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Sensor Operator Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Interface with Sensor Operators and analysts to guide product generation in alignment with client tasking. * Monitor data feeds and mission outputs to ensure alignment with operational objectives and ...

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 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.

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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

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 Reston, VA? The most popular types of Sensor Operator jobs in Reston, VA are:
Infographic showing various Sensor Operator job openings in Reston, VA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Liaison Officer

Metrea Management LLC

Washington, DC • Remote

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Company Overview

Metrea delivers effects-as-a-service to national security partners across five domains and more than a dozen mission areas - including airborne ISR, electronic warfare, secure communications, aerial refueling, special mission aviation, aerial firefighting, and advanced simulation. 

Wherever we operate, we build vertically integrated full stacks of capability - designing, building, and operating turnkey solutions that let customers scale capacity while benefiting from continuous cycles of innovation. With operators and engineers under one roof, we close the gap between lab and field - what we call connecting design with effect.  

Metrea’s solutions are built for elegance: effective, efficient, and evolving. This approach enables our partners to do more with less and achieve outsized, asymmetric advantage against rapidly evolving threats.  

Headquartered in Washington, DC, Metrea has facilities across the United States, the United Kingdom, Europe, and beyond. 

Group Overview

Special Air Missions Group (SAM) is responsible for developing and delivering Metrea’s Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR), Special Mobility, and Aerial Firefighting (AFF) capabilities. SAM oversees the integration of new mission systems, ensuring operational readiness across specialised aviation operations. It manages fleet maintenance, regulatory compliance, and strategic partnerships to enhance mission effectiveness. By consolidating expertise and infrastructure, SAM ensures Metrea’s airborne capabilities remain adaptable and mission-ready across dynamic operational environments. 

Position Summary

The Liaison Officer (LO) serves as the primary operational interface between the client, deployed ISR teams, and File Leadership, ensuring effective coordination, accurate intelligence product delivery, and consistent situational awareness. Operating from control centers, the Liaison Officer manages PED (Processing, Exploitation, and Dissemination) workflows, real-time communication with flight crews, and all client-facing operational reporting.

This role ensures that ISR data is processed, exploited, and disseminated in accordance with client requirements and internal standards, enabling timely, actionable intelligence delivery. The Liaison Officer acts as the operational voice of the client during live missions, relaying prioritisation, tasking updates, and mission feedback to airborne crews.

The LO contributes to operational planning, supports after-action reviews, and maintains close coordination with Site Leads, Sensor Operators, and client stakeholders to ensure mission continuity and responsiveness.

Role and Responsibilities

PED Management & ISR Data Oversight

  • Lead and coordinate the full Processing, Exploitation, and Dissemination (PED) cycle to ensure timely, accurate transformation of ISR sensor data into actionable intelligence.
  • Interface with Sensor Operators and analysts to guide product generation in alignment with client tasking.
  • Monitor data feeds and mission outputs to ensure alignment with operational objectives and reporting standards.
  • Conduct quality checks on ISR-derived products prior to client dissemination.

Mission Coordination & Real-Time Communications

  • Maintain real-time communication with deployed flight crews, relaying re-tasking, prioritisation guidance, and mission-critical feedback from the client.
  • Participate in pre-mission briefings to ensure clarity on tasking, objectives, and reporting outputs.
  • Serve as the operational voice of the client during missions, ensuring responsiveness and mission flexibility.
  • Deliver timely post-mission summaries to internal and external stakeholders.

Reporting, Documentation & Feedback

  • Prepare and deliver daily, weekly, and mission-specific reports, consolidating operational outcomes and key intelligence insights.
  • Document, track, and escalate client feedback to ensure follow-through by operational teams.
  • Maintain and update client-facing SOPs, operational documentation, and reporting templates.
  • Participate in after-action reviews and lessons-learned processes.

