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Remote Sensing Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Remote Sensing information

See Portland, OR salary details

$30

$35

$38

How much do remote sensing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 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 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.

Does remote sensing pay well?

Remote sensing professionals typically earn competitive salaries that vary based on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, but experienced analysts or specialists with skills in GIS, satellite imagery, and data analysis can earn higher wages, especially in industries like defense, environmental management, and geospatial technology.

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, natural resources, and disaster management, often requiring skills in GIS software and remote sensing tools like LiDAR and multispectral imaging.

What job categories do people searching Remote Sensing jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Remote Sensing jobs in Portland, OR 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 August 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.

Geospatial Content Specialist / Technical Writer

NV5

Portland, OR • Remote

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement

Posted 4 days ago


NV5 rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 20 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

143rd of 450 rated engineering


Job description

We are looking for a dynamic Geospatial Content Specialist who excels at translating advanced geospatial and remote sensing technologies into compelling both client-facing and internal documentation for stakeholders. As an integral part of our team, you will take ownership of developing and leading content development from initiation to completion, including but not limited to presentation slides, brochures, documentation, proposals, and bids. In addition to content creation, you will help maintain and manage technical writeups and content management, as well as implementing AI to streamline processes and workflows in existing content management and development. You thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment and are energized by the variety each day brings, skillfully managing multiple projects at once. Your background combines hands-on experience in geospatial technologies, strong industry and market insight, and proven project management skills—enabling you to craft clear, differentiated content that positions NV5 to win in a highly competitive landscape.

Work Environment:

  • Work Location: NV5 Geospatial Offices or Remote 
  • Domestic travel up to 10% of the time

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.


  • Exercise independent judgment to coordinate and oversee client-facing documentation development activities.
  • Lead the coordination of marketing material (but not limited to presentation slides, brochures, documentation, proposals, and bids) from initiation to completion, managing multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
  • Develop marketing content that highlights strategy and NV5’s value propositions, differentiators, win themes by analyzing client and internal stakeholder requirements.
  • Coordinate and lead kick-off meetings to align team members and establish clear objectives for content development.
  • Interview subject matter experts to gather critical information necessary for technical content development.
  • Oversee the entire document production process, including compiling and formatting materials for creation and submission.
  • Apply advanced project management, writing, and strategic thinking skills in proposal development.
  • Utilize advanced software tools such as Adobe InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, ArcGIS Pro, QGIS, Google Earth Pro, MS Word, and PowerPoint to enhance content quality and presentation.
  • Ensure the marketing and documentation strategy and quality meet company standards, directly impacting the likelihood of securing new business.
  • Demonstrate a strong ability to interpret and understand client and internal technical specifications, ensuring meticulous attention to detail so that all technical requirements are accurately reflected and conveyed in the technical proposal.
  • Utilize AI technology to develop efficiencies in writing, content development, and content management processes.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
  • Excellent customer service and organizational skills.
  • Experience in a technical marketing or proposal specialist role, positioning technology services and/or software products in a B2B selling environment.
  • Meticulous attention to detail, with ability to maintain changes and updates throughout documentation process and future work.

Minimum Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree
  • 5+years of experience in a similar role or demonstrated understanding of geospatial.
  • A strategic thinker with the ability to work independently.
  • Technical writing experience and the ability to adapt to new technological trends and translate them into solutions that address client needs.
  • Excellent communicator with good presentation and listening skills, adept at building relationships across multiple teams.
  • Ability to manage and prioritize activities.
  • Ability to handle complex file and information management.
  • Experience in submitting winning bids to RFPs/RFQs.

Desired Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s degree in writing, marketing, engineering or a geospatial field (e.g., remote sensing, GIS).
  • Ability to develop consistent, branded content for client-facing and internal stakeholders.
  • Domain experience in Energy and/or Electric Utilities and Oil and Gas markets.
  • Demonstrated experience with technical geospatial value propositions and ROI positioning within a competitive landscape.
  • Ability to understand remote sensing data acquisition technologies, enterprise-level GIS platforms, geospatial applications development, integrated geospatial solutions, and how they relate to Private clients including Electric Utilities, Oil and Gas, and others.
  • Proven ability to develop proposal and content management processes.

NV5 offers a competitive compensation and benefits package including medical, dental, life insurance, FTO, 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.

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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