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Remote Sensing Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

We are looking for a spatial thinker with a passion for remote sensing analysis and visual communication to help us leverage Planet's platform and imagery products for external distribution. You will ...

Staff Optical Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site +1

$166K - $223K/yr

About the role Muon seeks a Staff Optical Engineer to act as a technical lead on our team in Mountain View, CA or Remote, developing infrared remote sensing instruments. The ideal candidate is a self ...

Staff Optical Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site +1

$166K - $223K/yr

About the role Muon seeks a Staff Optical Engineer to act as a technical lead on our team in Mountain View, CA or Remote, developing infrared remote sensing instruments. The ideal candidate is a self ...

Knowledge of smart infrastructure equipment such as automatic feeder switches, remote sensing switching, remote sensing cap banks and other smart equipment * Knowledge of PV's and EV's * Strong ...

Knowledge of smart infrastructure equipment such as automatic feeder switches, remote sensing switching, remote sensing cap banks and other smart equipment * Knowledge of PV's and EV's * Strong ...

Plans and executes aerial imagery and remote sensing data collection using UAVs, ensuring compliance with FAA Part 107 regulations and Dudek safety protocols. * Conducts lidar and magnetometer ...

Plans and executes aerial imagery and remote sensing data collection using UAVs, ensuring compliance with FAA Part 107 regulations and Dudek safety protocols. * Conducts lidar and magnetometer ...

Plans and executes aerial imagery and remote sensing data collection using UAVs, ensuring compliance with FAA Part 107 regulations and Dudek safety protocols. * Conducts lidar and magnetometer ...

Senior Optical Engineer

Mountain View, CA · On-site +1

$166K - $223K/yr

About the role Muon seeks a Senior Optical Engineer to join our team developing infrared remote sensing instruments. You will own stray light control and analysis by defining precise requirements for ...

Showing results 21-40

Remote Sensing information

See California salary details

$28

$32

$36

How much do remote sensing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 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.

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, agriculture, and natural resources, often requiring skills in GIS software and remote sensing tools. Professionals in this field typically work for government agencies, research institutions, or private companies focused on geospatial data analysis.

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:

Infographic showing various Remote Sensing job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,279 per year, or $32.8 per hour.

On-Call Biologist | Resource Management (Part-Time)

Psomas

Roseville, CA • Remote

$28 - $50/hr

Part-time

Posted 16 days ago


Psomas rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

158th of 449 rated engineering


Job description

Biologist | Resource Management | Part-Time, On-Call

Own Your Future at Psomas! Join a 100% employee-owned firm built for long-term thinking, shared success, and meaningful impact.

As our Biologist on our Resource Management team, you will support a variety of environmental and infrastructure projects through biological field studies, regulatory permitting, and technical analyses. This position is ideal for a junior- to mid-level professional who enjoys balancing field and office work and is passionate about protecting sensitive biological resources.

This is a temporary, part-time, on-call opportunity with assignments that may vary based on project needs and workload.

Why Psomas

  • Shared Success: An ownership culture that rewards long-term thinking and doing what's right.
  • People-First Culture: Collaborative teams that invest in your development.
  • Career Growth: Opportunities to gain experience across diverse environmental projects.
  • Meaningful Work: Community-impact projects that support responsible development and resource stewardship.
  • Flexible Opportunities: Project-based assignments that provide a variety of field and office experiences.

What You'll Do: As our Biologist, you will support biological studies and regulatory permitting activities while collaborating with multidisciplinary project teams.

  • Biological Surveys & Assessments: Conduct field surveys, habitat assessments, and desktop biological resource evaluations.
  • Regulatory Permitting: Prepare Section 404, Section 401, and Section 1602 permit applications and coordinate with resource agencies.
  • GIS & Data Collection: Utilize GPS, GIS, and remote sensing tools to collect and analyze biological data.
  • Technical Documentation: Prepare maps, reports, and supporting documentation for agency review.
  • Jurisdictional Delineations: Perform preliminary delineations and assessments of regulated resources.
  • Project Coordination: Support biological studies, agency consultations, and project delivery efforts.
  • Scientific Analysis: Conduct literature reviews and analyze field and remote sensing data.
  • Field Operations: Perform fieldwork in remote locations and varying weather conditions.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Biology, Botany, Ecology, Wildlife Biology, or a related environmental discipline.
  • Minimum of 4 years of experience as a Biologist or Regulatory Specialist.
  • Prior consulting firm or agency experience.
  • Experience conducting field surveys and wildlife studies, including sensitive and endangered species.
  • Knowledge of Southern California plant communities, wildlife species, and applicable environmental regulations.
  • Working knowledge of the Endangered Species Acts, Clean Water Act Sections 404 and 401, Section 1600 and 1602 of the California Fish and Game Code, and basic NEPA and CEQA requirements.
  • Experience with GPS/GIS technologies and database management.
  • Excellent organizational, technical writing, and communication skills.
  • Ability to conduct fieldwork for extended periods in remote and rugged terrain.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience with trail camera and wildlife camera studies.
  • Experience managing projects and coordinating agency consultations.
  • Familiarity with remote sensing analysis and advanced GIS applications.

Compensation & Benefits

  • Pay Range: $28-$50/hour
  • Meaningful Experience: Opportunities to contribute to diverse environmental and infrastructure projects.
  • Professional Development: Exposure to multidisciplinary teams and varied field assignments.

Our Hiring Approach: Our recruiting team reviews every application personally and will keep candidates informed throughout the process. If a candidate's background aligns with our needs, we'll reach out to discuss next steps.

Equal Opportunity Employer: We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law.


What Psomas employees say

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About Psomas

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US

Year founded

1946

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