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Sensor Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

Performs duties of boiler plant operator on rotating shifts unsupervised when needed. This is a ... Preventative maintenance, sensor replacement, neutralization kits, heat exchanger cleaning will be ...

Support Flex Associate - Turkey Creek

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

Complete sensor tag application, product transfers, damage processing, and RFID tasks to support ... Comfortable with technology, including smartphones, tablet computers and Windows-based operating ...

Irrigation Technician

Franklin, TN · On-site

$18 - $35/hr

Install High-tech sensor and flow sensing installation LEARNING ON THE JOB * Work independently ... This franchise is independently owned and operated by a franchisee. Your application will go ...

Support Flex Associate

Dickson, TN · On-site

$15 - $19.25/hr

Complete sensor tag application, product transfers, damage processing, and RFID tasks to support ... Comfortable with technology, including smartphones, tablet computers and Windows-based operating ...

Team Leadership & Development • Lead, coach, and develop molding operators, technicians, and ... As a trusted innovation partner, our broad range of connectivity and sensor solutions enable the ...

Electro Mechanical Tech III

Oak Ridge, TN

$23.75 - $30/hr

Helps train and instruct production operators in the use of automation. Applies mechanical ... May be required to possess advanced knowledge of pneumatics, hydraulics, motion control, sensor ...

... sensor values through NI hardware (cRIO and PXI), streaming data to Redis for real-time GUIs, and storing data in Kafka for long-term analysis. Control room tasks involve building operator interfaces ...

Controls Software Engineer

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$41.25 - $52.50/hr

... enhancing operator functionality and the minimization of equipment downtime. Uses structured ... Proficient at interfacing software with the control and data acquisition from sensor, including ...

Showing results 41-60

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 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 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.

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 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.
What are popular job titles related to Sensor Operator jobs in Tennessee? For Sensor Operator jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Sensor Operator jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Sensor Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Sensor Operator jobs in TN? For Sensor Operator jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Sensor Operator job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 12% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution.

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Oak Ridge National Laboratory rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

14th of 120 rated laboratories


Job description

Requisition Id 16661 

Overview:
The System Engineering Group within the Nuclear Facility Management Section of the Nonreactor Nuclear Facilities Division (NNFD) is seeking to hire an Instrumentation and Controls System Engineer.

This group is responsible for the NNFD facility’s configuration management program, provides technical support to operations and maintenance, and performs system performance analysis. The role designs, develops, installs, upgrades, and maintains instrumentation and control systems and components. Much of the legacy instrumentation is analog pneumatic (3–15 psig)using instrument air to drive pneumatic actuators and pneumatic or electro-pneumatic valve/damper positioners (e.g., 4-20 mA to I/P transducer). The engineer also performs instrument loop uncertainty analyses and setpoint calculations to support operability, safety basis, and setpoint determinations. The primary objective is to ensure facility systems operate effectively, efficiently, and safely in compliance with applicable codes and nuclear quality requirements. Many of the nuclear-safety-credited I&C components control building ventilation systems.

This role requires a thorough understanding of the operational processes in a multidisciplinary role and working closely with a variety of colleagues in operations, procurement, design, and craft organizations. The person in this role may also be expected to support NEC compliance reviews and coordinate NRTL field evaluations/labeling as needed.

Major Duties and Responsibilities:

Configuration Management

  • Prepares engineering designs for replacement and upgrade of structures, systems, and components
  • Performs calculations and interpretations of industry codes and standards to support design development
  • Reviews design specifications to determine performance criteria for material upgrades
  • Writes material specifications and initiates procurement of nuclear safety-related components
  • Prepares and implements rigorous testing and inspection methods for utilizing commercial grade components in nuclear safety systems
  • Implements modifications in accordance with configuration control processes
  • Designs and develops new control systems
  • Develops design output documents

Maintenance Support

  • Troubleshoots and analyzes system and component failures and develops corrective actions
  • Provides field work technical direction to craft supervisors and craft personnel
  • Develops and implements preventive maintenance instructions
  • Develops operating/test procedures
  • Performs and maintains the aging status of I&C components (instrumentation, control panels, PLCs, field devices, actuators, etc.) on a continual basis
  • Maintains the maintenance equipment database for new and existing I&C equipment

