Remote sensing technician
Also known as: remote sensing technologist, remote sensing technology studies scientist, remote sensing technology studies researcher, remote sensing technology studies scholar, remote sensing technology research analyst, remote sensing technology research scientist
About this occupation
Remote sensing technicians collect airborne data. They utilise equipment aimed for the collection of data and determination of geographical points in order to help in a variety of operations such as land conservation, urban planning, and military operations.
Essential skills and knowledge
- mathematics
- collect data using GPS
- photogrammetry
- execute analytical mathematical calculations
- study radar images
- geography
- use geographic information systems
- remote sensing techniques
- possess visual literacy
- study aerial photos
- geographic information systems
- keep task records
Typical tasks and preparation
From the related US occupation profile Remote Sensing Technicians (O*NET 19-4099.03). Linked by an official crosswalk: related, not identical; details vary by country.
- 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.
- Typical education (US)
- Bachelor's Degree
- Preparation
- Job Zone 4 of 5
- Interests
- Conventional, Realistic, Investigative
Top skills: Critical Thinking, Reading Comprehension, Speaking, Mathematics, Active Listening, Monitoring
US median pay: US$62,280 a year (2025), 73,910 employed. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics.
Subjects this work relies on
How important each subject's knowledge is in the job itself, rated by people doing it (1 to 5).
- GeographyO*NET: GeographyVery important (4.3)
- Computer StudiesO*NET: Computers and ElectronicsVery important (4.2)
- Mathematics or StatisticsO*NET: MathematicsVery important (3.5)
- Design and TechnologyO*NET: Design + Engineering and TechnologyImportant (3.1)
- English or Literature in EnglishO*NET: English LanguageImportant (3.1)
O*NET data describe work in the United States; requirements differ by country. This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. CareerProof Global has modified all or some of this information; USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.
Preparation needed
Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed
- Most common education (US)
- Bachelor's Degree
- Education
- Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.
- Experience
- A considerable amount of work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is needed for these occupations. For example, an accountant must complete four years of college and work for several years in accounting to be considered qualified.
- Training
- Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.
O*NET data describe work in the United States; requirements differ by country. This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. CareerProof Global has modified all or some of this information; USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.
Related occupations
Occupations O*NET links to this one by similar work, skills and knowledge.
- Remote Sensing Scientists and Technologists
- Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians
- Camera Operators, Television, Video, and Film
- Geological Technicians, Except Hydrologic Technicians
- Geodetic Surveyors
- Surveying and Mapping Technicians
- Cartographers and Photogrammetrists
- Geographic Information Systems Technologists and Technicians
- Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians
- Aerospace Engineers
O*NET data describe work in the United States; requirements differ by country. This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET is a trademark of USDOL/ETA. CareerProof Global has modified all or some of this information; USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications.