1

Sensor Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

MQ-9 Sensor Operator

Palmdale, CA ยท On-site

$78.94 - $83.73/hr

MQ-9 Sensor Operator JOB SUMMARY SDI is seeking MQ-9 LRE & MCE Qualified Instructor Sensor Operators to provide UAS Aircrew Support Services. These positions will be in Gray Butte, CA. Sensor ...

Aerial Sensor System Operator

Red Bluff, CA ยท On-site

$35/hr

  • Medical

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 ...

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 ...

ASW Training Specialist

San Diego, CA

$76K - $103K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Proven expertise as a qualified SONAR Supervisor and Acoustic Sensor Operator-S (ASO-S) on AN/SQQ-89A(V)15 combat systems. Security clearance level: Must possess active Secret Clearance. US ...

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

Manager - Sensor Calibration

Foster City, CA ยท 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 ...

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 ...

Manager - Sensor Calibration

Foster City, CA ยท 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 ...

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

ASW Training Specialist

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$76K - $103K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... Sensor Operator (ASO), Active ASO, Surface Common Airborne Undersea Sensor System Functional Segment (SCFS), and Undersea Warfare Control Functional Segment (UCFS) watch stations. HOW AN ASW Training ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

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 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 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 do you become a sensor operator?

To become a sensor operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with technical training or certification in sensor systems, electronics, or related fields. Relevant skills include attention to detail, technical proficiency, and the ability to operate specialized equipment, often gained through on-the-job training or military experience.

How much do sensor operators make?

Sensor operators typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the industry they work in. Advanced skills, certifications, and working in specialized environments can lead to higher salaries.

What skills are needed to work with sensor operators?

Sensor operators need strong technical skills, including knowledge of sensor systems, data analysis, and troubleshooting. Attention to detail, the ability to monitor multiple data streams, and familiarity with relevant tools and software are essential. Good communication skills and the ability to work in a team environment are also important.

What are the most commonly searched types of Sensor Operator jobs in California?

The most popular types of Sensor Operator jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Sensor Operator jobs in California?

For Sensor Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities in California are hiring for Sensor Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Sensor Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Sensor Operator jobs in CA?

For Sensor Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Sensor Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 73% Full Time, 18% Contract, and 9% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

MQ-9 Sensor Operator

System Dynamics Intl

Palmdale, CA โ€ข On-site

$78.94 - $83.73/hr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

MQ-9 Sensor Operator

JOB SUMMARY

SDI is seeking MQ-9 LRE & MCE Qualified Instructor Sensor Operators to provide UAS Aircrew Support Services. These positions will be in Gray Butte, CA. Sensor Operators will perform duties as flight test crew members employing airborne sensors.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES


Test Planning and Execution
Review test plans, test cards, and other documentation for ground and flight test events and provide feedback to Flight Test Engineer (FTE) as required.
-Conduct operations and procedures in accordance with test plans. Assist pilot through all phases of employment to include test planning, flight operations, debriefings, and post-test analysis and reporting. Continually monitor aircraft and weapons systems status to ensure lethal and non-lethal application of airpower (if applicable). - Conduct tests and evaluate capabilities of new equipment and propriety of new procedures in accordance with established test cards, published flight manuals, checklists, technical orders, instructions, and other approved manuals as provided by the manufacturer.
- Attend and participate in Test Plan Working Groups (TPWGs), Technical Interchange Meetings (TIMs), Test Kickoff Meetings, Test Readiness Reviews (TRRs), Safety Review Boards (SRBs), and Technical Review Boards (TRBs).
- Conduct flight test missions IAW test cards of various onboard systems including, but not limited to: synthetic aperture radar, electro-optical, low-light, and infrared full-motion video imagery, and other active or passive acquisition and tracking systems.
Pre-flight Planning:
-Perform pre-flight and in-flight mission planning activities. Must understand tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) for planned test mission. Operate mission planning ancillary equipment to initialize information for download to airborne mission systems. Participate in post-flight debriefing to establish mission accomplishments and potential procedural development.
In-Flight/Post-Flight:
Assist in air navigation, fire control planning, and determining effective weapons control and delivery tactics to achieve overall mission objectives (as required).
- Receive and process target briefs for weapons delivery.
- Use laser target marking systems to provide target identification and illumination for onboard weapons delivery and in support of other combat assets.
- Conduct terminal weapons guidance.
- Submit T.O. change requests and Deficiency Reports (DR) identified during ground and flight test operations
Certification and Currency:
Ensure sensor operators follow procedures to obtain and maintain an Aircrew Qualification Certification.
- Research and study target imagery, friendly and enemy orders of battle, and offensive and defensive capabilities from various sources. Assemble target information, locate forces, and determine hostile intentions and possible tactics.
- Accurately track and accomplish currency requirements, including annual evaluations/training events, go/no-go Flight Crew Information File items, and safety briefings.
- Knowledgeable of aviation flight operations as well as instructional procedures and techniques.
- Ensures compliance with service guidance, company policy and procedures and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations.
- Responsible for observing all laws, regulations and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company.
- Expected to work in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.
Training:
Provide academic instruction to include basic sensor operation, basic ISR and Launch & Recovery operations.
- Provide support to develop and maintain aircrew training syllabus and training program as well as ground and flight operating procedures.
- Conduct initial, qualification, upgrade, and continuation training for mission crew members.
- Perform training, planning, standardization and evaluation, and other staff duty functions.
REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES


Must have active TS/SCI security clearance
Education Requirements: Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Mathematics, or Physics; or Master’s Degree in any engineering field; or BS Degree in a physical science – receiving a minimum GPA of 3.0
Current and qualified MQ-9 Instructor Sensor Operator requirements as follows:

- Sensor Operator III: MCE + LRE + INST/MAQ
- Sensor Operator IV: MCE + LRE + INST + SEFE/MAQ
- Sensor Operator IV: MCE + LRE + INST + SEFE + MAQ

Must possess/obtain FAA Class II Medical Certificate
Proficiency in the use of Microsoft Office products


OTHER INFORMATION
Travel may be required to other sites to support the contract effort.