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Remote Sensing 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 ... Proficiency in Unix-based environments (Linux, macOS) including working with remote servers and ...

All JobsSensing JobsRemote Sensing JobsRemote Sensing Jobs in Michigan

Remote Sensing information

See Michigan salary details

$26

$30

$33

How much do remote sensing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for remote sensing in Michigan is $30.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $28.99 and $32.60 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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 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 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.

More about Remote Sensing jobs
What are popular job titles related to Remote Sensing jobs in Michigan? For Remote Sensing jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Remote Sensing jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Remote Sensing jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Remote Sensing jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Remote Sensing job openings:
Remote Sensing jobs near you
Research Engineer, Remote Sensing

Research Engineer, Remote Sensing

SRI International

Ann Arbor, MI • On-site, Remote

$115K - $172K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

Overview
From our Ann Arbor, MI office, Research Engineers will participate in multi-disciplinary, collaborative teams and contribute to the development of state-of-the-art remote sensing solutions and surveillance technologies. Relevant sensor types include electro-optic/infrared and active/passive radar imaging systems. Projects will include the development of advanced sensor concepts to exploit new and unique phenomenology, and the associated design and validation activities. Check us out!
You will make leading-edge contributions to existing programs and help to shape the direction of future research efforts. You will have the opportunity to develop into a Principal Investigator, designing new research paths, supervising research staff, and interacting with research sponsors to fund new program directions. Most programs are executed in small, highly collaborative groups.
From applied research to product development, the Advanced Technology and Systems Division (ATSD) manages complex projects for government and commercial clients. The vision of ATSD is to create competitive advantages for our customers by inventing new technology and concepts resulting in disruptive, low cost, and high-performance solutions. The division advances the state of the art in diverse areas such as radar and electronic warfare; novel imaging technology; robotics; quantum sensing and metrology; marine technology; and applied optics.
Responsibilities
  • Work with an interdisciplinary team developing algorithms for exploitation of sensor data in geospatial contexts.
  • Formation and analysis of imagery products, development of advanced signal processing tools for image understanding and imagery exploitation, and the integration of data from multiple sources to enhance understanding.
  • Programming, algorithm development, design and execution of Electro-Optic and/or radar computational models & simulations, and analysis of results.
  • Participate in laboratory work, collecting and analyzing sensor data.
  • Additional tasks include defining software and system interfaces, system integration and testing, and field support to experiments and demonstrations. Anticipated work products include written reports and preparation and delivery of presentations and project

Qualifications
  • Ph.D. degree in a relevant field; or Masters in related field with 3 years experience or Bachelors in related field with 5+ years of related experience.
  • U.S. Citizenship with ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance required.
  • Ability for occasional travel associated with meetings and/or data collections

Desired Skills:
  • Experience associated with radar, imaging sensors, image processing, and signal/data processing applications.
  • Experience with software development in C and/or C++ and algorithm implementations in Python/MATLAB.
  • Experience with Unix/Linux operating system
  • Solid analytical ability.

The salary range is: $115,710-$172,115. Salary ranges will vary and are based on several factors, including geographic location, market competitiveness and equity amongst internal employees in similar roles. Positions may also qualify for SRI's Pay for Outstanding Performance program or the annual Performance Based Compensation program. SRI also has a competitive benefits package, to view details please go to https://www.sri.com/resources/benefits/. SRI will accept applications until the position is filled.
SRI is an independent nonprofit research institute headquartered in Menlo Park, Calif., with a rich history of supporting government and industry. We create and deliver world-changing solutions for a safer, healthier, and more sustainable future. For more than 75 years, we have collaborated across technical and scientific disciplines to discover and develop groundbreaking products and technologies and bring innovations and ideas to the marketplace.

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