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Rpa Sensor Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The primary purpose of the RPA SENSOR OPERATOR (INSTRUCTOR) (ACCELERATED HIRE), GS-2101-11, is to perform duties as a mission crew member on Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA). RPA Sensor Operators ...

We are seeking a Robotic Process Automation (RPA) Developer to support NASA's digital transformation initiatives as part of our Intelligent Automation Services (IAS) team. This role is integral to ...

The RPA Engineer will be responsible for analyzing business processes, gathering requirements, translating them into technical specifications, and working closely with the RPA development team to ...

The RPA Engineer will be responsible for analyzing business processes, gathering requirements, translating them into technical specifications, and working closely with the RPA development team to ...

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Rpa Sensor Operator information

See salary details

$23.5K

$74.1K

$166.5K

How much do rpa sensor operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for rpa sensor operator in the United States is $74,097.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,500.00 and $109,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a typical shift look like for an RPA Sensor Operator, and how do they collaborate with the rest of the mission team?

As an RPA Sensor Operator, you can expect to work in a highly structured environment, often on rotating shifts to support 24/7 operations. Your typical shift involves monitoring and operating sensor equipment on remotely piloted aircraft, collecting and analyzing real-time imagery and data. Collaboration with the rest of the mission team, including pilots, intelligence analysts, and mission commanders, is crucial for mission success. Clear communication and teamwork are essential skills, as sensor operators provide critical information that supports decision-making during missions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an RPA Sensor Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an RPA Sensor Operator, you need a solid understanding of aerial surveillance, sensor payload operation, and military protocols, typically supported by relevant military training and security clearance. Familiarity with ground control stations, intelligence-gathering software, and systems like Full Motion Video (FMV) is essential. Keen attention to detail, strong situational awareness, and effective communication are vital soft skills for success in this role. These skills are important because they ensure accurate data collection, support timely decision-making, and contribute to mission success in demanding environments.

What is the difference between Rpa Sensor Operator vs Rpa Developer?

AspectRpa Sensor OperatorRpa Developer
Required CredentialsBasic RPA training, certifications in automation toolsAdvanced programming skills, certifications in RPA platforms
Work EnvironmentMonitoring automation processes, troubleshooting sensorsDesigning, developing, and deploying automation workflows
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in industries with automation monitoring needsUsed in software development and automation projects
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for automation roles involving sensorsCompared for development and scripting roles in RPA

The main difference is that Rpa Sensor Operators focus on monitoring and maintaining automation sensors, while Rpa Developers design and build automation workflows. Sensor Operators typically require basic RPA certifications and work in operational environments, whereas Developers need advanced programming skills for creating automation solutions.

What are RPA Sensor Operators?

RPA Sensor Operators are specialists responsible for operating sensor systems on remotely piloted aircraft (RPAs), such as drones, for military or surveillance missions. They manage cameras, radar, and other onboard sensors to gather intelligence, track targets, and provide real-time data to mission commanders. Their role is crucial for situational awareness and mission success, requiring technical expertise and attention to detail. RPA Sensor Operators typically work as part of a crew, collaborating closely with RPA pilots and mission analysts.
More about Rpa Sensor Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Rpa Sensor Operator jobs? Cities with the most Rpa Sensor Operator job openings:
What states have the most Rpa Sensor Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Rpa Sensor Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Rpa Sensor Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $74,097 per year, or $35.6 per hour.
RPA SENSOR OPERATOR (INSTRUCTOR)

RPA SENSOR OPERATOR (INSTRUCTOR)

Air National Guard Units

Horsham, PA • On-site, Remote

$82K - $106K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Posted 6 days ago


Air National Guard rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 46 rated military and defense


