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Sensor Operator Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Joseph J Magnolia

Commercial Plumbing Technician

Washington, DC · 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 ...

Leidos

Payload Operator

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$92K - $166K/yr

Leidos is looking for a Payload Operator who currently possesses a TS/SCI and has the ability to ... This is a hands-on, direct command and control of a high priority intelligence collection sensor.

Leidos

Payload Operator

Chantilly, VA

$92K - $166K/yr

Leidos is looking for a Payload Operator who currently possesses a TS/SCI and has the ability to ... This is a hands-on, direct command and control of a high priority intelligence collection sensor.

Cadre

Technical SIGINT Operator

Tysons, VA · On-site

Key Role: Serve as a technical SIGINT operator delivering direct, mission-critical collection ... sensor tasking • Strong knowledge of SIGINT collection equipment and associated tooling (e.g ...

Cadre

Technical SIGINT Operator

Mclean, VA

Key Role: Serve as a technical SIGINT operator delivering direct, mission-critical collection ... sensor tasking • Strong knowledge of SIGINT collection equipment and associated tooling (e.g ...

Cadre

Technical SIGINT Operator

Mclean, VA · On-site

Key Role: Serve as a technical SIGINT operator delivering direct, mission-critical collection ... sensor tasking • Strong knowledge of SIGINT collection equipment and associated tooling (e.g ...

Opus Inspection

RSD Operator

Lorton, VA · On-site

$22/hr

Daily set up, operation and break down of a remote on-road motor vehicle emissions sensor * Work long hours in a mobile unit without a break room * Compile and deliver collected emissions data ...

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Sensor Operator information

See Washington salary details

$5

$18

How much do sensor operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 28, 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 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.
More about Sensor Operator jobs
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What cities in Washington are hiring for Sensor Operator jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Sensor Operator job openings:
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Sensor Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sensor Operator job openings in Washington as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 89% In-person, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,379 per year, or $17 per hour.
Senior Geospatial Analyst - SkillBridge Exclusive Opportunity

Senior Geospatial Analyst - SkillBridge Exclusive Opportunity

Dewberry

Fairfax, VA • On-site

$87K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Posted 18 hours ago

Dewberry rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 15 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description


Dewberry is currently seeking a Senior Geospatial Analyst in our Tampa, FL or Fairfax, VA office. This is an excellent career opportunity for an individual to join a team of professionals while working in a multidisciplinary consulting and engineering firm. The firm succeeds through the individual and collaborative skills of its people therefore we offer opportunities for professional growth while working with and applying the latest technology. Typical responsibilities are to work on the GIS/IT and Remote Sensing related projects for state and federal clients across the US. Responsibilities include creating and reviewing script/macro development, training, production, QC, and process improvement (innovation) for the Product Line.
Remote positions will be considered, dependent on experience.
Dewberry is a leading, market-facing professional services firm with more than 50 locations and 2,000 professionals nationwide. What sets us apart from our competitors are our people. At Dewberry, we seek out exceptional talent and strive to deliver the highest quality of services to our clients. Whether you're an experienced professional or a new graduate, you'll have the chance to collaborate with the best and brightest and work on innovative and complex projects at the forefront of the industry. Our commitment to excellence stems from our personal integrity and from other defining attributes, which we call "Dewberry at Work," that have inspired our employees to be successful for more than a half-century.
Don't meet every single requirement? At Dewberry we are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive workplace for our employees. We recognize that every military career is unique, so if you're excited about this role, but your experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification in the position description, we encourage you to apply anyways. You may just be the right candidate for this or other opportunities.
Responsibilities
Primary Responsibilities of this position include, but are not limited to:
  • Creating Scripts/Models/Macros for multiple sensor platforms
  • Work with the Product Line Lead to assist in the execution of projects, on time and within budget.
  • Data Management and Handling: Planning and monitoring production data, management needs and working with IT and Operations to ensure adequate resources are available; Ensuring data management protocols are met including the use of proper files and formats as well as file locations, storage, and backups.
  • Perform work that appropriately follows all quality control steps and practices are implemented throughout processes to ensure deliverables meet client specifications.
  • Provide feedback and support for developing and/or updating SOPs as necessary.
  • Works with production staff to support process improvements; working with other Technology/Process Improvement teams to review best practices to enhance product line, gain efficiencies, and improve quality.
  • Support improvements to automation of the production and QC process through providing technical guidance and ideas
  • Multi-sensor processing, manipulation, and production.
  • The ability to analyze point clouds and various geospatial data layers derived from point cloud data.
  • Proficiency in basic computer applications, especially MS Office (Word, Excel, and Access).

Beneficial Skills or Experiences:
  • Formal Education in a Surveying/Geomatics/GIS or related field desired
  • Ability to attend and speak at conferences, communicate with business partners for future opportunities.
  • Project Manager experience or certification
  • Working experience with Terrasolid Products and MicroStation
  • LASTools, LP360, Global Mapper, QGIS experience.
  • Working knowledge of Python and/or other programming languages
  • GDAL Tools, and command line applications highly desirable
  • ArcGIS Data Review and Production Editing experience
  • NGA certifications, GISP Certification, ASPRS certifications in Lidar or other Remote Sensing technologies
  • Experience as an Aerial Sensor Operator
  • Current and valid security clearance

Required Skills & Required Experience
  • 8+ years of experience working with the initial processing, analysis, data classification of imagery and topographic/ bathymetric lidar projects.
  • An understanding of GIS and Lidar data and concepts including a strong knowledge of various raster and vector data types, coordinate systems, projections, and datums
  • Understanding of Lidar production workflow and being able to explain the conceptual basis of Lidar acquisition, processing, and deliverable creation. Understanding of elevation products.
  • In-depth knowledge of ESRI's products including ArcGIS 10x, ArcPro.
  • Strong communication skills
  • Able to manage multiple tasks, resolve problems quickly and efficiently, and openly collaborate
  • Quality Assurance, documentation and providing feedback.
  • Ability to handle multiple priorities under tight schedules as required
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Experience mentoring, training junior geospatial staff.

Additional Requirements:
US Citizen
Must have a valid driver's license, good driving record, and ability to pass a driving record background check.
*At this time, Dewberry will not sponsor a new applicant for work authorization.
*Dewberry is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, gender identity or sexual orientation.
*Only recipients of an offer of employment from Dewberry, will be required to submit to a background screening which may include, but is not limited to, employment verification, educational and other credential verification, driving record check, criminal background check, and an investigative consumer report. These screenings will be conducted by Dewberry's background vendor of choice and will be conducted in compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local law.
Notice to Third Party Recruiters: Dewberry only compensates job placement recruiters that have a valid Dewberry-approved written agreement in place for recruiting services. Dewberry does not compensate third party recruiters for unsolicited job placement candidate information.

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