ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Trainee Airborne Sensor Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Vexcel

Aerial Sensor Operator

Frederick, MD · On-site

... an Aerial Sensor Operator to join our aerial data collection team. If you are curious about ... of airborne LiDAR and digital sensors ? Support Flight Operations and Quality Control teams as ...

NV5

Acquisition Project Coordinator

Corvallis, OR

Field experience as an airborne sensor operator * Ability to work out of the NV5 office in Portland, OR * In-depth experience using various LIDAR sensors, cameras and other instruments * Experience ...

NV5

Acquisition Project Coordinator

Corvallis, OR

Field experience as an airborne sensor operator * Ability to work out of the NV5 office in Portland, OR * In-depth experience using various LIDAR sensors, cameras and other instruments * Experience ...

NV5

Acquisition Project Coordinator

Corvallis, OR · On-site

Field experience as an airborne sensor operator * Ability to work out of the NV5 office in Portland, OR * In-depth experience using various LIDAR sensors, cameras and other instruments * Experience ...

Vexcel

Aerial Sensor Operator

Frederick, MD · On-site

... an Aerial Sensor Operator to join our aerial data collection team. If you are curious about ... airborne LiDAR and digital sensors • Support Flight Operations and Quality Control teams as ...

Department of the Air Force

... (RPA). RPA Sensor Operators employ airborne sensors in manual or computer-assisted modes to ... actively acquire, track, and monitor airborne, maritime and ground objects. Operates mission ...

Metrea

Head of Crew Training

Tampa, FL · On-site

This role is responsible for ensuring pilots, Airborne Sensor Operators, and other assigned flight crew members are properly selected, trained, qualified, current, and competent to safely execute ISR ...

L3HHCM20

Sr Assoc Field Engineering

Tulsa, OK · On-site

The aircraft are operated and maintained by L3Harris in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and are configured to support diverse sensor payloads for test data collection. In addition to airborne operations, the ABS ...

L3HHCM20

Senior Associate, Field Engineering

Tulsa, OK · On-site

The aircraft are operated and maintained by L3Harris in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and are configured to support diverse sensor payloads for test data collection. In addition to airborne operations, the ABS ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsAirborne Sensor Operator JobsTrainee Airborne Sensor Operator Jobs

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 Aug 16, 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 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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a trainee airborne sensor operator?

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 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.

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:

Trainee Airborne Sensor Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Trainee Airborne Sensor Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,530 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Aerial Sensor Operator

Greenman-Pedersen, Inc.

Orlando, FL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Description
GPI Geospatial is seeking an Aerial Sensor Operator to conduct data acquisition of both high-resolution imagery and LiDAR from our aircraft, which is based at our office in Orlando, FL. This individual must be able to work independently and in a team setting. The ideal candidate is self-motivated with excellent problem-solving abilities as well as verbal and written communication skills. There is an opportunity for career development within the company. All relevant experience levels will be considered.
Do you value a company that puts employee satisfaction and diversity at the forefront of who they are? If so, GPI Geospatial wants you!
GPI Geospatial is a premier mapping firm for Transportation, Energy, Planning, Design, Construction, and Land Development throughout North America. Our vision is to be the most trusted provider of precision mapping, imagery, LiDAR, and land surveying services. We are part of GPI, a multi-discipline engineering firm that has been providing planning, design, and construction services for transportation infrastructure and building system projects throughout the United States for over 50 years. Ranked in the Top 100 Firms by Engineering News-Record, GPI is a forward-thinking, innovative firm with a culture that is committed to excellence and fosters staff empowerment. For more information, visit: www.gpinet.com
Responsibilities:
  • Perform a pre/post-flight inspection of the sensors
  • Oversee and performs routine maintenance of aerial mapping systems
  • Safety-minded aircraft operation adhering to FAA and company safety guidelines
  • Timely completion of necessary fight logs and data transfer duties
  • Maintain mission and personal readiness always for deployment
  • Coordinates with pilot and Acquisition Managers for project assignments
  • Collaborate with other flight crews on mission efficiency and effective operations
  • Acquire airborne data using LiDAR and/or digital multi-spectral imagery from our aircraft
  • Understand and communicate the capabilities and limitations of the sensor and system
  • Coordinate with system operators, pilots, management, and other third parties as required to accomplish the collection missions
  • Ensure safe and secure use of company equipment and instrumentation
  • Coordinate with system manufacturers to troubleshoot field-related issues
  • Provided pilot with project information for imagery/LiDAR collection of specific targets and determined optimal sensor settings
  • Coordinates with data management on all projects regarding mission statistics
  • Provided guidance and information to pilots and otherwise assist with mission planning, field operations, and debriefing

Qualifications:
  • Must have at least an H.S. Diploma
  • No experience necessary, but prior aerial survey and/or flight operation experience very helpful
  • Computer system knowledge and networking is helpful
  • Willingness to travel up to 65%
  • Fly mapping missions up to 5.5 continuous hours. Multiple daily flights possible with an hour rest between
  • Work during early mornings, late evenings, weekends, and possibly holidays
  • Deployed for extended periods for larger missions
  • Non-pressurized flight operations, exposure to the cold and heat, elements of the seasons, and turbulence
  • Participation in significant physical lifting, pushing, and pulling activities related to aircraft loading and unloading

Requirements
  • Maintain a valid driver's license with a clean motor vehicle report (MVR) for final consideration
  • Read, write, and understand plans and directions given in the English language
  • Basic computer skills with the ability to create and edit Microsoft Word and Excel documents, create Outlook emails and utilize SharePoint and Microsoft Teams to
  • communicate with other team members
  • Able to stand for approximately 3 hours minimum a day up to 8 hours
  • Able to wear GPI required PPE, i.e., hard hats, safety vest, work boots, and/or safety glasses/goggles while working

Apply