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Sensor Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

General Atomics

Test Sensor Operator IV

Adelanto, CA · On-site

$98.10K - $171.40K/yr

We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Test Sensor Operator to join our team in Adelanto, California (El Mirage). With limited direction, this position is responsible for serving as a ...

General Atomics

Test Sensor Operator II

Adelanto, CA · On-site

$81.08K - $141.65K/yr

We have an exciting opportunity for a Test Sensor Operator to join our team in Adelanto, California (El Mirage). Under general supervision and regular review, this position is responsible for serving ...

General Atomics

Test Sensor Operator III

Palmdale, CA · On-site

$89.18K - $155.83K/yr

Under general supervision with limited review, this position is responsible for serving as a Sensor Operator and performing additional duties similar to those of a co-pilot/Second in Command for ...

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 ...

Apple

Health Sensor Engineer

Cupertino, CA

$126.80K - $220.90K/yr

... of operating conditions, user variability, and ambient conditions. Description The team you will ... Experience with sensor interfacing, signal conditioning, and signal-to-noise analysis. Familiarity ...

Apple

Health Sensor Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

We are looking for a sensor engineer with a desire to innovate in the space of optical sensors and ... operating conditions, user variability, and ambient conditions. The team you will join is ...

Apple

Health Sensor Engineer

Cupertino, CA · On-site

We are looking for a sensor engineer with a desire to innovate in the space of optical sensors and ... operating conditions, user variability, and ambient conditions. The team you will join is ...

Apple

Health Sensor Engineer

Cupertino, CA

$181.10K - $272.10K/yr

Use simulation infrastructure to predict system/user performance across a range of operating ... Experience with sensor interfacing, signal conditioning, and signal-to-noise analysis. Familiarity ...

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.

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Sensor Operator information

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 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 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:
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:
Sensor Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sensor Operator job openings in California as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Test Sensor Operator IV

Test Sensor Operator IV

General Atomics

Adelanto, CA • On-site

$98.10K - $171.40K/yr

Full-time

Posted 28 days ago

General Atomics rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 34 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

8th of 59 rated aerospace companies

Job description

Job Summary
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), an affiliate of General Atomics, is a world leader in proven, reliable remotely piloted aircraft and tactical reconnaissance radars, as well as advanced high-resolution surveillance systems.
We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Test Sensor Operator to join our team in Adelanto, California (El Mirage).
With limited direction, this position is responsible for serving as a Sensor Operator and performing additional duties similar to those of a co-pilot/Second in Command for company aircraft during test, production, and demonstration flights. Acts as subject matter expert for all aspects of the company's family of Aircraft Systems, including aircraft hardware/software, ground control station systems, and operational/experimental ground and flight testing. This role requires close collaboration with Test Aircrew, Flight Test Engineers, Project Engineers, and company management to support the development and employment of new aircraft and flight system technologies.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Serve as a senior Sensor Operator, leading complex tests, production, and demonstration flights for company aircraft.
  • Operate advanced sensor systems and collaborate with UAV pilots to optimize flight paths and sensor positioning.
  • Manage multiple, concurrent test projects, and may coordinate cross functional teams to ensure project success.
  • Provide technical expertise in project meetings and develop test plans and schedules.
  • May perform duties as Instructor Sensor Operator (ISO), developing advanced training materials and mentoring trainees.
  • May perform duties as Evaluator Sensor Operator (ESO), testing trainees on their knowledge and skills, ensuring they meet competency standards.
  • Consult engineering and senior management on system upgrades and procedures.
  • Consult with Test Pilots and Flight Test Engineers to develop and execute test plans, test cards, test schedules, mission execution, mission briefs, and debriefs.
  • Consult with engineering teams and senior/executive management as subject matter expert to develop company product line of aircraft platforms, procedures, upgrades, and features.
  • Consult with other senior aircrew, management and customers to ensure alignment of standardized flight procedures across company locations, including deployment locations.
  • Develop and approve procedures for use with high-risk test events, new aircraft features, and upgraded aircraft platforms.
  • Ensure compliance with Federal Aviation Administration guidelines and company procedures
  • Perform duties at all company aircraft facilities as required.
  • Perform other duties as assigned or required.

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 education al training equivalent to and bachelor's degree and eight or more years of progressively complex aviation experience, with 5 years flight test experience. Equivalent professional aviation experience may be substituted in lieu of education.
  • Must have a strong aviation background and demonstrate a complete and detailed understanding of technical principles, theories, and concepts.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Security Clearance is required.
  • 2,500+ hours of company aircraft flight time and a current MCE+LRE qualification
  • Experience operating EO/IR payloads (AN/DAS-1, AN/DAS-4, or MX-20
  • Experience operating Lynx SAR
  • Must possess:
    • Strong analytical, communication, documentation, presentation, organizational, and interpersonal skills to enable an effective interface with other departments, all levels of management, professional and support staff, customers, potential customers, and government representatives.
    • Ability to effectively interface with all levels of employees, as well as military and civilian customers.

What General Atomics employees say

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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

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