Apply remote sensing technologies to assist scientists in areas such as natural resources, urban planning, or homeland security. May prepare flight plans or sensor configurations for flight trips.
SOC: 19-4099.03
Common Job Titles
Digital Cartographic Technician
Geospatial Extractor
Meteorologist Liaison
Research Associate
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
KnowledgeDesign flight plans and sensor configurations for unmanned aerial vehicle missions considering weather constraints, airspace regulations, and mission objectives for data collection.
Advanced
KnowledgeSynthesize geographic, computational, and engineering knowledge to develop innovative remote sensing solutions for homeland security and environmental applications.
Advanced
KnowledgeAnalyze multispectral and hyperspectral imagery data for natural resource assessment using GIS software and remote sensing platforms to support scientists in urban planning and environmental monitoring.
Proficient
Hands-onOperate LIDAR systems, thermal infrared sensors, and multispectral imaging equipment in field environments to acquire geospatial data following established protocols.
Proficient
KnowledgeEvaluate geospatial data quality and accuracy against established standards using quality control procedures to ensure compliance with project specifications and regulatory requirements.
Proficient
KnowledgeCompare temporal geospatial datasets to identify environmental changes using change detection algorithms and spatial analysis techniques in ESRI ArcGIS and ERDAS IMAGINE.
Proficient
Hands-onExecute UAV missions with fixed-wing and multi-rotor platforms following FAA regulations and safety protocols while adapting to dynamic field conditions.
Proficient
MindsetIntegrate emerging remote sensing technologies with established workflows while prioritizing project goals and maintaining commitment to data quality standards.
Proficient
KnowledgeApply Python, R, and SQL programming languages to automate data processing workflows and extract meaningful information from remote sensing datasets.
Developing
Hands-onCalibrate remote sensing equipment including GPS receivers and radiometers prior to field deployment to maintain data integrity and measurement precision.
Developing
MindsetSupport interdisciplinary scientific teams through technical consultation when interpreting remote sensing results and recommending appropriate methodologies for research objectives.
Developing
KnowledgePrepare technical documentation and geospatial data visualizations communicating complex remote sensing findings to scientific stakeholders and external organizations.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Remote Sensing Technicians (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
71,400
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $37,310. 25th percentile: U.S. $46,270. 50th percentile: U.S. $60,130. 75th percentile: U.S. $77,990. 90th percentile: U.S. $101,870. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less
$37,310
10% of workers earn the following or more
$101,870
Workers on average earn
$64,640
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
Geography4.3/5
Computers and Electronics4.2/5
Mathematics3.5/5
Customer and Personal Service3.5/5
Engineering and Technology3.5/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
