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Uav Sensor Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Anduril Industries

UAV Operator, Bolt

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$113K - $155K/yr

Anduril's family of systems is powered by Lattice OS, an AI-powered operating system that turns ... sensor fusion, and networking technology to the military in months, not years. About The Team The ...

Swarm Aero

Mechanical Engineer, Integration

Oxnard, CA · On-site

$150K - $200K/yr

... operators to achieve superhuman results. The team has created and exited multiple startups ... Swarm Aero UAV fleet, from power generation and distribution through sensor and data-bus ...

Anduril Industries

Systems Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$146K - $194K/yr

Anduril's family of systems is powered by Lattice OS, an AI-powered operating system that turns ... Layout system design plans and interfaces for new UAV products and platforms * Manage tactical ...

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All JobsUav Sensor Operator JobsUav Sensor Operator Jobs in California

Uav Sensor Operator information

See California salary details

$23K

$65.9K

$163K

How much do uav sensor operator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for uav sensor operator in California is $65,851.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,783.00 and $97,433.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a UAV Sensor Operator?

As a UAV Sensor Operator, your typical day includes setting up and calibrating sensor equipment, conducting pre-flight checks, and monitoring UAV flight paths. You will actively manage and interpret data streams from various sensors such as electro-optical, infrared, or LiDAR, ensuring that mission objectives are met. Collaboration with UAV pilots, mission planners, and intelligence analysts is common, and you may be required to summarize findings in detailed reports. The role frequently involves adapting to changing mission requirements and maintaining a high level of vigilance throughout each flight operation.

What is a UAV Sensor Operator job?

A UAV Sensor Operator is responsible for operating and managing sensors on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to gather intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance data. They monitor camera feeds, radar, and other sensors to identify targets, assess terrain, and support mission objectives. This role requires strong situational awareness, technical proficiency, and the ability to work as part of a team in military, law enforcement, or commercial applications.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Uav Sensor Operator position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a UAV Sensor Operator, you need a background in remote sensing, imagery analysis, and UAV operations, often supported by military experience or specialized technical training. Familiarity with ground control stations, mission planning software, and relevant certifications such as Part 107 (for civilian operations) are commonly required. Strong attention to detail, effective communication, and the ability to work well under pressure are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure accurate data collection, safe UAV operation, and reliable collaboration within mission teams.

What are the most commonly searched types of Uav Sensor Operator jobs in California? The most popular types of Uav Sensor Operator jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Uav Sensor Operator jobs in California? For Uav Sensor Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Uav Sensor Operator jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Uav Sensor Operator jobs in California are:
Uav Sensor Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Uav Sensor Operator job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $65,851 per year, or $31.7 per hour.
Part-Time UAS/UAV Technology Instructor (Pool)

Part-Time UAS/UAV Technology Instructor (Pool)

West Valley-Mission Community College District

Saratoga, CA • On-site

$38K - $55K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Requisition Details
Position Information
Position Title
Part-Time UAS/UAV Technology Instructor (Pool)
Position ID
Campus
West Valley College
Position Summary Information
Definition
This is a Part Time, Associate Faculty position to assist in the instruction and implementation of the UAS Technology Program at West Valley College. The selected candidate will instruct and lead students, and work with an industry Advisory Board to assure curriculum conformity with industry needs. Instruction will be both lecture and lab, with a high degree of hands-on instruction.
The Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) is designed to prepare students to enter the workforce as entry level operators and technicians in this occupational field. Through some lecture and mostly hands-on activities, students learn the operation and repair of both types of vehicles. The course will cover basic electronics, basic mechanics, GIS, FAA licensing requirements, safety, and career opportunities.
Applications for Part-Time, Associate Faculty pools are continually accepted (unless otherwise specified) by the District and will be added to the application pool for review by hiring authorities on an as-needed basis. Should you be invited for an interview, you will be contacted by a District representative.
Assignment
This position is a part-time position as an Associate Instructor. The teaching assignment may require teaching lecture-discussion courses during day, evening or on Saturday and/or in an on-line/distance education format. The assignments are as needed, during Spring, Summer, and/or Fall semesters. This position is represented by the West Valley-Mission Federation of Teachers (WVMFT / AFT Local 6554).
Work location: West Valley College, Saratoga, CA
Salary and Benefits
Salary is based on a percentage of workload, up to a maximum of 67% of a full-time load. Salary is prorated based on an initial hiring salary range of $38,464 - $55,582 per semester; and is based on academic achievement, teaching and related experience.
Minimum Qualifications
1. Education - Possess any one of the following:
  • Any bachelor's degree or higher AND two years of professional experience; OR
  • Any associate degree and six years of professional experience.

AND
2. Understanding of, and sensitivity to the diverse academic, socio-economic, ethnic, religious and cultural backgrounds, disability, and sexual orientation of community college students, faculty and staff.
Desired Qualifications
  • Operation experience as a Small UAS Operator and have led field instruction operations.
  • Must have a current FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot License
  • Possess excellent written and oral communication skills and be able to work as part of a team.
  • Experience in curriculum development desired.
  • Experience flying UAS systems both fixed wing and Quad-Rotor Systems
  • Experience in processing and analyzing data and images with various software packages that may include; ARCGIS, ENVI, Pix4D, AgiSoft Photo Scan, Drone 2 Map.
  • Experience in sensor, hardware design and systems maintenance.
  • Experience in entrepreneurship.
  • Experience in conducting missions with UAS/UAV.

