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Trainee Airborne Sensor Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Kalman & Company

Electronics Technician

Addison, TX · On-site

The candidate will provide hands-on technical support for airborne sensor and data acquisition ... operating procedures (SOPs), maintenance manuals, and technical documentation for electronic ...

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

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 ...

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 ...

Overwatch Imaging

Product Owner - Maritime

Hood River, OR · On-site

$100K - $150K/yr

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, brings Superhuman Vision and Workload ...

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Trainee Airborne Sensor Operator information

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$25.5K

$43.5K

$63.5K

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

As of Sep 6, 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.

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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 38% Full Time, 60% Part Time, 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.

Mission Sensor Operator (Part-Time) with Security Clearance

Top Aces Corp

North Las Vegas, NV • On-site

Other

Re-posted 17 days ago

Job description

The Mission Sensor Operator (MSO) will operate Company owned sensors in support of our customer to enhance the clients overall training capabilities and objectives. The information below is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required for this position. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. Job Duties and Responsibilities * Execute Contract Close Air Support Training (CCAS) while employing a thorough knowledge of Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs) in company owned tactical attack aircraft; * Exercise live weapons employment to include BDU-33, 2.75" Rockets, and Strafe; * Assist in air navigation, Air Order of Battle (AOB) integration, planning of air to surface fires, and effective weapons control and employment tactics; * Perform pre-flight and in-flight mission planning activities within federal regulations; * Participate in post-flight debriefing with customer; * Responsible for radio set-up, communications procedures, and proficiency, multi spectrum sensor operation of the FLIR 380HDc, and application of 3-09.3 JCAS; * Operate tactical simulators in support of desired training objectives; * Perform other duties as assigned. Minimum Requirements Must be previously qualified as a DoD WSO in fighter/attack or bomber aircraft, DoD Pilot or Combat Systems Officer (CSO) in ISR aircraft, or previously qualified as a DoD JTAC-I (Instructor) or JTAC-SEE (Evaluator). Must have extensive experience building Close Air Support scenarios and emulating, via radio, airborne and ground players in those scenarios. Must be able to run sensor, simulate a CAS or ISR platform and contribute to an exercise brief/debrief. Knowledge, understanding, and execution of JCAS 3-09.3, JFIRE, and TTPs at the SME level. Must be able to obtain/maintain security clearance. Must be a U.S. Citizen. Must be able to obtain a Common Access Card (CAC) and must not be barred from any government installation. Must be able to stand, lift overhead, bend, crouch, climb a ladder, see to look, and ear the listen. Must be fluent in the English language with excellent communication skills. Must be willing to work nights, weekends, and holidays, if necessary. Must provide own military flight helmet with standard oxygen and communication connections as well as standard civilian-style headset.

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