Remote Sensing Scientists and Technologists

Apply remote sensing principles and methods to analyze data and solve problems in areas such as natural resource management, urban planning, or homeland security. May develop new sensor systems, analytical techniques, or new applications for existing systems.

Median Annual Wage: $94,030

Education: Master's degree (50%); Bachelor's degree (38%); Post-secondary certificate (4%)

Projected Growth: Slower than average (3% to 7%)

Related Job Titles: Scientist; Research Scientist; Remote Sensing Analyst; Geospatial Intelligence Analyst; Remote Sensing Program Manager; Remote Sensing Scientist; Sensor Specialist

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Source: O*NET OnLine information for Remote Sensing Scientists and Technologists.

More Life, Physical, and Social Science Careers

  • Manage or analyze data obtained from remote sensing systems to obtain meaningful results.
  • Process aerial or satellite imagery to create products such as land cover maps.
  • Develop or build databases for remote sensing or related geospatial project information.
  • Monitor quality of remote sensing data collection operations to determine if procedural or equipment changes are necessary.
  • Attend meetings or seminars or read current literature to maintain knowledge of developments in the field of remote sensing.
  • Prepare or deliver reports or presentations of geospatial project information.
  • Conduct research into the application or enhancement of remote sensing technology.
  • Discuss project goals, equipment requirements, or methodologies with colleagues or team members.
  • Integrate other geospatial data sources into projects.
  • Organize and maintain geospatial data and associated documentation.
  • Design or implement strategies for collection, analysis, or display of geographic data.
  • Participate in fieldwork.
  • Collect supporting data, such as climatic or field survey data, to corroborate remote sensing data analyses.
  • Develop new analytical techniques or sensor systems.
  • Train technicians in the use of remote sensing technology.
  • Direct all activity associated with implementation, operation, or enhancement of remote sensing hardware or software.
  • Compile and format image data to increase its usefulness.
  • Recommend new remote sensing hardware or software acquisitions.
  • Direct installation or testing of new remote sensing hardware or software.
  • Set up or maintain remote sensing data collection systems.
  • Develop automated routines to correct for the presence of image distorting artifacts, such as ground vegetation.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Remote Sensing Scientists and Technologists.

  • Science - Using scientific rules and methods to solve problems.
  • Reading Comprehension - Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
  • Writing - Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
  • Complex Problem Solving - Identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and implement solutions.
  • Monitoring - Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.
  • Speaking - Talking to others to convey information effectively.
  • Operations Analysis - Analyzing needs and product requirements to create a design.
  • Mathematics - Using mathematics to solve problems.
  • Systems Analysis - Determining how a system should work and how changes in conditions, operations, and the environment will affect outcomes.

Source: O*NET OnLine information for Remote Sensing Scientists and Technologists.

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