ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Sensor Operator Jobs in New Mexico (NOW HIRING)

Pae

Aerostat Operator II

Deming, NM · On-site

$34.39/hr

Aerostat Operators provide Operations and Sustainment (O&S) support for the Persistent Surveillance ... MMP), Sensor Payload(s), communications and navigation systems as well as associated support ...

ChampionX

Regional Sales Manager

Hobbs, NM · On-site

Maintain expert level of product and application knowledge within the battery-operated wireless sensor market * Meet sales goal targets monthly, quarterly, and yearly * Actively manage channel ...

ChampionX

Regional Sales Manager

Hobbs, NM

Maintain expert level of product and application knowledge within the battery-operated wireless sensor market * Meet sales goal targets monthly, quarterly, and yearly * Actively manage channel ...

SCEYE INC

Data Analyst

Moriarty, NM · On-site

$85K - $110K/yr

... operators, climate researchers, civil and defense agencies. At Sceye, we aim high, and we want you ... This role will work with telemetry, sensor, and operational data generated by our stratospheric ...

SCEYE INC

Lead Payload Systems Engineer

Moriarty, NM · On-site

$140K - $185K/yr

... operators, climate researchers, civil and defense agencies. At Sceye, we aim high, and we want you ... sensor or communications payloads into complex flight systems. Lead Payload Systems Engineer will ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSensor Operator JobsSensor Operator Jobs in New Mexico

Sensor Operator information

See New Mexico salary details

$4

$14

$15

How much do sensor operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average hourly pay for sensor operator in New Mexico is $14.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.89 and $14.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 New Mexico?

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

What job categories do people searching Sensor Operator jobs in New Mexico look for?

The top searched job categories for Sensor Operator jobs in New Mexico are:

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

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

Sensor Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sensor Operator job openings in New Mexico as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 51% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $29,828 per year, or $14.3 per hour.

Aerostat Operator II

Pae

Deming, NM • On-site

$34.39/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Aerostat Operators provide Operations and Sustainment (O&S) support for the Persistent Surveillance Systems - Tethered (PSS-T) program. PSS-T is comprised of former Persistent Ground Surveillance System (PGSS) and Persistent Threat Detection System (PTDS) programs.

Essential Responsibilities:

  • Aerostat Operators/User-level maintainers will participate in the overall, hands-on operation of the aerostat system including launch, in-flight, recovery, and moored activities.
  • Candidates will perform all functions to operate the PGSS/PTDS, an aerostat mounted Intelligence, Surveillance, And Reconnaissance (ISR) platform, its Mobile Mooring Platform (MMP), Sensor Payload(s), communications and navigation systems as well as associated support equipment (Boom Lift, Forklift, All Terrain Vehicles (ATV's), and Electrical Power Generators).
  • Candidate will perform User-level maintenance functions include performing hands-on Preventative Maintenance Checks and Services (PMCS), troubleshooting, removing and replacing Line Replaceable Units (LRUs), and removing and replacing payloads.
  • Candidate must possess a diverse range of skills with the ability to quickly adapt to new situations. Tasks will be performed under direction of higher classified technicians and/or site personnel.

Minimum Requirements:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
  • A two-year Associate's degree in a technical field from an accredited college can substitute for work experience.
  • Must have an active Secret US Government Clearance. Note: US Citizenship is required to obtain a Secret Clearance.
  • Must have a valid Driver's License.
  • Must have a passport that is valid for at least 6-months; preferably one year.
  • Knowledge of and experience in the operations of hardware systems and components.
  • Experience in fault detection, isolation, and correction of hardware systems and individual components.
  • Ability to perform routine system maintenance and analysis functions including: hardware configurations; adding, removing and replacing hardware components; use of hardware and software diagnostic testing tools; reading of electronic circuit schematics; and repairing printed circuit boards.
  • At least one (1) year previous Aerostat experience

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Prior experience on both 74k and 22m Aerostat systems.
  • Prior training/certification from Yuma

Service Contract Act (SCA) Compensation & Benefits:

This is an hourly, overtime-eligible position that falls under the Service Contract Act (SCA). In accordance with the Health and Welfare provisions of the SCA, and in addition to your base hourly rate, you may be eligible to receive an additional health and welfare payment for each hour you work to ensure compliance with the minimums set forth by the act. The amount you are entitled to receive will vary depending upon the fringe benefits you select now and in the future.

Compensation Details:

$34.39

The compensation range or hourly rate listed for this position is provided as a good-faith estimate of what the company intends to offer for this role at the time this posting was issued. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as job responsibilities, education, experience, skills, internal equity, market data, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and relevant laws.

Benefits Overview:

Our health and welfare benefits are designed to support you and your priorities. Offerings include:

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance

  • Paid time off and holidays

  • Retirement benefits (including 401(k) matching)

  • Educational reimbursement

  • Parental leave

  • Employee stock purchase plan

  • Tax-saving options

  • Disability and life insurance

  • Pet insurance

Note: Benefits may vary based on employment type, location, and applicable agreements. Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract Act (SCA), or other employment contracts may include different provisions/benefits.

Original Posting:

08/18/2026 - Until Filled

Amentum anticipates this job requisition will remain open for at least three days, with a closing date no earlier than three days after the original posting. This timeline may change based on business needs.

Amentum is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our hiring practices provide equal opportunity for employment without regard to race, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding), age, ancestry, United States military or veteran status, color, religion, creed, marital or domestic partner status, medical condition, genetic information, national origin, citizenship status, low-income status, or mental or physical disability so long as the essential functions of the job can be performed with or without reasonable accommodation, or any other protected category under federal, state, or local law. Learn more about your rights under Federal laws and supplemental language atLabor Laws Posters.

Apply