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.
Also called: All Source Intelligence Analyst, Commercial Drone Operator, Commercial Drone Pilot, Drone Operator, Drone Pilot, Geospatial Image Analyst
Median pay
$122,570
Pay for the broader BLS group “Physical Scientists, All Other”
Pay range (10th–90th)
$67,000 – $195,190
People employed
22,300
Whole BLS group
Holland code
IRC
Investigative · Realistic · Conventional
Updated October 2026 · Data: O*NET 31.0 and BLS OEWS May 2025 · How we match careers
Is this career right for you?
These are the things that stand out in this job compared with other U.S. jobs (O*NET 31.0 work context). Answer honestly.
- 1.Are you happy working mostly on your own, with little contact with others?
- 2.Are you comfortable sitting at a desk most of the day?
- 3.Do you want to stay at 40 hours a week or less?
- 4.Do you prefer a steady pace without constant deadlines?
- 5.Do you prefer doing your own work rather than directing others?
- 6.Do you want a job with little physical risk?
Remote Sensing Scientists and Technologists pay by state
Highest-paying states
Annual median pay by state (38 states and DC with published data). Source: BLS OEWS May 2025, for the broader group “Physical Scientists, All Other”.
Remote Sensing Scientists and Technologists salary in every state →
What remote sensing scientists and technologists do
- 01Manage or analyze data obtained from remote sensing systems to obtain meaningful results.
- 02Analyze data acquired from aircraft, satellites, or ground-based platforms, using statistical analysis software, image analysis software, or Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
- 03Integrate other geospatial data sources into projects.
- 04Organize and maintain geospatial data and associated documentation.
- 05Compile and format image data to increase its usefulness.
- 06Prepare or deliver reports or presentations of geospatial project information.
Skills that matter most
- Reading Comprehension
- Critical Thinking
- Active Listening
- Writing
- Speaking
- Science
Knowledge
- Geography
- Mathematics
- Computers and Electronics
- Engineering and Technology
- English Language
Work styles that stand out
- Dependability
- Attention to Detail
- Intellectual Curiosity
- Achievement Orientation
- Innovation
Education and first steps
Share of workers by required education, as reported to O*NET.
How people get started
- Usually needs a bachelor's degree (O*NET Job Zone 4).
- Related work experience: over 2 years, up to and including 4 years.
- On-the-job training: over 6 months, up to and including 1 year.
Most common answers from O*NET 31.0 Education, Training and Experience.
Interest fit (Holland code)
O*NET occupational interest scores, scale 1–7. Take the Free Career Test to compare with your own.
Career changes
Change from remote sensing scientists and technologists
- Geographic Information Systems Technologists and Technicians90% · group pay
- Remote Sensing Technicians87% · group pay
- Geodetic Surveyors87% · group pay
- Cartographers and Photogrammetrists85% · —
- Aerospace Engineers80% · —
Change into remote sensing scientists and technologists
Jobs whose skills carry over best (skill match, their median pay).
- Geographic Information Systems Technologists and Technicians87% · $116,580
- Remote Sensing Technicians87% · $62,280
- Cartographers and Photogrammetrists85% · $81,390
- Geographers85% · $102,040
- Geodetic Surveyors84% · $75,440
Majors that lead here
- Natural Sciences
- Marine Sciences
- Physical Sciences, Other
From the NCES CIP 2020 to SOC 2018 crosswalk.