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Trainee Airborne Sensor Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Act as Sensor Operator Subject Matter Expert (SME) for MX system operation (ground, sea, airborne) and possible training of WESCAM MX series of products and integrated mission systems. * Assist in ...

Pilot is responsible for pre-flight planning, aircraft pre-flight check, coordinating with Airborne Sensor Operators (ASO) and Mission Commanders who operate the on-board sensor systems and are ...

Test Automation Engineer

Hood River, OR · Hybrid

$48 - $63.50/hr

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 ...

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

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

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$25.5K

$43.5K

$63.5K

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

As of Sep 5, 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:

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 Systems Operator III - Deploy Only

Sierra Nevada Corporation

Shalimar, FL • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.


Sierra Nevada Corporation rating

8.7

Company rating: 8.7 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

16th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Mission Systems Operator III

Are you a seasoned mission systems operator looking for a meaningful work environment that supports and protects heroes? Join our team! As a Mission Systems Operator III, you will lead advanced mission operations, ensuring the effective use of airborne sensor systems. Your expertise in sensor technologies and mission planning will drive successful outcomes in complex operational environments. You will mentor junior operators and collaborate with mission leaders to refine operational strategies.

The Mission Solutions and Technologies (MST) business area provides affordable, turn-key command/control, communications, integrated ISR, force protection and security solutions worldwide. The MST team has a long legacy of supporting the Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, commercial and international customers with years of experience in platform operations, engineering and full lifecycle management across domains air, land, sea, space and cyber.

Responsibilities:

  • Lead and execute complex mission operations using RADAR and MX-15 systems.
  • Mentor and train junior operators on advanced sensor usage.
  • Develop and refine mission strategies and operational plans.
  • Perform in-depth data analysis and present actionable insights.
  • Ensure stringent adherence to safety and operational protocols.

Qualifications You Must Have:

  • Bachelor's degree in related field of study.
  • 4+ years of experience in a related field.
  • Relevant experience can be considered as a substitute for the required educational qualifications. In the absence of a degree, a minimum of 8 years of related experience is required.
  • Higher level relevant degree may substitute for experience.
  • Advanced understanding of sensor technologies (RADAR, MX-15).
  • Progressive experience with Crew Resource Management (CRM) and Airmanship.
  • 1000 hours of flight time knowledge of ARC-231.
  • Advanced knowledge of Small Secure Datalink (SSDL) radio functionality.
  • Thorough understanding of RADAR Theory and MX15HDi camera technology.
  • Ability to deploy for an extended amount of time to various OCONUS operating locations.
  • Ability to meet current DoD and Combatant Command requirements for deployed locations.
  • Successfully pass a pre-deployment medical assessment.
  • Must be willing and able to work extended hours, holidays, and shift schedules as required.
  • Current/ valid passport and be able to obtain a visa to travel internationally.
  • Willing to TDY for extensive amounts of time.
  • Willing to deploy OCONUS on an approximate 60/60 rotation.
  • An active Top Secret with SCI eligibility U.S. Security Clearance is required

Qualifications We Prefer:

  • Master's degree in Aerospace, Engineering, or related field.
  • Extensive experience in mission planning and execution.
  • Advanced certifications in sensor technology operation.
  • Maritime experience.
  • Background in the Aerospace and Defense Industry, the US Department of Defense, or US Military.
  • Experience with Windows 10 Falcon View or Force Map technology.
  • Prior experience as a CRM/Organizational Resource Management (ORM) instructor.

Essential Functions:

  • Ability to lift up to 25 lbs regularly.
  • Ability to be on feet for extended periods.
  • Regularly working on a computer.
  • Ability to work in potentially loud environments.
  • Ability to travel domestically and internationally as required.
  • Ability to work in an office or hybrid environment.

This posting will be open for application for a minimum of 5 days and may be extended based on business needs.

SNC offers a generous benefit package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, 401(k) with 150% match up to 6%, life insurance, 3 weeks paid time off, tuition reimbursement, and more.

IMPORTANT NOTICE:

This position requires current/active Top Secret with SCI eligibility U.S. Security Clearance. U.S. Citizenship status is required as this position needs an active U.S. Security Clearance for employment. Non-U.S. Citizens may not be eligible to obtain a security clearance. The Department of Defense Consolidated Adjudications Facility (DoD CAF), a federal government agency, handles the adjudicative aspects of the security clearance eligibility process for industry applicants. Adjudicative factors which affect the outcome of the eligibility determination include, but are not limited to, allegiance to the U.S., foreign influence, foreign preference, criminal conduct, security violations and illegal drug use.

Learn more about the background check process for Security Clearances.

SNC is a global leader in aerospace and national security committed to moving the American Dream forward. We're known and respected for our mission and execution focus, agility, and disruptive and rapid innovation. We provide leading edge technologies and transformative solutions that support our nation's most critical security needs. If you are mission-focused, thrive in collaborative environments, and want to make our country stronger with state-of-the-art technologies that safeguard freedom, join our team!

SNC is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to an environment free of discrimination. Employment decisions are made based on merit without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran or other characteristics protected by law.


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