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Sensor Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sharper Shape

Aerial Sensor System Operator

Red Bluff, CA · On-site

$35/hr

Aerial Sensor System Operator Part-Time - Temporary Sharper Shape, a leader in aerial remote sensing data collection and processing, is looking for adventurous and technically savvy people to operate ...

Department of the Air Force

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 ...

Zoox

Manager - Sensor Calibration

Foster City, CA · On-site

$242K - $333K/yr

As the Sensor Calibration Manager, you will play a critical role in the development and reliability ... Operating at the intersection of robotics and advanced hardware engineering, you will collaborate ...

Zoox

Manager - Sensor Calibration

Foster City, CA

$242K - $333K/yr

As the Sensor Calibration Manager, you will play a critical role in the development and reliability ... Operating at the intersection of robotics and advanced hardware engineering, you will collaborate ...

Zoox

Manager - Sensor Calibration

Foster City, CA · On-site

As the Sensor Calibration Manager, you will play a critical role in the development and reliability ... Operating at the intersection of robotics and advanced hardware engineering, you will collaborate ...

FieldAI

Sensor Systems Engineer-Federal

Irvine, CA

... operating conditions. You will collaborate closely with the autonomy, compute, electrical, and ... Sensor Architecture: Work across hardware and software teams to define sensing requirements.

FieldAI

Sensor Systems Engineer-Federal

Irvine, CA · On-site

... operating conditions. You will collaborate closely with the autonomy, compute, electrical, and ... Sensor Architecture: Work across hardware and software teams to define sensing requirements.

Rivian

Staff Sensor Design Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$167K - $209K/yr

... under real-world operating conditions. Responsibilities - Lead the design, development ... sensor selection, evaluation, and bring-up, including root cause analysis on field failures or ...

Rivian

Staff Sensor Design Engineer

Palo Alto, CA

$167K - $209K/yr

... under real-world operating conditions. Responsibilities - Lead the design, development ... sensor selection, evaluation, and bring-up, including root cause analysis on field failures or ...

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Sensor Operator information

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 job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A sensor operator typically does not earn $10,000 a month without specialized training or experience. High-paying roles in fields like sales, real estate, or entrepreneurship can reach that level without a degree, but most technical jobs, including sensor operation, require relevant skills or certifications. Achieving such income often involves advanced skills, experience, or working in high-demand industries.

What jobs pay $6,000 a month?

Sensor operators and similar technical roles can earn around $6,000 per month, especially with experience, certifications, and working in specialized environments such as manufacturing, security, or industrial settings. Salaries vary based on location, industry, and level of expertise, with higher pay often associated with overtime or shift work.

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.

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 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.

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 do sensor operators do?

Sensor operators monitor and interpret data from various sensors and surveillance equipment to detect and track objects or activities. They often work in security, military, or industrial environments, using specialized tools and maintaining certifications to ensure accurate and timely responses.

How much does a sensor operator make?

Sensor operators typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. They often require technical skills and certifications related to sensor systems and data analysis, and may work in environments such as manufacturing, security, or military operations.
More about Sensor Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Sensor Operator jobs in California? The most popular types of Sensor Operator jobs in California are:
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What job categories do people searching Sensor Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Sensor Operator jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Sensor Operator jobs? Cities in California with the most Sensor Operator job openings:
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Sensor Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sensor Operator job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% Internship, 72% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 7% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
MH-60R Sensor Operator Instructor

MH-60R Sensor Operator Instructor

Aviation Training Consulting LLC

San Diego, CA • On-site

$111K/yr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Provide MH-60R training and instruction to foreign military students employing academics, simulation devices, and in-aircraft flight experience. Provide a full range of MH-60R subject matter expertise in development of safe, sound flight operations and training. May provide additional special services such as courseware and publication reviews, grade sheet development, safety, quality audits, scheduling, training tracking, functional check flights, and other duties as may be assigned.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
The primary duty of the Sensor Operator Instructor (SOI) is to train foreign students and will involve direct interface with foreign transition sensor operator trainees, government contractors, active-duty Navy instructors, and other local personnel, while operating aircraft and associated trainers and equipment (manning trainer/equipment instructor station(s) and classroom instruction).
  • Conduct scheduled SOI led/supported training for training devices and systems trainers, including operating and static aircraft, including briefs and debriefs, using traditional and modern tools such as interactive white boards, computers and video projectors.
  • Evaluate and document student training/mission performance as required.
  • Evaluate and record trainer performance in accordance with established Navy doctrine.
  • Review curriculum, assess, and recommend improvements to the training program via the appropriate training management officials.
  • Perform flights and flight training consistent with USG-approved flight syllabus.
  • Conduct training device operation/instruction to personnel as necessary, to include briefing, debriefing and grading/assessments.
  • Provide academic instruction to include instructor-led lecture discussion for self-paced computer aided instruction (CAI), computer-based training (CBT), etc. in support of courses required for MH-60R Sensor Operators.
  • Provide classroom instruction and recommendations for improvement, to include test materials, lesson plans, and trainee guides under the guidelines of current directives.
  • Attend required scheduled meetings (e.g., Scheduling, Standardization, Instructor Pilot/Aircrew, Safety).
  • Perform administrative duties such as record keeping, student progress monitoring, counseling, quality assurance, safety, security, and maintenance of training programs and equipment.
  • Safely conduct classroom, academic and practical labs, simulator, and flight instruction, maintaining a clean workspace and classroom environment.
  • Perform daily/weekly flight schedule writing duties as assigned.
  • Assist the IMSO for support of student movement through the training program.
  • Assist with other administrative and non-administrative duties as assigned.
  • Complete additional duties as assigned by the Program Manager.

Requirements
Aviation instruction is a highly specialized function that requires the instructor to have credibility established by prior aircraft operational experience, prior instructional experience, and the ability to hold the attention of the students.
  • SOI shall have a minimum of 300 hours as an MH-60R Sensor Operator (AWR-type).
  • Have a minimum of two (2) years' instructional experience in the MH-60R.
  • Shall have previous anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare mission experience.
  • Possess and maintain a FAA Class II Medical Certificate or USN Flight Physical.
  • Must be eligible to hold a SECRET DoD Personal Security Clearance.
  • Must be willing to work any hours, any shift, or day of the week as required.
  • Must be able to work overtime as required.

Additional Requirements
  • Complete and maintain all required aviation physiology and water survival qualifications.
  • Successfully complete an MH-60R refresher syllabus, if required, including instructor under training (IUT) syllabus.
  • Be designated an instructor by designated naval authority.
  • Annually pass/maintain an MH-60R NATOPS evaluation/qualification administered by designated naval authority in accordance with naval aviation flight directives and civilian contract governing directives.
  • Complete other necessary qualifications annually or as required, including but not limited to laser safety, spatial disorientation training, and NITE lab.
  • Remain flight current/proficient as per squadron flight directives and civilian contract governing directives.
  • Maintain emergency procedure and mission systems operation proficiency.
  • Maintain proficiency in operation of essential all MH-60R aircrew training devices.
EOE/M/F/Vet/Disabled.
Salary Description
Starting $111,110.00

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