sensing tools like LiDAR and multispectral imaging.
More about Remote Sensing jobs

What are popular job titles related to Remote Sensing jobs in California?

For Remote Sensing jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Remote Sensing jobs?

Cities in California with the most Remote Sensing job openings:

Remote Sensing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Remote Sensing job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,279 per year, or $32.8 per hour.

Senior Software Engineer (Remote Sensing)

Umbra

Santa Barbara, CA • On-site, Remote

$136K - $179K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Umbra is an American space technology company delivering advanced systems, from sensors to spacecraft, that empower customers worldwide with unmatched access to critical information from space. Our mission is simple and ambitious: redefine space-for people, systems, and missions in every domain. Umbra's ecosystem operates through three business units: Remote Sensing (the data), Space Systems (the components), and Mission Solutions (the platforms).Together, our teams develop capabilities that deliver persistent access, resilient performance, and mission-ready solutions, advancing U.S. space leadership while keeping the world safe and informed.
About the Team
Remote Sensing - The Data
Remote Sensing is where Umbra got its start, and our agile Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) constellation remains the most capable on the market. We transform satellite data into real-world, actionable insights that strengthen U.S. national security and intelligence, support disaster response, and advance scientific discovery. Our team delivers data at scale with unmatched quality, persistence, and the speed and responsiveness our partners demand.
If you want to work on cutting-edge space technology that's redefining what's possible in remote sensing, you belong here at Umbra.
About the JobWe are seeking a Senior Ground Software Engineer to join our Remote Sensing software organization and help expand our capacity to design, build, and maintain the critical systems that support our autonomous satellite operations. This engineer will contribute to software systems across our mission planning, scheduling, command, control, and communications domains, partnering with product owners and multidisciplinary engineering teams to develop and operate the services that enable spacecraft operations at scale.
In this role, you will take ownership of key backend services alongside our existing engineers, helping distribute operational responsibility, improve system resiliency, and accelerate delivery across multiple mission-critical product areas.
This position is based on-site in either our Santa Barbara/Goleta, CA office, Arlington, VA office, or Reston, VA office (coming soon).
Key Responsibilities
  • Design, develop, and maintain reliable, scalable, and secure software systems that support satellite mission planning, scheduling, command, control, and communications.
  • Take shared ownership of critical production services, reducing single-threaded dependencies and improving operational resilience.
  • Contribute to architectural decisions and influence system design with a focus on reliability, scalability, maintainability, and security.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including operations, platform engineering, and flight software, to deliver end-to-end solutions.
  • Participate in on-call rotations and ensure system uptime, performance, and operational excellence.
  • Develop and maintain APIs, backend services, and data workflows that support autonomous satellite operations.
  • Continuously improve observability, testing, deployment, and operational processes.

Requirements
Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a related field.
  • 5-8+ years of professional experience developing highly available backend services, preferably using Python.
  • 3+ years of experience designing, developing, and testing commercial RESTful APIs.
  • Experience developing software for aerospace ground systems, satellite operations, mission operations, command and control systems, or similarly complex operational environments.
  • Demonstrated understanding of software architecture, event-driven microservices, interface design, and automated testing practices.
  • 2+ years of professional experience developing automated build and test pipelines within a CI/CD environment.
  • Experience building database-backed applications and working with relational databases, preferably PostgreSQL.
  • Experience developing and deploying Kubernetes/Docker containerized services.
  • Experience with AWS or other cloud computing platforms.
  • Solid understanding of application security, access control, authentication, and identity management.
  • Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively across engineering disciplines.

Desired Qualifications
  • Experience building software to automate space operations.
  • Experience designing and implementing scheduling systems, optimization algorithms, or automated planning systems.
  • Strong understanding of infrastructure monitoring, observability, and operational best practices.
  • Experience designing and documenting APIs using Swagger/OpenAPI.
  • Track record of improving team effectiveness through mentorship, documentation, or knowledge sharing.

Benefits
  • Flexible Time Off, Sick, Family & Medical Leave
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, LTD, STD (employer funded)
  • Vol Life, Critical Illness, Accidental, Hospital Indemnity, Pet Insurance (employee funded)
  • 401k with 3% non-elective company contribution
  • Stock Options
  • Free parking
  • Free lunch in office daily

Umbra is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate in hiring on the basis of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religious creed, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.
Employment Eligibility Verification
In compliance with federal laws, all hired persons will be required to verify their identity and eligibility to work in the United States by completing the required Employment Eligibility Verification Form (I-9 Form) upon hire.
ITAR/EAR Requirements
This position may include access to technology and/or data that is subject to U.S. export controls pursuant to ITAR and EAR. To comply with federal export controls, all persons hired must be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national, U.S. lawful permanent resident, refugee or asylee as defined by 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3), or must otherwise be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State and/or U.S. Department of Commerce as applicable.
Pay Transparency
This job posting may cover multiple career levels. To ensure greater transparency, we provide base salary ranges for all roles, regardless of location. Our standard pay ranges are based on the role's function and level, benchmarked against similar growth-stage companies. Compensation may vary based on geographical location, as certain regions may have different cost-of-living factors. The final offer will also be influenced by the candidate's skills, responsibilities, and relevant experience.
Compensation Range
The Compensation Range for this role is $155,000 - $185,000 DOE.

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