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Sensor Operator Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Sensor Integration Engineer

Reston, VA ยท On-site

$110 - $160/hr

Common Operating Picture (COP) Platforms * Multi-Sensor Fusion * Systems Integration & Interoperability * Active Army Installation or DoD Depot Operations * Ability to simplify complex technical ...

Commercial Plumbing Technician

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$26.25 - $33.75/hr

The ideal candidate has strong troubleshooting skills and experience working with leak detection, sensor-operated fixtures, grease traps, temperature control systems, and commercial water heaters. We ...

Commercial Plumbing Technician

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$26.25 - $33.75/hr

The ideal candidate has strong troubleshooting skills and experience working with leak detection, sensor-operated fixtures, grease traps, temperature control systems, and commercial water heaters. We ...

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Sensor Operator information

See Washington salary details

$5

$18

How much do sensor operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for sensor operator in Washington is $17.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.49 and $17.55 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 Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,379 per year, or $17 per hour.

Sensor Payload Operator/Technician

Arlington, VA โ€ข On-site

$20.75 - $27.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

This job post hasย expired today.ย Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

TSC has immediate openings for Sensor Payload Operators and Technicians to conduct maritime surveillance missions on manned aircraft for civil fisheries enforcement across locations in the Western and Central Pacific. Missions are executed in accordance with air tasking orders, with TSC providing mission differences training. These roles involve daily extended overwater surveillance at various altitudes, including low-level overwater maneuvers, using a civilian-registered King Air aircraft.

As a Sensor Payload Operator or Technician, you will be responsible for locating, identifying, and reporting intelligence on maritime targets. You will be expected to leverage pre-mission reporting and mission planning in conjunction with all available platform sensors including AIS, Radar, and EO/IR gimbal to accomplish surveillance missions. Preference will be given to candidates with technical expertise and hands-on experience in the testing, troubleshooting, and maintenance of airborne sensor payload systems. This position requires rotational assignments of three months or longer, subject to mutual agreement. TSC offers meals and lodging allowance.

Responsibilities:

  • Operate aircraft sensor payloads during surveillance missions, including detecting, locating, and identifying maritime targets, and support real-time communication with the crew and ground personnel to ensure mission success.
  • Prepare detailed written reports on mission observations, complete post-mission equipment performance reports, and maintain clear communication with crew and ground personnel.
  • Conduct maintenance and troubleshooting of airborne sensor payload systems in accordance with TSC Maintenance SOP and Manufacturer/OEM guidelines, assisting ISR Systems Engineers as needed.
  • Actively participate in both aviation and non-aviation roles within the deployed team, including delivering program capability briefings to local officials and supporting integration activities for sensor systems.
  • Perform additional related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

  • Four (4) or more years of relevant military training/qualification and operational experience.
  • Operational experience working with new technology, and controlling a family of systems to include AIS, Radar, and EO/IR Gimbals simultaneously.
  • Valid US Passport through deployment periods
  • Ability to maintain the physical conditioning necessary to perform mission-critical tasks, including lifting, prolonged standing, or endurance activities as applicable. Reasonable accommodations will be provided as required by law.
  • Ability to travel with reasonable notice for assignments lasting up to three months
  • Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English to effectively perform job duties and ensure clear communication in for purposes of safety protocols, team coordination, reporting, etc.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to maintain good working relationships with the tasking authority, local officials, customer on-site representatives, and crew members
  • Experience in combined overland and overwater surveillance and international operations
  • Technical knowledge and practical experience in Operational and/or Developmental Test, troubleshooting and maintenance of airborne sensor payload systems
  • Ability to provide strong professional references as requested

TSC Benefits:

TSC offers a stable work environment, a competitive salary, and a comprehensive benefit package; including Employee Stock Option Plan (ESOP) participation, 401k Plan, Flexible Work Schedules, Tuition Reimbursement, Co-Sponsored Health Plan, Paid Leave and much more. TSC is a growing organization with unlimited opportunity!

Applying to TSC:

Only those candidates invited for an interview will be contacted. Employment at TSC is contingent upon the successful completion of a comprehensive background check, verification of Security Clearance, and a drug screening.

This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-1.4(a), 60-300.5(a) and 60-741.5(a). These regulations prohibit discrimination against qualified individuals based on their status as protected veterans or individuals with disabilities, and prohibit discrimination against all individuals based on their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or for inquiring about, discussing, or disclosing information about compensation. Moreover, these regulations require that covered prime contractors and subcontractors take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment individuals without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.