Client Liaison & Stakeholder Engagement

  • Serve as the primary client point of contact for operational matters, ensuring consistent, clear communication on tasking and deliverables.
  • Represent company interests professionally in all client interactions, managing expectations and supporting issue resolution.
  • Foster strong working relationships with host-nation representatives and multinational partners, as applicable.
  • Escalate mission-critical risks, delays, or data gaps to leadership and the client as required.

Operational Oversight & Collaboration

  • Coordinate closely with Site Leads, Sensor Operators, and mission-support staff to ensure mission readiness.
  • Maintain awareness of aircraft availability, crew status, and sensor system readiness relevant to operational tasking.
  • Contribute to operational planning and risk assessments, ensuring client expectations align with on-site capabilities.

Compliance & Information Assurance

  • Ensure all intelligence dissemination adheres to appropriate classification, security, and data-protection protocols.
  • Verify compliance with national, EU, partner-nation, and contract-specific regulatory frameworks.
  • Report any breaches, complaints, or data discrepancies via the correct internal and external channels.

Professional Development & Continuous Improvement

  • Remain current on ISR best practices, PED methodologies, mission-system updates, and client operating environments.
  • Identify opportunities to improve PED workflows, reporting structures, or client coordination processes.
  • Support onboarding or training of junior Liaison Officers or PED analysts when required.
  • Contribute feedback that enhances ISR effectiveness and client satisfaction.

Skills and Experience

  • Strong operational understanding of ISR mission structures, PED workflows, and reporting requirements.
  • Demonstrated experience in high-tempo, client-facing operational environments.
  • Excellent communication skills, including real-time operational decision-making and interpersonal coordination.
  • Familiarity with ISR systems, data-handling protocols, and intelligence product formats is highly desirable.
  • Proven ability to manage complex information flows and maintain situational awareness across multiple stakeholders.
  • Experience working remotely with distributed or multinational operational teams.
  • Security clearance or ability to obtain one.

Additional Eligibility Qualifications

  • Experience in a liaison, ISR operations, intelligence analysis, or mission-coordination role preferred.
  • Training or qualifications in intelligence, aviation operations, or PED-related fields beneficial.
  • Proficiency with operational and reporting software tools.

Our Firmware   

Metrea’s single core value, “rooted in humility,” is supported by four key attributes: entrepreneurial, systematic, discerning, and over-deliver. These attributes, combined, form our Teammate Firmware, and our culture. We explore these attributes during the hiring process when we grow our teams and continually support the growth of our culture. We are a hyper-collaborative, dynamically hierarchical organisation united by a passion for what we do, how we do it, who we do it with, and who we do it for.  

Benefits  

Private Medical Insurance 

Subsided gym membership / plans through Wellhub 

Electric Car scheme 

Cycle to work scheme 

30 days annual PTO plus b/h  

Eye Tests 

Right to Work 

The employee will have the legal right to work in the European Union and will be able to produce valid right-to-work documentation along with the ability to obtain a security clearance.

Equal Opportunities Statement 
Metrea Aerial Effects is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or other characteristics protected by law.  

Position Type and Expected Hours of Work
This is a full-time non-exempt position with typical working hours of Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Hours and work shifts may change in accordance with department and business needs. Exempt Employees must have the ability to be on-call and available, as business needs require. Non-Exempt employees may be required to work over 40 hours per week with approval from the department manager.   

Work Location
The role is primarily based at a deployed operations centre, where the Liaison Officer is expected to work during assigned rotations. Remote or hybrid work will occur during off-rotation periods and will follow the expected hours of work.

Work Environment
This role operates primarily within a deployed operations centre, supporting live ISR missions, PED activities, and real-time coordination with airborne crews. The working environment is fast-paced and operationally dynamic, requiring sustained focus, continuous communication, and flexibility in response to mission demands. During off-rotation periods, the role transitions to a remote or hybrid environment to support reporting, planning, and ongoing client engagement.

Travel   

Frequent; travel is required to support operational deployments, rotations at the deployed operations centre, client engagement, and mission-related coordination activities.