Operations Support

  • Performs evaluations to determine equipment impact on facility operation
  • Provides guidance on purchase, fabrication, and/or modification of electrical equipment to meet NRTL listing/labeling requirements and electrical AHJ approval prior to use
  • Acquires and maintains the ‘Qualified Electrical Worker’ role (for access to areas where instrumentation may present the possibility for exposure to energized electrical components) as needed to support I&C installation/maintenance activities
  • Assists with the development of research safety summaries, work plans, procedures, instructions, and other documents; approves these documents as requested by line management
  • Reviews and approves work activities or safety procedures related to custom or special research equipment

System Analysis

  • Analyzes and trends results of preventive and predictive maintenance data
  • Analyzes equipment performance history
  • Ensures compliance with environment, safety, health, and quality program requirements

Basic Qualifications:

  • BS degree in Electrical Engineering, Controls, Mechanical, Chemical, or related with I&C experience.
  • 5-8 years of experience in industrial/nuclear instrumentation and controls system engineering
  • Ability to diagnose equipment problems and develop formal instructions for performance and documentation of repairs.
  • Experience in leading maintenance tasks, procedure development, procurement of materials, and equipment analysis is required.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • One year or more of nuclear experience is highly preferred. Familiarity with maintenance activities in a nuclear operating environment and regulatory programs, including DOE Orders pertaining to conduct of operation and maintenance
  • Experience with design/procurement of components according to NQA-1 requirements
  • Experience with preparation of loop accuracy/uncertainty (sensor+transmitter+signal conditioning+display), setpoint uncertainty for safety limits, and calibration tolerances/as-found/as-left impacts
  • Experience programming, testing, and troubleshooting industrial PLC-based control systems (e.g., ladder logic/function block), including I/O checkout, field commissioning, and controlled changes to existing PLC logic in support of facility operations (ventilation/HVAC controls preferred)
  • This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain an “L” clearance. This position also requires Rad Worker II training as well as respirator qualification. Therefore, candidate must be medically qualified for Rad Worker and respirator
  • Experience with legacy pneumatic instrumentation and pneumatically actuated control valves/dampers
  • Experience working with SCADA/Historian data logging software is a plus
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Good interpersonal skills, and ability to work well as a team member
  • Motivated self-starter with the ability to work independently and to participate creatively in collaborative teams across the laboratory.
  • Ability to function well in a fast-paced research environment, set priorities to accomplish multiple tasks within deadlines, and adapt to ever changing needs.

Special Requirements:

  • Visa sponsorship: Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
  • L Clearance: This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a clearance from the Department of Energy. As such, this position is a Workplace Substance Abuse (WSAP) testing designated position. WSAP positions require passing a pre-placement drug test and participation in an ongoing random drug testing program.

Relocation:

Moving can be overwhelming and expensive. UT-Battelle offers a generous relocation package to ease the transition process. Domestic and international relocation assistance is available for certain positions. If invited to interview, be sure to ask your Recruiter (Talent Acquisition Partner) for details.

About ORNL:

As a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Office of Science national laboratory, ORNL has an impressive 80-year legacy of addressing the nation’s most pressing challenges. Our team is made up of over 7,000 dedicated and innovative individuals! Our goal is to create an environment where a variety of perspectives and backgrounds are valued, ensuring ORNL is known as a top choice for employment. These principles are essential for supporting our broader mission to drive scientific breakthroughs and translate them into solutions for energy, environmental, and security challenges facing the nation.

ORNL offers competitive pay and benefits programs to attract and retain individuals who demonstrate exceptional work behaviors. The laboratory provides a range of employee benefits, including medical and retirement plans and flexible work hours, to support the well-being of you and your family. Employee amenities such as on-site fitness, banking, and cafeteria facilities are also available for added convenience.

Other benefits include the following: Prescription Drug Plan, Dental Plan, Vision Plan, 401(k) Retirement Plan, Contributory Pension Plan, Life Insurance, Disability Benefits, Generous Vacation and Holidays, Parental Leave, Legal Insurance with Identity Theft Protection, Employee Assistance Plan, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Wellness Programs, Educational Assistance, Relocation Assistance, and Employee Discounts.

If you have difficulty using the online application system or need an accommodation to apply due to a disability, please email: ORNLRecruiting@ornl.gov.

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This position will remain open for a minimum of 5 days after which it will close when a qualified candidate is identified and/or hired.

We accept Word (.doc, .docx), Adobe (unsecured .pdf), Rich Text Format (.rtf), and HTML (.htm, .html) up to 5MB in size. Resumes from third party vendors will not be accepted; these resumes will be deleted and the candidates submitted will not be considered for employment.

ORNL is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants, including individuals with disabilities and protected veterans, are encouraged to apply.  UT-Battelle is an E-Verify employer.


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