2

Remote Sensing Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Overview The Flight Acquisition Manager will lead an active and expanding airborne remote sensing and ground survey program consisting of 25+ field and office support staff, oversee multiple teams ...

Remote Sensing information

See Portland, OR salary details

$30

$35

$38

How much do remote sensing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for remote sensing in Portland, OR is $35.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.12 and $37.26 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.

What are popular job titles related to Remote Sensing jobs in Portland, OR? For Remote Sensing jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Remote Sensing jobs? Cities near Portland, OR with the most Remote Sensing job openings:
Infographic showing various Remote Sensing job openings in Portland, OR as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $73,220 per year, or $35.2 per hour.
Flight Acquisition Manager

Flight Acquisition Manager

NV5

Portland, OR • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 11 days ago


NV5 rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

136th of 442 rated engineering


Job description

Overview
The Flight Acquisition Manager will lead an active and expanding airborne remote sensing and ground survey program consisting of 25+ field and office support staff, oversee multiple teams that are deployed throughout North America, and have responsibility for remote sensing physical assets (sensors, aircraft, vehicles, and survey equipment).
Work Environment:
  • Location: NV5 Geospatial ACQ offices; We will prioritize candidates that align with one of the Acquisition office locations in Portland, Corvallis, Anchorage, or Sheyboygan Falls.
  • Schedule: Regular office hours per location; Flexible work arrangements may be authorized.
  • Travel up to 10%

NV5 is a global technology solutions and consulting services company with a workforce of over 4,500 professionals in more than 100 offices worldwide. NV5's continued growth has been spurred through strategic investments in firms with unique capabilities to help current and future customers solve the world's toughest problems. The NV5 family brings together talent across a wide range of markets and fields, including Professional Engineers, Professional Land Surveyors, Architects, Photogrammetrists, GIS Professionals, Software Developers, IT, Project Management Professionals, and more.
At NV5 Geospatial, we are a collaboration of intelligent, innovative thinkers who care for each other, our communities, and the environment. We value both heart and head, the diversity of our people, and their experiences because that is how we continue to grow as a leader in our industry and expand our individual and collective potential.
Responsibilities
Primary Accountabilities
40% - Flight Operations
  • Performs coordination for all acquisition efforts assigned.
  • Oversight of staff assignments including scheduling, reports, and reviews.
  • Develop and prioritize a schedule for projects in consultation with Project Managers, Flight Operations Manager, Director of Flight Operations and Director of Maintenance.
  • Schedule assets to cover the production schedule.
  • Mission planning includes reviewing job specifications, weather interpretation, ground support coordination, onsite project coordination and client coordination.
  • Work daily with all Flight Department staff to determine mission priorities.
  • Maintain operational control of the aircraft monitoring mission plan, departure, and arrival times.
20% - Project Management
  • Maintain project management software as it relates to acquisition efforts.
  • Responsible for notification of project status or completion to Account Managers, Project Managers and Director of Data Aerial Operations.
  • Create flight plans and develop project plans in support of estimating.
  • Create and update Project Tracking documents and Flight Backlog.
10% - Personnel Management
  • Establish minimum employment qualifications, hiring procedures, salary structure, performance appraisal procedures, grade structure and dismissal procedures with HR support.
  • Manage human resources for direct team including headcount, hiring, and training compliance.
  • Maintain high morale through awareness of company policies, employee development programs, and departmental goals and objectives.
10% - Field Operations
  • Acquire data as a crew member as schedule permits to stay current with technology.
  • Assist with sensor installation and removal from the aircraft as needed.
10% - Relationships (Internal/External)
  • Advise management on status and requirements for current and future aircraft and sensor solutions.
  • Ensure high levels of customer service to the company and its customers.
  • Establish and maintain partner and vendor relationships that meet NV5 standards.
10% - Safety/Compliance
  • Develop and maintain a corporate culture emphasizing safety as a core value.
  • Understand and comply with ethical, legal, and regulatory requirements.
  • Maintain operational control of the aircraft.

Qualifications
Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in science, engineering, or a related field
  • 3+ years progressive experience in aviation and remote sensing technology
  • 1+ year of management experience
  • Valid driver's license required
  • Authorized travel to North American countries

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Understanding of geospatial concepts and survey methods
  • Operational knowledge of GIS and industry standard flight planning software (MissionPro, TrackAir, TopoFlight, etc.)
  • Ability to work in office in Portland, OR, or potentially, another NV5 acquisition facility (Corvallis, OR, Sheboygan, WI, Hawthorne, CA)
  • Preference will be given to candidates able to create and maintain a regular schedule of in-office days

Required Skills:
  • Attention to detail
  • Self-motivated
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills
  • CPR & First Aid

Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to lift 50 pounds
  • Driving company and rental vehicles as needed
  • Outside flight operations, exposure to the cold and heat, elements of the seasons

NV5 offers a competitive compensation and benefits package including medical, dental, life insurance, PTO, 401(k) and professional development/advancement opportunities.
NV5 provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. NV5 complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
#LI-Remote

What NV5 employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


NV5 logo

About NV5

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

NV5 is a renowned company based in Los Angeles, CA, US, that operates in the architecture, engineering, and consulting industry. Officially established in 2009, this company provides technical engineering and consulting solutions that cater to public and private sectors globally. The firm is adept in a wide range of services, including infrastructure, energy, construction, program management, and environmental services. As part of its mission, NV5 seeks to deliver solutions that enhance communities and safeguard the environment meticulously.

Industry

Civil engineering construction

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles, CA, US