Remote Sensing Technicians
Human Advantage 66%
Significant human skills needed
AI Automation Risk Moderate Risk
3.5 / 10
Some tasks in this role may be augmented by AI, but human oversight and interpersonal skills remain important.
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.
Also Known As: Commercial Drone Operator, Commercial Drone Pilot, Commercial Drone Technician, Digital Cartographic Technician, Document Image Technician, Drone Operator, Drone Pilot, Drone Technician +29 more
Core Tasks
- 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.
Supplemental Tasks (9)
- Correct raw data for errors due to factors such as skew or atmospheric variation.
- Calibrate data collection equipment.
- Develop or maintain geospatial information databases.
- Monitor raw data quality during collection, and make equipment corrections as necessary.
- Maintain records of survey data.
- Evaluate remote sensing project requirements to determine the types of equipment or computer software necessary to meet project requirements, such as specific image types or output resolutions.
- Collect verification data on the ground, using equipment such as global positioning receivers, digital cameras, or notebook computers.
- Document methods used and write technical reports containing information collected.
- Develop specialized computer software routines to customize and integrate image analysis.
Education & Training
Job Zone 4 Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed
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.
On-the-Job Training: Employees in these occupations usually need several years of work-related experience, on-the-job training, and/or vocational training.
Education Level Distribution
Percentage of workers in this occupation with each education level.
Technology & Tools
Hot Technologies
Software (95)
Tools & Equipment (33)
Where This Career Leads
Career progression organized by specialty track and experience level.
Conservation & Land Management Advanced Manufacturing
Zone 4
Remote Sensing Technicians You are here
Zone 5
Environmental Restoration Planners 79% match
Ecological Research & Development Advanced Manufacturing
Zone 3
Forest and Conservation Technicians 78% match
Zone 4
Remote Sensing Technicians You are here
Zone 5
Architectural and Engineering Managers 79% match
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