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Sensor Operator Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

NCSL International

Sensor Integration Engineer

Reston, VA · 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 ...

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 ...

ECS

Field Operations Lead

Fairfax, VA · On-site +1

$135K - $175K/yr

... sensor operator and/or intelligence specialist supporting ISR operations * Active Secret clearance with ability to obtain and maintain a TS/SCI clearance * Ability to travel: 10%-30% of travel will ...

New

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 ...

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 · 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 ...

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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 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.
More about Sensor Operator jobs

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:

What job categories do people searching Sensor Operator jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Sensor Operator jobs in Reston, VA are:

Sensor Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sensor Operator job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 44% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution.

Sensor Integration Engineer

Reston, VA • On-site

NCSL International
See more jobs at NCSL Internationalexternal

$110 - $160/hr

Other

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

Looking for an opportunity to make an impact?

At Leidos, we deliver innovative solutions through the efforts of our diverse and talented people who are dedicated to our customers’ success. We empower our teams, contribute to our communities, and operate sustainably. Everything we do is built on a dedication to do the right thing for our customers, our people, and our community. Our Mission, Vision, and Values guide the way we do business.

If this sounds like the type of environment where you can thrive, keep reading!

The Force Protection Division is looking for a Sensor Integration Engineer to serve as the technical lead for the integration, configuration, testing, and operational validation of force protection sensing technologies supporting the Rock Island Arsenal (RIA) Increased Access OTA Prototype.

This position is responsible for integrating and validating multiple sensor types – including radar, electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR), electronic warfare (EW), LiDAR, acoustic detection, access control, and supporting communications technologies – into a unified operational environment. The Sensor Integration Engineer works closely with the Lead Systems Engineer, Software & Platform Engineering Lead, Field Operations Lead, Cyber/OT Engineer, and subcontractor technical teams to ensure all sensing technologies operate as an integrated layered protection ecosystem within an active Army operational environment.

Primary Responsibilities Sensor Systems Integration
  • Integrate force protection sensors into the unified operational architecture.
  • Configure and validate radar, EO/IR, LiDAR, acoustic, electronic warfare, and access control technologies.
  • Support sensor-to-COP integration and data fusion activities.
  • Validate interoperability between Government-furnished, Leidos, and teammate-provided systems.
Technical Integration & Configuration
  • Configure sensor interfaces, communications paths, and operational parameters.
  • Support API and interface integration activities.
  • Develop and maintain Interface Control Documents (ICDs) as required.
  • Coordinate sensor configuration with software and systems engineering teams.
Operational Testing & Validation
  • Conduct field integration testing and operational validation.
  • Perform sensor calibration and performance optimization.
  • Support end-to-end operational workflow validation.
  • Participate in Operational Readiness Reviews (ORRs) and Government demonstrations.
  • Validate sensor performance against operational scenarios and mission requirements.
Field Deployment Support
  • Support installation and activation of sensing systems.
  • Assist the Field Operations Lead during deployment activities.
  • Troubleshoot integration and interoperability issues in the field.
  • Coordinate with field service personnel on equipment installation and configuration.
Force Protection Operations Support
  • Ensure sensor integration supports layered force protection concepts.
  • Support detection, tracking, classification, and alerting workflows.
  • Validate cross-cueing and multi-sensor correlation capabilities.
  • Optimize sensor performance to reduce false alarms and improve operational awareness.
Technical Troubleshooting
  • Diagnose integration and sensor performance issues.
  • Perform root cause analysis of hardware and software interface problems.
  • Coordinate corrective actions with engineering teams and OEMs.
  • Support rapid restoration of operational capability.
Risk Management
  • Identify technical integration risks.
  • Recommend mitigation strategies for interoperability and performance issues.
  • Support technical risk reviews and corrective action planning.
  • Maintain awareness of critical path integration activities.
Basic Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s degree and 8 - 12 years of prior relevant experience or Master’s with 6 - 10 years of prior relevant experience.
  • Systems Engineering leadership on complex DoD programs and demonstrated experience in several of the following areas:
    • Electronic Warfare (EW) Systems
    • Counter-UAS (C-UAS) Technologies
    • Radar Integration
    • Electro-Optical / Infrared (EO/IR) Systems
    • LiDAR Technologies
    • Acoustic Detection Systems
    • Video Management Systems (VMS)
    • Command and Control (C2) Systems
    • Common Operating Picture (COP) Platforms
    • Multi-Sensor Fusion
    • Systems Integration & Interoperability
    • Active Army Installation or DoD Depot Operations
  • Ability to simplify complex technical issues and lead diverse technical teams in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
  • Multi-vendor interoperability and interface management experience.
  • Operational test and evaluation experience.
  • Ability to communicate with executive leadership (internally or client) regarding matters of significant importance to the organization/project.
  • Bias for action and problem resolution and collaborative decision-maker.
  • Knowledge of agile development methodologies and management.
  • US citizenship and current secret clearance.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Physical security or force protection systems experience.
  • Experience supporting DoD programs involving integrated sensing technologies.
  • Experience working in active operational environments such as Army/DoD depots, arsenals, military installations, or operational test ranges.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret security clearance (active clearance preferred).
Commitment to Non-Discrimination

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, ethnicity, age, national origin, citizenship, religion, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, family structure, marital status, ancestry, domestic partner status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran or military status, or any other basis prohibited by law. Leidos will also consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories consistent with relevant laws.

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