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Visual Observer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

UAS Operations Support Specialist

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$54K - $73K/yr

May perform airspace monitoring and visual observation duties as required by the operating model Requirements * Experience in drone operations, aviation, logistics, field operations, or technical ...

UAS Operations Support Specialist

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$55K - $74K/yr

May perform airspace monitoring and visual observation duties as required by the operating model Requirements * Experience in drone operations, aviation, logistics, field operations, or technical ...

May perform airspace monitoring and visual observation duties as required by the operating model Requirements * Experience in drone operations, aviation, logistics, field operations, or technical ...

UAS Operations Support Specialist

San Francisco, CA ยท On-site

$60K - $81K/yr

May perform airspace monitoring and visual observation duties as required by the operating model Requirements * Experience in drone operations, aviation, logistics, field operations, or technical ...

UAS Operations Support Specialist

San Diego, CA ยท On-site

$54K - $73K/yr

May perform airspace monitoring and visual observation duties as required by the operating model Requirements * Experience in drone operations, aviation, logistics, field operations, or technical ...

May perform airspace monitoring and visual observation duties as required by the operating model Requirements * Experience in drone operations, aviation, logistics, field operations, or technical ...

Showing results 21-40

Visual Observer information

What is a visual observer?

Visual observers are individuals who assist drone pilots by maintaining a visual line of sight with the drone during flight operations. Their main role is to help ensure the safety of the flight by spotting potential hazards, such as other aircraft, people, or obstacles, and communicating these to the remote pilot. Visual observers are especially important in operations where the drone may be flying beyond the pilot's direct view, such as in complex or extended operations. They work as part of a team to comply with regulations and enhance situational awareness. In many cases, their presence is required by aviation authorities like the FAA to maintain safe drone operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a visual observer?

To thrive as a Visual Observer, you need keen observational skills, situational awareness, and a thorough understanding of relevant aviation regulations, often supported by completion of FAA training or Part 107 certification. Familiarity with flight planning software, two-way radios, and drone operation systems is typically required. Strong communication, attention to detail, and teamwork help Visual Observers effectively coordinate with Remote Pilots and maintain safety. These skills ensure compliance with safety protocols and help prevent accidents during drone operations.

What are some common challenges visual observers face when supporting drone operations, and how can they be managed?

Visual Observers often face challenges such as maintaining constant situational awareness, communicating clearly with remote pilots, and adapting to changing weather or lighting conditions. Staying alert for extended periods and scanning for potential hazards, such as other aircraft or obstacles, can be demanding. Effective teamwork, regular communication, and practicing standard procedures help address these challenges and ensure the safety and success of drone missions.

What is the difference between Visual Observer vs Signal Person?

AspectVisual ObserverSignal Person
CertificationsOften requires OSHA or industry-specific safety trainingRequires OSHA or industry-specific safety training, including hand signals
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, crane operations, or outdoor workConstruction sites, crane operations, or outdoor work
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly used in construction, crane, and rigging industriesCommonly used in crane operations, construction, and heavy equipment work
Primary RoleTo observe and communicate hazards visuallyTo communicate signals to crane operators or equipment operators

Both Visual Observers and Signal Persons work in construction and crane environments, often requiring safety training. While Visual Observers focus on hazard detection and communication, Signal Persons primarily give hand signals to guide equipment operators. Understanding these roles helps ensure safety and efficiency on job sites.

What are the most commonly searched types of Visual Observer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Visual Observer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Visual Observer jobs in California?

For Visual Observer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Visual Observer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Visual Observer jobs in California are:

Infographic showing various Visual Observer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.

Weather Technician/Observer with Security Clearance

Amentum

Paso Robles, CA โ€ข On-site

$40/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago


Job description

Amentum is seeking a Weather Technician/Observer for the Space Force Range Contract. Typical Duties * Report to and receiving directions from the Weather Systems Manager * Support completion of upper air observations using computer data and platform. This assignment requires the attention of one certified observer from the time of instrument preflight through the final transmission of data (approximately 3 hours). * Operate the VSFB Representative Weather Observatory (RWO) during airfield operating hours (normally, Monday through Friday, 0730 to 1700 hours local time) to include after-hours or weekend support when airfield is open, to perform upper air and surface observations consistent with AFMAN 15-111 and AFMAN 15-124, FMH-3, and IAW 30 SWI 15-101 or supporting OPLANs * Perform daily upper air balloon observations at 0000 and 1200 UTC (Coordinated Universal Time) every day. * Perform weather observations at VSFB Weather Stations during airfield operating hours 24/7 in support of the National Airborne Operations Center (NAOC). * Support launch operations through nominal launch and/or scrub, and until mission requirements are completed. Ground operations safety requirements, which must be managed through scheduling and staffing, include maximum 12-hour shift with at least 8 hours of rest after 12 hours of work, a maximum of 60 hours per week, a maximum of 14 consecutive calendar days. * Perform other duties as assigned. Minimum Requirements: * A High School Diploma/GED * Employees shall have a current Surface Observation certification or have had at least two (2) years of experience with a Department of Defense (DoD), Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), or National Weather Service (NWS) agency in taking, recording, encoding, and disseminating surface observations using Meteorological Aviation Report (METAR) code. * Employees shall maintain certification requirements as long as they are employed. * Employees must have at least 20/20 vision or visual acuity correctable to 20/20 with glasses or contact lenses. * Maintain the prescribed observer qualification-training program. covering information on local operating instructions and procedures related to all observing duties, to include surface and upper air observations consistent with AFMAN 15-111, AFMAN 15-124, and FCM-H3-1997, and IAW 30 SWI 15-101 or supporting OPLANs. * Pass a closed-book qualification examination and demonstrate that the observer can accomplish a correct observation and meet all transmission schedules. This demonstration must include the use of both primary and backup systems for basic weather watch observations and balloon observations. * Must be able to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret Security Clearance, which includes U.S. citizenship * Valid U.S. Driver's License required Salary and Other Compensation The annual starting salary for this position is between $35.00 - $40.00 hourly. Factors which may affect starting pay within this range include geography/market, skills, education, experience, and other qualifications of the successful candidate. Benefits The Company offers the following benefits for this position, subject to applicable eligibility requirements: medical insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, 401(k) retirement plan, life insurance, long-term disability insurance, short-term disability insurance, paid time off, paid parental leave, and paid holidays annually. Compensation Details:
$40.00 The compensation range or hourly rate listed for this position is provided as a good-faith estimate of what the company intends to offer for this role at the time this posting was issued. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as job responsibilities, education, experience, skills, internal equity, market data, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and relevant laws. Benefits Overview: Our health and welfare benefits are designed to support you and your priorities. Offerings include: * Health, dental, and vision insurance * Paid time off and holidays * Retirement benefits (including 401(k) matching) * Educational reimbursement * Parental leave * Employee stock purchase plan * Tax-saving options * Disability and life insurance * Pet insurance Note: Benefits may vary based on employment type, location, and applicable agreements. Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract Act (SCA), or other employment contracts may include different provisions/benefits. Original Posting:
05/26/2026 - Until Filled
Amentum anticipates this job requisition will remain open for at least three days, with a closing date no earlier than three days after the original posting. This timeline may change based on business needs. Amentum is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our hiring practices provide equal opportunity for employment without regard to race, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding), age, ancestry, United States military or veteran status, color, religion, creed, marital or domestic partner status, medical condition, genetic information, national origin, citizenship status, low-income status, or mental or physical disability so long as the essential functions of the job can be performed with or without reasonable accommodation, or any other protected category under federal, state, or local law. Learn more about your rights under Federal laws and supplemental language at Labor Laws Posters .