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Remote Sensing Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

GRVTY

Senior Scientist

Herndon, VA · On-site +1

$94K - $128K/yr

Conduct multi-platform remote sensing analytics across varied sensors, collection geometries, and data streams. * Support the full TCPED process for OPIR - from tasking and collection planning ...

Leidos

Hyperspectral Image Scientist

Springfield, VA · On-site +1

$92K - $166K/yr

Integrate hyperspectral analytics with other GEOINT, remote sensing, and intelligence data sources. * Prepare technical reports, briefings, white papers, and documentation for government stakeholders.

GRVTY

Senior Scientist

Herndon, VA · On-site +1

$150K - $235K/yr

Conduct multi-platform remote sensing analytics across varied sensors, collection geometries, and data streams. * Support the full TCPED process for OPIR -- from tasking and collection planning ...

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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 Aug 10, 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 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 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 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $66,246 per year, or $31.8 per hour.

Remote Sensing Engineer

Riverside Research Institute

Springfield, VA • On-site, Remote

$97K - $135K/yr

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Riverside Overview
Riverside Research is an independent National Security Nonprofit dedicated to research and development in the national interest. We provide high-end technical services, research and development, and prototype solutions to some of the country's most challenging technical problems.
All Riverside Research opportunities require U.S. Citizenship.
Position Overview
We are seeking a skilled Remote Sensing Engineer to support the development, analysis, and exploitation of remote sensing data for national security, defense, and geospatial intelligence missions. The ideal candidate has experience working with geospatial datasets, remote sensing technologies, and automation tools, and is comfortable collaborating across multidisciplinary teams to solve complex technical challenges.
An active Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS/SCI) clearance is required for this position.
Responsibilities
  • Process, analyze, and interpret satellite, airborne, and other remotely sensed imagery.
  • Develop and maintain geospatial analysis workflows and automated processing pipelines.
  • Design and implement Python-based tools to support imagery processing, feature extraction, and geospatial analysis.
  • Perform image classification, object detection, change detection, and spatial analysis using commercial and open-source tools.
  • Support sensor calibration, validation, and quality assurance activities.
  • Work closely with engineers, data scientists, and intelligence analysts to develop mission-focused solutions.
  • Prepare technical documentation, reports, and presentations for technical and non-technical audiences.
  • Evaluate emerging remote sensing technologies and recommend improvements to existing workflows.
  • Contribute to project planning, technical discussions, and continuous process improvement initiatives.

Qualifications
Required Qualifications
  • Active TS/SCI security clearance (required).
  • Bachelor's degree in Remote Sensing, Geospatial Science, Geography, GIS, Computer Science, Engineering, Physics, Environmental Science, or a related technical discipline.
  • minimum of 5 years professional experience in remote sensing, geospatial analysis, GIS, or a related engineering field.
  • Experience processing and analyzing satellite, aerial, or other remotely sensed imagery.
  • Proficiency with remote sensing and GIS software such as ArcGIS Pro, QGIS, ENVI, ERDAS Imagine, or similar platforms.
  • Strong Python programming skills for geospatial analysis and workflow automation.
  • Experience with geospatial libraries such as GDAL, Rasterio, GeoPandas, Shapely, or OpenCV.
  • Understanding of raster and vector geospatial data formats and coordinate reference systems.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities and work independently in a remote, collaborative environment.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience supporting DoD, NGA, NRO, or Intelligence Community programs.
  • Experience with SAR, LiDAR, hyperspectral, multispectral, or thermal imagery.
  • Familiarity with cloud-based geospatial processing environments such as AWS or Azure.
  • Experience with machine learning or computer vision techniques applied to geospatial imagery.
  • Knowledge of containerization technologies such as Docker and modern software development practices.
  • Experience with Git and collaborative software development workflows.

Global Comp
$97,000 - $135,000 This represents the typical compensation range for this position based on experience, location and other factors.
Closing Statement
Riverside Research Institute is a not-for-profit, technology-oriented defense company, where service to our customers and support of our staff is our overall mission. Riverside is an affirmative action-equal opportunity employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws regarding recruitment and hiring. Riverside offers comprehensive compensation and benefit packages to our employees.
Riverside bases its employment decisions solely on technical experience, qualifications and other job-related criteria related to our organizational purpose as a not-for-profit company, and without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex marital status, sexual orientation, national origin, physical or mental disability, veteran's status or any other status legally protected by applicable federal, state, and local law.

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