ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Sensor Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

previous page

Showing results 41-60

All JobsSensor Operator JobsSensor Operator Jobs in California

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 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.

How to 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 experience with monitoring equipment or software; some roles may require security clearances or specialized certifications. On-the-job training is common, and familiarity with safety protocols and operational procedures is important.
More about Sensor Operator jobs

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Robotics Software Engineer, Sensor Integration

Slope

Costa Mesa, CA • On-site

$191 - $253/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Anduril Industries is a defense technology company with a mission to transform U.S. and allied military capabilities with advanced technology. By bringing the expertise, technology, and business model of the 21st century’s most innovative companies to the defense industry, Anduril is changing how military systems are designed, built and sold. Anduril’s family of systems is powered by Lattice OS, an AI-powered operating system that turns thousands of data streams into a realtime, 3D command and control center. As the world enters an era of strategic competition, Anduril is committed to bringing cutting-edge autonomy, AI, computer vision, sensor fusion, and networking technology to the military in months, not years.

About the Job

We are seeking a Robotics Software Engineer with expertise in C++ and Rust to join our team. In this role, you will design, develop, and optimize software solutions for autonomous robotic systems, focusing on sensor integration, networking, and multi-agent coordination. You will work on interdisciplinary challenges, collaborate across teams, and deploy critical software in real-world environments.

If you thrive in a fast-paced environment, enjoy solving complex problems, and are passionate about creating impactful robotics systems, this opportunity is for you.

What You’ll Do
  • Develop Mission-Critical Software: Engineer scalable and robust solutions for networking, sensor integration, and autonomy across robotic platforms.
  • Sensor Integration: Work with a variety of sensors (e.g., cameras, LiDAR, IMUs) to enable perception, localization, and navigation.
  • Networking Systems: Design and optimize distributed communication networks and message-passing frameworks for multi-robot coordination.
  • Collaborate Cross-Functionally: Partner with hardware, systems, and manufacturing teams to seamlessly integrate software into physical systems.
  • Real-World Deployment: Travel up to 25% to test, debug, and deploy systems in operational environments.
  • Iterative Development: Contribute to the entire software lifecycle, including prototyping, implementation, testing, and deployment.
  • Optimize Performance: Enhance system efficiency, such as improving latency, battery consumption, and resource utilization.
  • Troubleshoot and Debug: Analyze and resolve issues in deployed systems, ensuring reliability and operational success.
Required Qualifications
  • Technical Expertise: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Robotics, Computer Science, Software Engineering, Mathematics, or Physics.
  • C++ and Rust Proficiency: 2+ years of hands‑on experience developing production‑grade software in C++ and/or Rust.
  • Networking Knowledge: Experience with distributed communication networks, protocols, and message standards.
  • Sensor Integration: Proven ability to work with and integrate sensors (e.g., LiDAR, cameras, IMUs) into robotics systems.
  • Systems-Level Thinking: Ability to navigate and contribute to complex systems and established codebases.
  • Real-World Impact: Passion for building software that directly influences mission‑critical outcomes.
  • Travel Flexibility: Willingness to travel up to 25% to test and deploy systems.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Advanced Robotics: Experience with motion planning, perception, localization, and multi-agent coordination.
  • Simulation Expertise: Proficiency in designing Software-in-the-Loop (SIL) simulation environments.
  • Hardware Integration: Experience working with embedded systems and physical devices.
  • Performance Optimization: Familiarity with metrics and optimization techniques for robotics systems.
  • Programming Skills: Additional experience with Python, and/or real-time operating systems.
  • Machine Learning: Knowledge of AI/ML applications in robotics.
  • Security Clearance: Active or prior U.S. Secret clearance is a plus.
Salary Range

US Salary Range: $191,000—$253,000 USD

The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offer may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and/or training, critical skills, and/or business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in the majority of full time offers; and are considered part of Anduril's total compensation package. Additionally, Anduril offers top-tier benefits for full-time employees, including:

Healthcare Benefits
  • US Roles: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans at little to no cost to you.
  • UK & AUS Roles: We cover full cost of medical insurance premiums for you and your dependents.
  • IE Roles: We offer an annual contribution toward your private health insurance for you and your dependents.
Additional Benefits
  • Income Protection: Anduril covers life and disability insurance for all employees.
  • Generous time off: Highly competitive PTO plans with a holiday hiatus in December. Caregiver & Wellness Leave is available to care for family members, bond with a new baby, or address your own medical needs.
  • Family Planning & Parenting Support: Coverage for fertility treatments (e.g., IVF, preservation), adoption, and gestational carriers, along with resources to support you and your partner from planning to parenting.
  • Mental Health Resources: Access free mental health resources 24/7, including therapy and life coaching. Additional work‑life services, such as legal and financial support, are also available.
  • Professional Development: Annual reimbursement for professional development.
  • Commuter Benefits: Company‑funded commuter benefits based on your region.
  • Relocation Assistance: Available depending on role eligibility.
Retirement Savings Plan
  • US Roles: Traditional 401(k), Roth, and after-tax (mega backdoor Roth) options.
  • UK & IE Roles: Pension plan with employer match.
  • AUS Roles: Superannuation plan.
#J-18808-Ljbffr

Apply