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Sensor Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

TE Connectivity

$21/hr

Job Overview TE Connectivity's Assembly Operator II is responsible for assembling and testing ... As a trusted innovation partner, our broad range of connectivity and sensor solutions enable the ...

TE Connectivity

$21/hr

Job Overview TE Connectivity's Assembly Operator II is responsible for assembling and testing ... As a trusted innovation partner, our broad range of connectivity and sensor solutions enable the ...

Capstone Research Corporation

Senior Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$120K - $165K/yr

... sensor integration, and mission systems efforts for Department of War programs operating in complex, contested, and asymmetric warfare environments. The selected candidate will provide technical ...

Capstone Research Corporation

Senior Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$119K - $164K/yr

We have an immediate opening for a Senior Engineer to support advanced Command and Control (C2), sensor integration, and mission systems efforts for Department of War programs operating in complex ...

Nokia Federal Solutions Inc.

SIGINT Operator

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$140K - $155K/yr

Experience Demonstrated experience in remote targeting, sensor operations, and special operations. Strong recent experience in wireless communications. Demonstrated ability to work with a joint ...

GRVTY

Software Engineer, Senior

Herndon, VA · On-site +1

$126K - $166K/yr

You will work directly with scientists, sensor domain experts, and intelligence analysts ... Comfortable operating in both Windows and Linux environments, including secure or classified ...

GRVTY

Software Engineer, Senior

Herndon, VA · On-site

$126K - $166K/yr

You will work directly with scientists, sensor domain experts, and intelligence analysts ... Comfortable operating in both Windows and Linux environments, including secure or classified ...

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All JobsSensor Operator JobsSensor Operator Jobs in Virginia

Sensor Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$5

$14

$15

How much do sensor operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average hourly pay for sensor operator in Virginia is $14.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.52 and $15.43 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.
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Infographic showing various Sensor Operator job openings in Virginia as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 54% Full Time, 42% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,146 per year, or $15 per hour.

Software Engineer

Virginia Beach, VA • On-site

Check Defence LLC
See more jobs at Check Defence LLCexternal

Other

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Full-Time Equivalent (FTE)
Security Clearance: Active SECRET Clearance Required (TS/SCI Eligibility Required)
Position Status: Contingent Upon Contract Award, Start Date: 28 September 2026

Position Overview

Check Defense is a fast-growing federal contractor seeking a highly skilled Software Engineer to support the development, integration, deployment, testing, and sustainment of software solutions for unmanned systems and mission technologies. This position supports software development across flight systems, command-and-control applications, autonomous navigation, communications architectures, sensor integration, mission-planning systems, and embedded computing platforms.

The Software Engineer will work as part of a multidisciplinary team supporting Group 1 and Group 2 unmanned systems and associated mission payloads. The successful candidate will develop software for embedded devices, flight-control systems, ground-control stations, autonomous capabilities, communications networks, and operator interfaces while supporting the complete software lifecycle from concept development through field deployment and sustainment.

Duties and Responsibilities
  • Experience supporting Group 1/2 UxS software development, integration, testing, and mission support
  • Experience with commercially available UxS desirable
  • Proficient in C, C++, and object-oriented software development
  • Ability to deliver production software in agile environments
  • Expertise in autonomous navigation and path planning
  • Extensive knowledge of BetaFlight, ArduPilot, and PX4 (5 years)
  • Experience with sensor fusion techniques
  • Experience with QGroundControl
  • Experience with Qt/QML interface development
  • Familiarity with MAVLink protocol
  • Python scripting proficiency
  • Strong understanding of TCP/IP networking
  • Network troubleshooting experience
  • Ability to reverse-engineer complex codebases
  • CAD experience
  • Ability to build target software from source files.
Required Qualifications
  • US. Citizen.
  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Aerospace Engineering, or a related engineering or science discipline.
  • Minimum of three (3) years of hands-on software-development experience with a degree; or seven (7) years of relevant experience without a degree.
  • Recent software-development, integration, testing, or mission-support experience with Group 1 or Group 2 unmanned systems; relevant Group 3 experience may be considered.
  • Active SECRET Security Clearance with eligibility to obtain and maintain TS/SCI access.
  • Demonstrated experience developing software in C, C++, and Python.
  • Experience with embedded systems, software integration, and troubleshooting complex technical systems.
  • Experience with software testing methodologies, debugging tools, and configuration management.
  • Strong analytical, problem-solving, communication, and technical writing skills.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in fast-paced engineering and operational environments.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience with ArduPilot, PX4, BetaFlight, or other flight-control frameworks.
  • Experience with MAVLink communications and unmanned-system networking architectures.
  • Experience developing autonomous-navigation and path-planning software.
  • Experience with sensor integration, sensor fusion, and mission-payload integration.
  • Experience with QGroundControl, Qt, QML, or similar user-interface development tools.
  • Experience supporting military, Special Operations, intelligence, or defense-related unmanned systems programs.
  • Experience with embedded Linux environments and software deployment processes.
  • Familiarity with printed circuit board (PCB) integration and embedded computing devices.
  • Experience supporting flight testing, operational assessments, and fielding activities.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Software engineering principles and best practices
  • Object-oriented programming and software architecture
  • C, C++, and Python software development
  • Embedded systems and firmware integration
  • Autonomous navigation and flight-control systems
  • MAVLink communications and unmanned-system protocols
  • Sensor integration and sensor-fusion techniques
  • TCP/IP networking and communications troubleshooting
  • Ground-control software and mission-planning systems
  • Configuration management and software-release processes
  • Agile development methodologies
  • Test automation, verification, and validation
  • Technical documentation and reporting
  • Written and verbal communication skills
Physical Requirements

Candidates must be capable of:

  • Working in laboratory, office, integration, and field environments.
  • Operating computers, test equipment, embedded systems, and communications devices for extended periods.
  • Traveling domestically and internationally to support testing, demonstrations, exercises, deployments, and fielding activities.
  • Operating in outdoor environments and varying weather conditions during testing events.
  • Supporting occasional extended-duration field operations in austere environments.
  • Performing system setup, equipment integration, and troubleshooting activities during laboratory and field-testing operations.

Travel

  • CONUS and OCONUS travel may be required for testing, exercises, demonstrations, deployments, and fielding activities
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