Examples of Duties and Responsibilities
Instructional duties and assignments may consist of one or more of the following:
  • Provide instruction for assigned courses. This includes preparation for in-class or on-line/distance education activities, evaluation of students' work, consultation with students outside of class and/or on-line, maintenance of currency in the subjects taught.
  • Maintain accurate class and other records required by the college.
  • Submit, when due, attendance rosters and grade reports.
  • Follow course outlines as filed in the instruction offices.
  • Maintain office hours each week, at .5 hours per week per section.
  • Observe, support and enforce the regulations, policies and programs of the District and college.
  • Provide each student with a written course syllabus at the beginning of the course, as per instructions in the Faculty Handbook.
  • Refer students to appropriate college sources for information on counseling and other student services.
  • Assist students by providing advice on requirements for successful achievement in the members' area of expertise.
  • Work cooperatively within the college community.
  • Foster an environment that protects academic freedom within the college community.
  • Foster a positive working environment that is free from harassment, prejudice and/or bias.
  • Demonstrate a respect for the dignity of each individual.

Other Duties
Application Information
APPLICATION INFORMATION:
  • Interested applicants must submit online all materials requested, including: (1) A completed online West Valley-Mission Community College District application; (2) Resume; (3) Unofficial copies of transcripts; (4) District Equivalency Application, if applicable; and (5) Any requested licenses or certificates, if applicable.
  • All sections of the online application, including Education and Educational Work History, must be completed thoroughly.
  • Supervisor(s) name(s) and telephone numbers must be included in the application.
  • Incomplete applications will not be considered.
  • Do NOT send unrequested materials. Unrequested materials will be removed from your application and will not be used for consideration of employment.
  • The employment application and supporting documents represent you; it is to your advantage to fill out the application form carefully and completely.

ABOUT TRANSCRIPTS:
  • If a minimum requirement is possession of a degree, then a copy of transcripts is required to be included with your application to verify the degree being awarded. If no transcripts are included, the application may be screened as not meeting minimum requirements.
  • Degrees must have been awarded by a college or university accredited by an accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Council on Post-Secondary Accreditation and/or the U.S. Department of Education.
  • Candidates with degrees earned outside of the United States must provide official certification of equivalency to U. S. degrees by a certified U. S. credential review service, must have a U.S. evaluation (course by course of the transcripts) and must be submitted with this online application.
  • If you do not have an electronic version of the transcript, you can get it scanned at an office supply or copy store, then attach the electronic version of your transcript to this online application.
  • Copies of diplomas, grade reports, graduation petitions, transcript evaluations requests, or similar documents WILL NOT be accepted in lieu of transcripts.
  • When uploading transcripts, please ensure they are NOT encrypted, secured, or password-protected or they will be rejected by the system.

EQUIVALENCY INFORMATION:
Applicants applying under equivalency bear the responsibility of submitting the District's Equivalency Application form with details and evidence of the factors (academic preparation and/or experience) that they believe to be equivalent of the required qualifications for this position. Application(s) for equivalency are required if degrees are not in exact discipline required.
The Equivalency Application is included in the online application as an OPTIONAL form to complete.
  • ONLY complete the Request for Equivalency application if degree does not match discipline(s) stated in the Minimum Qualifications.
  • List accurately and completely the courses taken that match requirements of the required degree.
  • Do NOT attach documents such as course evaluations.

For assistance, contact:
Office of Human Resources, Attn: Recruitment
14000 Fruitvale Ave, Saratoga, CA 95070
Phone: (408) 741-2174 Fax: (408) 741-2564
Email: careers@wvm.edu
Selection Process
SELECTION PROCESS INFORMATION:
  • Applications will be screened by appropriate department representatives on an as-needed basis. Qualified applicants who best meet the needs of the division will be contacted for an interview.
  • Travel expenses to attend the interview are the responsibility of the candidate.
  • Applications will remain in our online system for 1 year. Each year, part-time pools will be refreshed and applicants will be notified of the opportunity to re-submit application.
  • Application materials become the property of the District and will not be returned or duplicated.
  • The district reserves the right to contact former, current, the most recent employers, and others to investigate past employment records of applicants.
  • Upon hire the successful candidate must provide the required documents of identity and authorization to work and attest he/she is authorized to work in the United States.
  • Prior to employment, the selected candidate must submit official transcripts.
  • The district does not provide visa sponsorship.

EEO STATEMENT:
West Valley-Mission Community College District is an Equal Opportunity Employer that seeks to employ a diverse workforce who will contribute to an inclusive and welcoming educational and employment environment. The District is committed to nondiscrimination on the basis of ethnic group identification, race, color, national origin, religion, age, sex, physical disability, mental disability, genetic information, ancestry, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, language, accent, citizenship status, transgender status, parental status, marital status, economic status, military or veteran status, and medical condition consistent with applicable federal and state laws.
Special Instructions to the Applicant
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number
FY17/18-708POOL
Open Date
04/29/2024
Close Date
Open Until Filled
Yes

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