ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Sensor Operator Jobs in Arizona (NOW HIRING)

ASM

Snr Engineer I, Systems Engineering

Phoenix, AZ

Develop and execute test plans to evaluate sensor performance under various operating conditions. * Analyze data to identify trends, troubleshoot issues, and optimize sensor functionality. * Drive ...

ASM

Snr Engineer I, Systems Engineering

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

Develop and execute test plans to evaluate sensor performance under various operating conditions. * Analyze data to identify trends, troubleshoot issues, and optimize sensor functionality. * Drive ...

TSMG

Commercial Truck Driver

Phoenix, AZ

Drivers will work in a two-shift structure and support basic field-operator tasks related to sensor readiness, including cleaning and simple reset procedures. This is a field operations position ...

TSMG

Commercial Truck Driver

Phoenix, AZ

Drivers will work in a two-shift structure and support basic field-operator tasks related to sensor readiness, including cleaning and simple reset procedures. This is a field operations position ...

Hexagon Mining, Inc.

Field Engineer

Tucson, AZ · On-site

Hexagon is a global leader in digital reality solutions, combining sensor, software, and autonomous ... Loading of basic configurations, upgrades and operating systems onto computing equipment (field and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsSensor Operator JobsSensor Operator Jobs in Arizona

Sensor Operator information

See Arizona salary details

$5

$14

$15

How much do sensor operator jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for sensor operator in Arizona is $14.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.33 and $15.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Sensor Operator Do?

A sensor operator is a fairly new position with the advent of unmanned aircraft and involves employing airborne sensors, either manually or with the help of a computer, to track and monitor various objects. The air force is one major employer for these types of defense positions. In this role, you assist with flight operations, debriefing, and planning missions. Your main task is to continually monitor these surveillance and weapon systems in a remote setting, ensuring each mission is successful. Other duties include detecting the correct targets using various forms of radar and video.

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

To thrive as a Sensor Operator, you need strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and an understanding of electronic and surveillance systems, often supported by specialized military or technical training. Familiarity with sensor platforms, data analysis software, GPS systems, and sometimes security clearance are typically required. Excellent communication, teamwork, and decision-making skills help operators relay critical information quickly and accurately. These abilities are vital for ensuring accurate data collection and mission success in high-stakes environments.

How does a Sensor Operator typically collaborate with other team members during a mission?

Sensor Operators work closely with pilots, mission commanders, and intelligence analysts to ensure accurate data collection and mission success. During operations, they communicate real-time findings, relay critical information, and adjust sensor settings based on team feedback. This role requires strong teamwork, adaptability, and clear communication, as decisions made by the Sensor Operator often impact mission outcomes and safety. Effective collaboration is key to interpreting data correctly and responding quickly to evolving mission scenarios.

What is a Sensor Operator?

A Sensor Operator is a specialized professional who operates and monitors sensor equipment, often on military aircraft such as drones or surveillance planes. Their main responsibility is to collect, analyze, and interpret data from various sensors, including radar, infrared, and video systems. Sensor Operators play a critical role in intelligence gathering, reconnaissance, and targeting missions. They work closely with pilots and mission commanders to provide real-time information and ensure the success of missions. This role requires strong technical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to make quick decisions under pressure.

What is the difference between Sensor Operator vs Radar Technician?

AspectSensor OperatorRadar Technician
Required CredentialsTypically certifications in sensor systems or related fields, sometimes associate degreesCertifications in radar systems, electronics, or technical degrees
Work EnvironmentControl rooms, field sites, or industrial settingsMaintenance facilities, technical labs, or field service locations
Employer & Industry UsageMilitary, aerospace, security, industrial sectorsDefense, aerospace, transportation, and military sectors
Common Search & ComparisonSensor OperatorRadar Technician

Sensor Operators and Radar Technicians both work with radar and sensor systems, often in similar industries like defense and aerospace. Sensor Operators focus on monitoring and operating sensor equipment, while Radar Technicians specialize in maintaining and repairing radar systems. Both roles require technical certifications and are vital for system performance, but their daily tasks and focus areas differ.