Job description

Summary
THIS IS A NATIONAL GUARD TITLE 32 EXCEPTED SERVICE POSITION.
This National Guard position is for a RPA SENSOR OPERATOR (INSTRUCTOR), Position Description Number D2294000 and is part of the Pennsylvania National Guard, National Guard.
1 or more Position(s) may be hired against this Announcement.
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Duties
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As a RPA Sensor Operator, GS-2101-11, you will perform mission planning, preflight, in-flight, and post-flight duties in accordance with aircraft technical orders, applicable Air Force Instructions (AFIs), and Unified Combatant Commands' theater Rules of Engagement (ROE). Perform Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), Close Air Support (CAS); Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR); Dynamic Targeting/Time Sensitive Targeting (DT/TST); Air Interdiction (AI); Strike Coordination and Reconnaissance (SCAR); and Air Operations in Maritime Surface Warfare (AOMSW) utilizing Full Motion Video (FMV) and various sensors, mission equipment, and precision guided munitions. Assist in air navigation, AOB integration, fire control planning, and determining effective weapons control and delivery tactics to achieve overall mission objectives. Conduct crewmember duties related to deployed and in-garrison launch and recovery operations. Perform training, planning, standardization and evaluation, and other administrative duty functions for Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) system operations. Perform other duties as assigned.
Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • NATIONAL GUARD MEMBERSHIP IS REQUIRED. If you are not sure you are eligible for military membership, please contact a National Guard recruiter prior to applying for this position.
  • This is an excepted service position that requires membership in a compatible military assignment in the employing state's National Guard, required prior to the effective date of placement.
  • Selectee will be required to wear the military uniform.
  • Acceptance of an excepted service position constitutes concurrence with these requirements as a condition of employment.
  • Applicants who are not currently a member of the National Guard must be eligible for immediate membership and employment in the National Guard in the military grade listed in this announcement.
  • Males born after 31 December 1959 must be registered for Selective Service.
  • Federal employment suitability as determined by a background investigation.
  • May be required to successfully complete a trial period.
  • Participation in direct deposit is mandatory.

Qualifications
APPOINTMENT STATUS: EXCEPTED
This is a Dual Status Excepted Service Technician position in the Pennsylvania Air National Guard.
AREA OF CONSIDERATION:
Non-Bargaining Position
AOC 1: NG Employees at the 111th ATKW
Military Grades:
ENLISTED E7
Supervisor for this position is CMSgt Sean Matraszek.
Manpower #: 01054117
*NOTE: Accessioning into this position is contingent upon verification of Secret Security Clearance
GENERAL EXPERIENCE: Experience, education, or training interpreting, explaining, and/or applying a variety of regulations and procedures. Experience using computer and automation systems.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Application must indicate at least 36 months experience, education, or training arranging or procuring transportation for personnel, cargo or freight. Experience in non-routine pre and post auditing of freight bills, bills of lading, and personnel transportation vouchers. Experience coordinating and negotiating with organizations/personnel both orally and in writing to resolve differences/problems.
QUALITY OF EXPERIENCE: Length of time is not of itself qualifying. Candidates' experience should be evaluated on the basis of duties performed rather than strictly on the rank of the individual; however, established compatibility criteria/assignments must be followed. The applicant's record of experience, training, and education must show possession of the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to fully perform the duties of the position to be filled.
SPECIAL NOTE: Per the Merit Promotion and Placement Plan (MPP) if there are more than 15 qualified applicants for each position, by category, a KSA board will be convened in accordance with Chapter 4 of the MPP.
PCS STATEMENT: PERMANENT CHANGE OF STATION COSTS WILL NOT BE PAID FOR THIS POSITION.
The Department of Military and Veterans Affairs is a diverse team of professionals who strengthen our commonwealth by serving our veterans and partners while preparing military personnel to safeguard our way of life. We do not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factors.
Additional information
If you are a male applicant who was born after 12/31/1959 and are required to register under the Military Selective Service Act, the Defense Authorization Act of 1986 requires that you be registered or you are not eligible for appointment in this agency (Register | Selective Service System : Selective Service System (sss.gov)).
REPROMOTION CONSIDERATION (Applies to technician applicants only.)Technicians who have been demoted from this or a higher grade previously held in the same occupational series without personal cause and who are not in a grade retention status will be given consideration for re-promotion. Technicians who believe they are entitled to such consideration should forward a description of the circumstances with their application. Technicians eligible for re-promotion will be considered prior to using competitive promotion procedures, except when another technician has a statutory or regulatory right to be placed in or considered for the position.
In accordance with section 9902(h) of title 5, United States Code, annuitants reemployed in the Department of Defense shall receive full annuity and salary upon appointment. They shall not be eligible for retirement contributions, participation in the Thrift Savings Plan, or a supplemental or redetermined annuity for the employment period. Discontinued service retirement annuitants (i.e., retired under section 8336(d)(1) or 8414(b)(1)(A) of title 5 United States Code) appointed to the Department of Defense may elect to be subject to retirement provisions of the new appointment as appropriate. (See DoD Instruction 1400.25, Volume 300, at http://www.dtic.mil/whs/directives.)"
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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefits
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

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