Remote Sensing Technicians
Job Zone 4 - Considerable preparation needed
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.
Median pay: $62,280/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: +3.5% projected growth, 2024–2034 — about as fast as average.
About 10,600 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: Associate's degree.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Collect geospatial data, using technologies such as aerial photography, light and radio wave detection systems, digital satellites, or thermal energy systems.
• Verify integrity and accuracy of data contained in remote sensing image analysis systems.
• Integrate remotely sensed data with other geospatial data.
• Consult with remote sensing scientists, surveyors, cartographers, or engineers to determine project needs.
• Adjust remotely sensed images for optimum presentation by using software to select image displays, define image set categories, or choose processing routines.
• Manipulate raw data to enhance interpretation, either on the ground or during remote sensing flights.
• Merge scanned images or build photo mosaics of large areas, using image processing software.
• Participate in the planning or development of mapping projects.
What's the median pay for Remote Sensing Technicians?
The median pay for Remote Sensing Technicians is $62,280 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Remote Sensing Technicians?
Employment for Remote Sensing Technicians is projected to change +3.5% from 2024 to 2034 - about as fast as average.
What education is typically required for Remote Sensing Technicians?
Typical entry-level education: Associate's degree.
How many job openings are there each year for Remote Sensing Technicians?
About 10,600 openings per year, on average, over the decade.