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Sensor Operator Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Aerostat Operator 2

Pharr, TX

$14.25 - $18.75/hr

Much of our work contributes to innovative research in the fields of sensor science, signal ... Operator with specific experience in supporting aerostat operations to support aerostat systems ...

Aerostat Operator 2

TX · On-site

$14.25 - $18.75/hr

Much of our work contributes to innovative research in the fields of sensor science, signal ... Operator with specific experience in supporting aerostat operations to support aerostat systems ...

Aerostat Operator 2

Pharr, TX

$14.25 - $18.75/hr

Much of our work contributes to innovative research in the fields of sensor science, signal ... Operator with specific experience in supporting aerostat operations to support aerostat systems ...

Monitoring and Sensor Operations: The contractor shall monitor, identify, analyze, document, and ... Identifying, documenting and reporting outages or degradations of 16 AF operated systems

AI Engineer

Austin, TX

$220K - $270K/yr

The opportunity You'll help build what many consider a category-defining product: an "industrial operating system" that turns physical-world sensor data into operational decisions. This role is for ...

Create dynamic models of vehicle aerodynamics, propulsion, hardware, actuators, and sensor systems. * Design and develop guidance algorithms to deliver mission capability across a range of operating ...

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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 job makes $10,000 a month without a degree?

A sensor operator typically does not earn $10,000 a month without specialized training or experience. High-paying roles in fields like sales, real estate, or entrepreneurship can reach that level without a degree, but most technical jobs, including sensor operation, require relevant skills or certifications. Achieving such income often involves advanced skills, experience, or working in high-demand industries.

What jobs pay $6,000 a month?

Sensor operators and similar technical roles can earn around $6,000 per month, especially with experience, certifications, and working in specialized environments such as manufacturing, security, or industrial settings. Salaries vary based on location, industry, and level of expertise, with higher pay often associated with overtime or shift work.

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.

What do sensor operators do?

Sensor operators monitor and interpret data from various sensors and surveillance equipment to detect and track objects or activities. They often work in security, military, or industrial environments, using specialized tools and maintaining certifications to ensure accurate and timely responses.

How much does a sensor operator make?

Sensor operators typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. They often require technical skills and certifications related to sensor systems and data analysis, and may work in environments such as manufacturing, security, or military operations.
What are the most commonly searched types of Sensor Operator jobs in Texas? The most popular types of Sensor Operator jobs in Texas are:
What job categories do people searching Sensor Operator jobs in Texas look for? The top searched job categories for Sensor Operator jobs in Texas are:
What cities in Texas are hiring for Sensor Operator jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Sensor Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Sensor Operator jobs in TX? For Sensor Operator jobs in TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

GNC Engineer III (Navigation), Eclipse

Firefly Aerospace

Cedar Park, TX • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 2 days ago


Firefly Aerospace rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 9 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

27th of 60 rated aerospace companies


Job description

ABOUT FIREFLY AEROSPACE
Firefly Aerospace is a space and defense technology company that enables our world to launch, land, and operate in space - anywhere, anytime. As the partner of choice for critical space missions, Firefly is the only commercial company to launch a satellite to orbit with 24-hour notice and the only company to achieve a successful Moon landing. Our launch vehicles, lunar landers, and orbital vehicles provide government and commercial customers with full mission services from low Earth orbit to the Moon and beyond. Headquartered in north Austin, Texas, Firefly is looking for passionate, hardworking innovators to join our team and help fuel our successful trajectory into space.
SUMMARY
As a Senior GNC Engineer specializing in navigation and estimation at Firefly, you will design and implement navigation systems and state estimation algorithms for operational launch vehicles. In this role, you will develop and tune navigation filters and sensor fusion algorithms, support hardware-in-the-loop testing and system integration, and provide technical leadership while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. This position combines advanced estimation theory, real-time embedded systems development, and hands-on flight operations support while mentoring junior engineers in a fast-paced operational environment.
RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Design, analyze, and tune launch vehicle navigation software to ensure accurate state estimation from launch to orbit
  • Implement advanced filtering techniques using inertial sensor and GNSS measurements
  • Develop navigation systems robust to error sources including inertial sensor bias, GNSS signal degradation, noise, and sensor misalignments
  • Establish technical standards and validation methodologies for navigation system design, software development, and hardware-in-the-loop testing
  • Conduct covariance analysis, sensitivity studies, and performance optimization for navigation systems under nominal and off-nominal flight conditions
  • Support hardware-in-the-loop test campaigns for integrated GNC systems including navigation algorithm validation, flight software verification, and system-level performance testing
  • Drive resolution of complex GNC challenges requiring deep technical expertise and rapid problem-solving
  • Provide technical direction on system architecture and serve as subject matter expert for launch vehicle state estimation
  • Mentor junior engineers in estimation theory and flight software development
  • Author technical documentation and analysis reports that communicate GNC concepts and results to diverse audiences
  • Interface with cross-discipline teams to integrate navigation software with vehicle hardware
  • Serve as a GNC console operator for launch operations and perform post-flight analysis to improve vehicle models
  • Champion continuous improvement initiatives for GNC processes, tools, and operational efficiency
QUALIFICATIONSRequired
  • Bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, or related field
  • 5-10 years of experience in launch vehicle GNC systems with significant depth in navigation system design or flight software development
  • Advanced knowledge of state estimation techniques including Kalman filtering, sensor fusion, and covariance analysis
  • Strong understanding of inertial navigation systems, GNSS processing, and navigation sensor error modeling
  • Expertise in real-time software development using C++ for flight-critical applications
  • Experience developing high-fidelity sensor models and navigation system testbeds
  • Proficiency in hardware-in-the-loop testing and requirement verification for flight-critical systems
  • Understanding of software development best practices including version control (Git), code documentation, and testing
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills
Desired
  • Master's degree or PhD in aerospace engineering, electrical engineering, applied mathematics, or related field
  • Experience developing custom navigation or state estimation algorithms for launch vehicle applications
  • Expertise in advanced filtering techniques such as unscented Kalman filters, particle filters, or adaptive estimation methods
  • Hands-on experience with launch vehicle sensor systems including fiber optic gyros, ring laser gyros, MEMS IMUs, and GNSS receivers
  • Advanced knowledge of launch vehicle flight mechanics and high-fidelity modeling of gravity, aerodynamics, and propulsion
  • Advanced knowledge of attitude dynamics and control theory, including rotational dynamics, attitude representations, control moment generation, and stability analysis
  • Experience with modern flight software frameworks and real-time operating systems
  • Software engineering expertise with proficiency in development practices including version control, code review, testing, documentation, and CI/CD workflows
  • Proficiency in Python for scripting, data analysis, and automation
  • Working knowledge of launch vehicle systems and mission operations
  • Proven ability to develop junior engineers while managing technical responsibilities
  • Track record of thought leadership through publications, presentations, or contributions to industry state-of-the-art

Firefly offers outstanding benefits for our employees, including generous health, dental and vision plans with low plan deductibles, parental leave, educational reimbursement, short term disability, and flexible PTO options.
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
Firefly Aerospace, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with Firefly is governed based on merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.