Life, Physical & Social Science
Remote Sensing Technicians
Also called: Digital Cartographic Technician, Geospatial Extractor, Meteorologist Liaison, Research Associate
US median pay
$62,280
per year, 2025
Job growth 2025–35
+4.4%
about average or slower
Openings a year (US)
11,200
89,500 employed
Typical entry education
Associate's degree
Preparation 4/5 · Considerable preparation
What this job is
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.
What they do day to day
- 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.
- Prepare documentation or presentations, including charts, photos, or graphs.
- Correct raw data for errors due to factors such as skew or atmospheric variation.
Skills and knowledge that matter most
Skills
- Systems Analysis3.4/5
- Judgment and Decision Making3.4/5
- Complex Problem Solving3.2/5
- Coordination3.1/5
- Time Management2.9/5
- Social Perceptiveness2.9/5
- Quality Control Analysis2.9/5
- Systems Evaluation2.8/5
Knowledge
- Geography4.3/5
- Computers and Electronics4.2/5
- Mathematics3.5/5
- Customer and Personal Service3.5/5
- Engineering and Technology3.5/5
- Production and Processing3.2/5
Importance rated by people working in the job (1 = not important, 5 = extremely important).
Education and preparation
Preparation level 4 of 5 — Considerable preparation. Usually a bachelor's degree and several years of related experience.
Typical entry education (BLS): Associate's degree.
Highest education of people in this job:
- Bachelor's degree62%
Who this job suits
Mostly Conventional
Organising data, details and procedures
Realistic
Hands-on work with tools, machines, plants or animals
Investigative
Ideas, research and solving problems
Based on the Holland (RIASEC) interest profile for this occupation.