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Trainee Airborne Sensor Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Flight Test Engineer

Hagerstown, MD · On-site

$90K - $140K/yr

The successful candidate is a high-tenacity, technically-grounded Flight Test Engineer (FTE) who excels in the dynamic environment of airborne sensor testing. Operating out of a converted business ...

The successful candidate is a high-tenacity, technically-grounded Flight Test Engineer (FTE) who excels in the dynamic environment of airborne sensor testing. Operating out of a converted business ...

The successful candidate is a high-tenacity, technically-grounded Flight Test Engineer (FTE) who excels in the dynamic environment of airborne sensor testing. Operating out of a converted business ...

... airborne sensor testing. Key Responsibilities/Duties Include: · In-Flight System Operation: Work as an onboard operator for SAR/GMTI, EO/IR, and SIGINT/EW sensor suites, following test cards to ...

... airborne sensor testing. Key Responsibilities/Duties Include: · In-Flight System Operation: Work as an onboard operator for SAR/GMTI, EO/IR, and SIGINT/EW sensor suites, following test cards to ...

Manages multiple airborne sensors' processes simultaneously to operate and interface with multiple ... Provides real-time SIGINT and networks assistance to pilot, maintainers, operators and users

... airborne sensor testing. Key Responsibilities/Duties Include: In-Flight System Operation: Work as an onboard operator for SAR/GMTI, EO/IR, and SIGINT/EW sensor suites, following test cards to collect ...

Manned/Unmanned Airborne Systems SME

Tampa, FL · On-site

$102K - $140K/yr

At SES Space & Defense, we are a trusted partner ensuring mission success for customers operating ... This can consist of work with full motion video (FMV), sensor data transport issues and development ...

Our Automated Sensor Operator (ASO) software, native to our own line of purpose-built Smart Sensors and as an upgrade for airborne video gimbal platforms, bringsSuperhuman VisionandWorkload ...

Our Automated Sensor Operator (ASO) software, native to our own line of purpose-built Smart Sensors and as an upgrade for airborne video gimbal platforms, bringsSuperhuman VisionandWorkload ...

TOCRON Watch Officer, TacMobile analysis subsystem operator, and TacMobile advanced airborne sensor subsystem operator. * TacMobile system deployment experience to 5th, 6th, and 7th fleets. TOC watch ...

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Trainee Airborne Sensor Operator information

See salary details

$25.5K

$43.5K

$63.5K

How much do trainee airborne sensor operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average yearly pay for trainee airborne sensor operator in the United States is $43,530.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,000.00 and $51,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What typical challenges might a Trainee Airborne Sensor Operator face during their initial training period?

As a Trainee Airborne Sensor Operator, you may encounter challenges such as quickly adapting to unfamiliar sensor technologies, learning to interpret real-time data accurately, and maintaining situational awareness during extended flight missions. Training often involves collaborating closely with pilots and mission planners, requiring strong communication skills and the ability to work well under pressure. Overcoming these challenges is key to building confidence and competence in both routine and complex operational scenarios.

What is the difference between Trainee Airborne Sensor Operator vs Airborne Sensor Operator?

AspectTrainee Airborne Sensor OperatorAirborne Sensor Operator
CredentialsBasic aviation and sensor operation training, often requiring security clearanceAdvanced certifications, experience in sensor systems, and operational licenses
Work EnvironmentTraining flights, supervised missions, controlled environmentsActive missions, operational aircraft, real-time data collection
Employer & Industry UsageMilitary, defense contractors, training programsMilitary, surveillance agencies, specialized defense units

The main difference is that a Trainee Airborne Sensor Operator is in training, gaining skills and certifications, while an Airborne Sensor Operator is fully qualified, performing operational duties in real missions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Trainee Airborne Sensor Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Trainee Airborne Sensor Operator, you need a solid understanding of aeronautical principles, spatial awareness, and a relevant technical background, often supported by a degree or military training. Familiarity with airborne sensor systems, mapping software, and data analysis tools is typically required, with certifications in aviation operations or remote sensing considered advantageous. Attention to detail, strong teamwork, and effective communication are critical soft skills for coordinating missions and ensuring data accuracy. These skills and qualities are essential for reliable data collection, mission success, and safety in dynamic aerial environments.

What is a Trainee Airborne Sensor Operator?

A Trainee Airborne Sensor Operator is an entry-level professional who assists in operating and managing airborne sensors on aircraft, typically for purposes such as aerial surveying, mapping, surveillance, or environmental monitoring. They work under the supervision of experienced operators to learn how to use specialized equipment like cameras, radar, and infrared sensors. The role involves both technical skills in handling sensors and understanding flight operations, as well as the ability to analyze and interpret collected data. Trainees often undergo extensive training to become fully qualified Airborne Sensor Operators and may work for government agencies, private companies, or research organizations.
More about Trainee Airborne Sensor Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Trainee Airborne Sensor Operator jobs? Cities with the most Trainee Airborne Sensor Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Airborne Sensor Operator jobs? The most popular types of Airborne Sensor Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Trainee Airborne Sensor Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Trainee Airborne Sensor Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Trainee Airborne Sensor Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Trainee Airborne Sensor Operator jobs are:
Infographic showing various Trainee Airborne Sensor Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,530 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Electrical Engineer Technician

Amatriot Group, LLC

Crane, IN

$74K - $78K/yr

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Security Clearance: Secret

Location: Crane, IN

Job Type: Full-Time

Target Salary Range*: $74,000-78,000

*This represents the potential salary range for this position depending on education level, years of experience and/or certifications in addition to other position specific requirements which may impact salary

Position Overview:

The Amatriot Group is seeking a mid-level Electrical Engineering Technician with hands-on experience supporting electro-optical systems in a defense or production laboratory environment. The ideal candidate brings at least 5 years of technical experience, with strong skills in diagnostics, testing, hardware/software repair, and data analysis, and is familiar with safety protocols related to lasers, hazardous materials, and electrostatic discharge. This role supports mission-critical airborne sensor systems for the U.S. Navy.

Key Responsibilities:

•Perform diagnostics, troubleshooting, parts replacement, and repairs on advanced electro-optic systems.
•Execute system testing procedures to evaluate sensor functionality and operational performance.
•Assist in maintaining and validating technical documentation, maintenance procedures, and test plans.
•Conduct data collection and analysis on test results to detect inefficiencies or deviations from standards.
•Collaborate with engineers on root-cause investigations and system improvement initiatives.
•Support procedure updates, technical documentation reviews, and engineering drawing interpretation.
•Participate in continuous training through the Personnel Qualification System (PQS) to support proficiency in system-specific maintenance and testing procedures.
•Follow established safety and compliance protocols, including Laser Safety, HAZMAT handling, ESD awareness, and OSHA guidelines.
•Perform lab upkeep tasks such as hazardous material disposal, inventory management, and equipment calibration tracking.

Qualifications:

•Associate’s Degree in Electronics Technology or closely related field (minimum).
•Active Secret Clearance (Interim or Final) required at time of start.
•5+ years of experience in a laboratory, manufacturing, or defense support role.
•Proven experience supporting electro-optical sensor systems, including mechanical and electronic subassemblies.
•Familiar with data analysis to support test result interpretation, troubleshooting, and reporting.
•Experience developing or updating test procedures and technical forms.
•Familiar with laser safety practices and required medical surveillance for laser system operators.
•Comfortable working within a structured quality, documentation, and compliance framework.
•U.S. Citizenship (required for access to government systems and facilities).

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience with airborne sensor platforms (e.g., multi-sensor targeting or surveillance systems).
  • Background working with government-furnished equipment or in support of DoD engineering labs.
  • Completion of training or certifications in ESD prevention, laser handling, or hazardous materials management.
  • Experience with cost analysis, design impact reviews, or support to quality assurance audits.