More about Sensor Operator jobs
What are popular job titles related to Sensor Operator jobs in Arizona? For Sensor Operator jobs in Arizona, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Sensor Operator jobs in Arizona look for? The top searched job categories for Sensor Operator jobs in Arizona are:
What cities in Arizona are hiring for Sensor Operator jobs? Cities in Arizona with the most Sensor Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Sensor Operator jobs in AZ? For Sensor Operator jobs in AZ, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Sensor Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sensor Operator job openings in Arizona as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 52% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,767 per year, or $14.8 per hour.
MQ-9 Launch and Recovery Sensor Operator II

MQ-9 Launch and Recovery Sensor Operator II

Albers Aerospace

Yuma, AZ • On-site

$44/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Our core competencies include systems engineering, program management, logistics, production support, aircraft maintenance, and aviation/aerospace services. We were founded in 2015 and since our establishment, we have been attracting the best talent in our fields of interest enabling us to provide cutting-edge solutions and support to our warfighters. We understand and provide expert consultation on weapons systems acquisition programs, maintenance/modernization programs, and sustainment programs. We know defense and we know aircraft systems.
Albers Aerospace is seeking a candidate for a Launch and Recovery MQ-9 Sensor Operator to support USMC aviation operations. This job is in Yuma, Arizona and the candidate must reside/relocate or deploy to Yuma, AZ.
Essential Job Functions:
• Assist pilot in command (PIC) of MQ-9 aircraft and provide safe operation of aircraft payloads, sensors and communications equipment in CONUS and OCONUS locations.
• Participate in all phases of flight to include planning/briefing, execution, debrief and crew resource management.
• Adhere to specific military, civilian and ICAO flight rules to include compliance with FAA regulations.
• Provides expertise in the operation of unmanned aircraft and sensor operations.
• Develop briefing and training materials to support flight operations.
• Plans and performs a wide range of in-process analog, digital, microwave, optical and mechanical systems and equipment under ambient and environmental conditions.
• Technical knowledge and experience with UAS operations to facilitate their integration safely and efficiently into the NAS.
• This effort requires collaboration with US Government organizations and the Original Equipment manufacturer. Ultimately, technical knowledge and experience to support UAS integration into the NAS without reducing existing capacity, decreasing safety, negatively impacting current operators, or increasing the risk to airspace users or persons and property on the ground any more than the integration of comparable new and novel technologies
Note: The duties and responsibilities described on this document are not necessarily a comprehensive list and additional tasks may be assigned to the employee from time to time; and the scope of the job may change as necessitated by business demands.
Required Qualifications:
  • Qualified C-Band Launch and Recovery MQ-9 Sensor Operator or previously qualified Launch and Recovery MQ-9 Sensor Operator (Form 8 within last 3 years)
  • Must have at least 200 hours as a MQ-9 Sensor Operator
  • Must possess current FAA Class II Medical Certificate or DoD equivalent
  • Must have the ability to travel in CONUS
  • Maintaining a DoD Top Secret Security Clearance is required

Preferred Qualifications:
  • MQ-9 Launch and Recovery Instructor/Evaluator Sensor Operator experience
  • 500 MQ-9 flight hours
  • Last flight within 180 days

Physical Requirements:
  • Able to lift 40 pounds and carry without assistance

Reasonable Accommodations
To accomplish this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform, with or without reasonable accommodation, each essential function satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodation may be made to help enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
What We Offer:
Teammates at Albers Aerospace receive a robust benefits package which includes medical, dental and vision plans, matching 401k, 10 days of PTO the first year and 15 after that, 11 holidays, employer paid term life, AD&D, long and short-term disability, and education and certification reimbursement.
This position pays up to $44 hourly
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
The contractor will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor's legal duty to furnish information. 41 CFR 60-1.35(c)
Benefits:
  • 401(k) matching
  • Dental insurance
  • Employee assistance program
  • Flexible schedule
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Parental leave
  • Referral program
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Vision insurance

The pay range for this role is:
44 - 44 USD per hour (Global Deployer- YUMA)

Apply