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Remotely Piloted Aircraft Sensor Operator Jobs in Colorado

Remotely Piloted Aircraft Sensor Operator information

See Colorado salary details

$10

$23

$32

How much do remotely piloted aircraft sensor operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for remotely piloted aircraft sensor operator in Colorado is $23.20, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.53 and $31.73 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a remotely piloted aircraft sensor operator?

Remotely Piloted Aircraft Sensor Operators are professionals who control and monitor sensors and surveillance equipment on unmanned aerial vehicles (drones). They are responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data from these aircraft, which can include imagery, video, and other sensor information. These operators play a crucial role in military, law enforcement, and commercial operations by providing real-time intelligence and situational awareness. Their duties often involve mission planning, equipment maintenance, and working closely with pilots and mission commanders to achieve operational objectives.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a remotely piloted aircraft sensor operator?

To thrive as a Remotely Piloted Aircraft Sensor Operator, you need strong spatial awareness, attention to detail, and knowledge of aeronautical systems, often supported by military training or relevant certifications. Familiarity with remote piloting control systems, mapping software, and sensor technologies such as infrared or electro-optical cameras is essential. Excellent communication, teamwork, and decision-making skills are crucial for coordinating with flight crews and interpreting data accurately. These abilities ensure effective mission execution, data integrity, and safe operation in complex and dynamic environments.

What are the typical collaboration dynamics between a remotely piloted aircraft sensor operator and other crew members during a mission?

As a Remotely Piloted Aircraft Sensor Operator, you will work closely with the pilot and mission intelligence team to ensure the success of surveillance and reconnaissance missions. Effective communication and real-time information sharing are crucial, as you coordinate sensor operation, target identification, and data collection. You may also collaborate with ground support and maintenance personnel before and after flights. Building strong teamwork skills and maintaining situational awareness are essential to managing the fast-paced, detail-oriented environment typical of these operations.

What is the difference between Remotely Piloted Aircraft Sensor Operator vs Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Pilot?

AspectRemotely Piloted Aircraft Sensor OperatorUnmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Pilot
CredentialsFAA Part 107 certification, sensor operation trainingFAA Part 107 certification, pilot certification
Work EnvironmentOperate sensors and cameras remotely, often in surveillance or reconnaissance missionsFly and navigate drones, often in mapping or delivery tasks
Industry UsageMilitary, defense, surveillance, intelligenceCommercial, agriculture, photography, delivery

The main difference is that the Remotely Piloted Aircraft Sensor Operator focuses on operating sensors and cameras on drones, while the UAS Pilot is responsible for flying and navigating the drone itself. Both roles require FAA certification, but their responsibilities and industry applications differ significantly.

What does a Remotely Piloted Aircraft Sensor Operator do?

A Remotely Piloted Aircraft Sensor Operator is responsible for managing and operating sensors and imaging equipment on unmanned aircraft systems to collect intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance data. They monitor sensor performance, interpret data, and ensure the quality of information gathered during missions, often working with specialized training and certifications. The role requires technical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to operate complex equipment in a remote or field environment.

What are popular job titles related to Remotely Piloted Aircraft Sensor Operator jobs in Colorado?

For Remotely Piloted Aircraft Sensor Operator jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Remotely Piloted Aircraft Sensor Operator jobs in Colorado look for?

The top searched job categories for Remotely Piloted Aircraft Sensor Operator jobs in Colorado are:

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Remotely Piloted Aircraft Sensor Operator jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Remotely Piloted Aircraft Sensor Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Remotely Piloted Aircraft Sensor Operator job openings in Colorado as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, and 15% Part Time. Highlights an 100% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,255 per year, or $23.2 per hour.

Director, Strategic Development-Remote Space Sensing Systems (RS3)

General Atomics

Centennial, CO • On-site, Remote

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago


General Atomics rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Job Summary
General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world's leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies.
We have an exciting opportunity for the Director of Strategic Development within GA-EMS Electromagnetic Systems Group.
This position reports to the Senior Director Strategic Development - Space & ISR Systems and is responsible for directing business development activities for products/services of the supported organization. Oversee the development and implementation of short and long-term objectives for the supported organization(s) and may consult with executive management to develop and implement current, annual, and long-term business development objectives for the organization.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Responsible for strategic development for US government space programs, overseeing all phases of space business development activities to ensure business and financial objectives are attained for US Government development space opportunities.
  • Consult with GA EMS Senior Director of Strategic Development (Space & ISR Systems), Senior Director RS3 Communications Systems (RS3Comm), and Vice President (VP) of Classified Space Systems (CSS) in pursuing Space business partnerships and alliances that enhance the capabilities of the organization.
  • Provides leadership and guidance in implementing new and revised strategic objectives and acts as a liaison with other organizations and affiliates.
  • Typically accomplishes objectives through subordinate management.
  • Represents the organization(s) with customers and potential customers, both domestic and foreign, and business and non-business communities on significant matters.
  • May be responsible for decisions that have serious impact on overall success of the unit, group and/or corporation.
  • Oversee all phases of business development activities to ensure business and financial objectives are attained.
  • Direct the development of new strategic business opportunities and expansion of existing business opportunities. Consult with management in pursuing business partnerships, alliances, and joint ventures that enhance the capabilities of the organization.
  • Direct activities to identify markets, licensing opportunities, and determine the feasibility of product development.
  • Direct the assessment of potential business opportunities through activities such as market and economic analysis, monitoring competitive activity and identifying customer needs.
  • Direct and influence the preparation of proposals, business plans, proposal work statements and specifications, operating budgets and financial terms/conditions of contract(s).
  • Consult with executive management to develop and implement current, annual and long-term schedule, quality, business, and financial objectives for the unit(s) and participate in the development of Group/Company objectives.
  • Act as the primary contact for high level business development activities. Lead progress review sessions to discuss cost, schedule, and technical performance and to disseminate information on a continuous basis to all pertinent parties concerning the fulfillment of project goals and objectives.
  • Direct the development of and adherence to master plan(s), milestones, and schedules for the organization.
  • Identify business development issues and provide leadership in developing solutions such as re-allocation of resources or modifying contract specifications.
  • Ensure business leadership and excellence is maintained by directing the planning, attraction, selection, retention, and development of the required management, professional, and technical talent.
  • Maintain the strict confidentiality of sensitive information.

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.
Job Qualifications
  • Typically requires a Bachelors or Masters in engineering and/or business administration or a related field and fifteen or more years of progressively complex experience in business development with at least nine years managing business development activities. May substitute equivalent experience in lieu of education.
  • US Citizenship is required as is the ability to maintain a Top-Secret Security Clearance. Ideally, the candidate will have an active TS clearance with SCI or eligibility.
  • Experience with national security space customers and their prime contractors to include the Department of Defense and Intelligence Community is desired.
  • Working knowledge of space systems and technologies across the space domain and the various orbital regimes for both Government and Commercial Markets. Must demonstrate detailed and extensive expertise and application of business development principles and concepts, and practice as well as comprehensive project management and leadership skills including organizing, planning, scheduling, and coordinating workloads to meet established deadlines or milestones.
  • Must possess the ability to resolve unusually complex problems; serve as spokesperson on projects.
  • Strong communication, leadership, presentation, and interpersonal skills are required to enable an effective interface with other departments, all levels of management, professional and support staff, customers, potential customers, and government representatives.

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About General Atomics

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world's leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Diego, CA, US

Year founded

1955