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Remote Sensing Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Virginia Tech

Postdoctoral Associate

Blacksburg, VA · On-site +1

Research / Scientific The postdoctoral researcher will work at the Hydrologic Innovation and Remote Sensing and the Earth Observation Innovation Lab of the Geoscience Department, Virginia Tech. The ...

Riverside Research

GEOINT Analyst Mid

Charlottesville, VA · Remote

$110K - $150K/yr

Provides non-literal analysis to produce intelligence products, using remote sensing methodologies, on data from a range of airborne and space-based imaging sensors. * Applies customized algorithms ...

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Remote Sensing information

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$27

$31

$35

How much do remote sensing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for remote sensing in Virginia is $31.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $29.95 and $33.70 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 Virginia? For Remote Sensing jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Remote Sensing jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Remote Sensing jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Remote Sensing jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Remote Sensing job openings:
Remote Sensing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Remote Sensing job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 40% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 57% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,246 per year, or $31.8 per hour.
Remote Sensing Architecture Performance Engineer

Remote Sensing Architecture Performance Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation

Chantilly, VA • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation's space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space- delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you'll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space.
The Enterprise Effects Division (EED) drives integration of Aerospace's strategic capabilities across the national space enterprise. The division leverages a broad array of engineering disciplines against a dynamic portfolio of programs, customers, and national challenges. EED spans the capability lifecycle from concept and architecture design to performance assessment to application of space and space-enabled capabilities.
The Surveillance and Navigation Architecture Performance Department (SNAPD) in the Integrated Performance Subdivision aspires to be the premier force advising the evolution of national security and civil space enterprises, leveraging our modeling and simulation (M&S) expertise to evaluate end-to-end architecture performance.
We are seeking a Remote Sensing Architecture Performance Engineer that will make use of sophisticated modeling and simulation tools in support of requirements verification, analyses-of-alternatives (AoA), and performance modeling for space-based remote sensing architectures.
Work Model:
100% onsite at one of the three major Aerospace Corporation locations in Chantilly VA, or El Segundo CA, or Colorado Springs CO.
What You'll Be Doing:
  • Support analysis in one or more of these specific mission areas: geo-spatial intelligence, signals intelligence, space surveillance, navigation systems, and/or space protection supporting defense or intelligence capabilities.

  • Provide analysis to support recommendations for research, development, and acquisition decisions of legacy and emerging customer space-based sensing architectures.

  • Perform architecture evaluation modeling overall performance using in-house or custom-developed analysis tools.

  • Work closely with senior staff, management, and a team to translate customer needs into project objectives and provide quality controlled and assured deliverables to customer organizations

  • Develop and present timely and technically accurate presentations and reports that clearly communicate analysis results and provide recommended solutions to technical leads, management, and customers.

  • Grow awareness of analysis outcomes to provide initial assessments when needed and defend unanticipated results to both internal and external stakeholders.

  • Aid in sustainment, development, and growth of the organization's analysis and simulation capabilities to support increasing functional areas for our diverse customer base.

What You Need to be Successful:
Minimum Requirements for Senior Member of Technical Staff:
  • B.S. degree in aerospace engineering, physics, operations research, mathematics, or a related field from an accredited program.

  • 5 years of relevant educational, professional, and/or technical work experience post bachelor's degree in relevant topic areas (e.g., modeling and simulation, mission analysis, astrodynamics, or space operations.)

  • Demonstrated technical leadership, personal accountability, and adaptability to changing customer expectations

  • Knowledge in one or more of these specific national security space or intelligence mission areas: signals intelligence, geo-spatial intelligence, space surveillance, navigation systems or space protection

  • Familiarity with one or more software languages that may include Python, C/C++, and/or High-Performance Computing/Linux environments.

  • This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance, which is issued by the U.S. government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.

In addition to the above, the minimum requirements for Engineering Specialist include:
  • 8 or more years of increasingly responsible engineering experience

  • Professional experience with one or more of the following subjects: space-related modeling and simulation, geolocation, mission data processing, signal processing, space threats, resilient systems, advanced PNT technologies, algorithm design, software development, or mathematical modeling

  • Proficiency with one or more software languages that may include Python, C, C++, MATLAB, Fortran, Java

How You Can Stand Out:
It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:
  • Graduate degree in one of the fields of study mentioned above

  • Significant, firsthand work history in one or more of the functional/mission areas listed above.

  • Academic or professional background in systems engineering, modeling & simulation, or space-based remote sensing architectures.

  • Demonstrated responsible professional engineering/scientific experience, to include the ability to:

  • Self-manage multiple tasks, deadlines, and deliverables

  • Maintain deliverable quality and manage customer expectations

  • Take direction, work independently, and develop productive working relationships

  • Interact and collaborate across a diverse team in different locations

  • Knowledge of Intelligence Community or U.S. Department of Defense business practices, acquisition policies, or space mission portfolios.

  • Current TS/SCI access with polygraph.

We offer a competitive compensation package where you'll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business. The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below. Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills.
(Min - Max)
$110,400.00 - $193,500.00
Pay Basis: Annual
Leadership Competencies
Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who:
  • Operate Strategically
  • Lead Change
  • Engage with Impact
  • Foster Innovation
  • Deliver Results

Ways We Reward Our Employees
During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits.
Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type. A few highlights include:
  • Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
  • Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
  • Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
  • 401(k) Plan - Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire
  • Flexible spending accounts
  • Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
  • Relocation assistance
  • Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career
  • Education assistance programs
  • An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

We are all unique, from various backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other-the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.
Equal Opportunity Commitment
The Aerospace Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color, religion, genetic information, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you're an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by email at peoplemangmnt.mailbox@aero.org . You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal.

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