Sensor Operator – Manned Aircraft

SAM; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health and Wellness Benefits

Financial Benefits

Work-Life Balance

Professional Development

Perks and Discounts

Awards and Recognition

Job summary

A leading geospatial services company in Austin, Texas, is looking for an entry-level candidate to perform aerial data collection using advanced equipment in remote locations. Responsibilities include operating LiDAR and other sensors, coordinating with flight crew, and ensuring high-quality data collection. Candidates with a passion for aviation and experience with technical equipment are preferred. This full-time position offers competitive pay and comprehensive benefits.

Qualifications

• Experience with flight operations or similar technical roles.
• Interest in aviation and obtaining a pilot's license.
• Basic photography knowledge is a plus.
• Strong computer proficiency (Windows, MS Office, data handling, organization, and file transfer).
• Ability to troubleshoot and solve field problems.
• Learns and operates advanced technology; LiDAR experience preferred.
• Ability to work independently in remote locations.
• FAA Part 107 license a plus.
• Basic photography knowledge is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Perform aerial data collection under the direction of the Flight Operations Manager.
• Coordinate daily flights and troubleshoot sensor issues.
• Conduct field data checks for high-quality data collection.
• Conduct field data checks to ensure data quality.
• Operate in remote locations across the United States with minimal supervision.

Skills

Operating sensors or technical equipment

Communication skills

Problem-solving skills

Strong computer proficiency

Adaptability in remote environments

LiDAR knowledge

Photography basics

Education

FAA Part 107 license

Aviation training or experience

Tools

LiDAR equipment

HD video cameras

RGB, NIR, thermal cameras

Job description

Who We Are

For over thirty years, SAM has built a reputation as a trusted, knowledgeable, and innovative partner. Our licensed professionals transform petabytes of complex spatial data into intelligent insights in a holistic Managed Geospatial Services™ (MGS™) framework. As North America's premiere MGS™ company, SAM provides practical, precise, and high-fidelity solutions designed to enhance decision‑making, mitigate risks, achieve strategic objectives, and drive costs out of our client's business. Our vision is to advance spatial data acquisition, improve analysis capabilities, and develop predictive analytics to redefine and transform how infrastructure assets are developed and managed throughout their lifecycles.

Your Impact at SAM

• Must be comfortable operating in small fixed‑wing aircraft or helicopters for extended periods of time.
• Must be willing and able to travel up to 21 days at a time.
• Under the direction of the Flight Operations Manager, perform aerial data collection using LiDAR equipment, HD video cameras, RGB, NIR, and thermal cameras.
• Coordinate daily flights with other members of the flight crew.
• Troubleshoot sensor issues in real time and perform preventive maintenance on sensor equipment.
• Conduct field data checks to ensure accurate, complete, and high‑quality data collection.
• Operate in remote locations throughout the United States with minimal supervision.

What You Bring to SAM

• Experience operating sensors or technical equipment in a helicopter or small aircraft (prior flight operations experience preferred).
• Interest in aviation and becoming a pilot; candidates with existing flight hours or aviation training are strongly preferred.
• Good communication (oral and written) and organizational skills.
• Strong computer proficiency (Windows, MS Office, data handling, organization, and file transfer).
• A passion for troubleshooting and problem‑solving in the field.
• Demonstrated ability to learn and operate advanced technology; experience with LiDAR or similar equipment is preferred.
• Ability to work independently and adapt to unexpected challenges in remote environments.
• FAA Part 107 license a plus.
• Basic photography knowledge a plus.

Our Perks

• Health and Wellness Benefits: BlueCross BlueShield health insurance coverage begins the month after your hire date, Free Vision + Dental plans for employees, company‑paid premiums for Long‑term disability/Life Insurance (with HSA + FSA plans), SAM Cares program focused on holistic well‑being
• Financial Benefits: Employee Referral Rewards Program of $1K, $2,500 or $5K, Access to Ramsey Smart Dollar to support financial goals and retire with confidence, Fidelity retirement plans with a 5% company match, tuition reimbursement, optional cellphone stipend
• Work‑Life Balance: Flexible hybrid work schedules for office positions, paid time off including vacation/sick/holidays, parental leave to support families
• Professional Development: Customized career development plan for licensing and certifications, Project Manager Business Academy, CAD Training Program, Individual Development Plans/Career Check‑Ins, SAM WINS - our initiative for women‑focused leadership and development, Milestone Anniversary Recognition, SAMbassador mentorship program
• Perks and Discounts: Access to “Perks at Work” for discounts on wellness + travel + leisure and everyday purchases, company‑sponsored events, free office snacks
• Culture and Awards/Achievements: SAM Named 2023 Top Workplace USA for Second Consecutive Year ; 2023 SAM Ranks No. 88 on ENR Top 500 Design Firms

Seniority Level

Entry level

Employment Type

Full‑time

Job Function

Management and Manufacturing

Industries

Business Consulting and Services

EEO

SAM is an EOE/Affirmative Action Employer M/F/D/V. SAM also participates in the federal E‑Verify Program.