Remote sensing technology is used to solve problems in natural resource management, farming, urban planning, homeland security, and other areas by using photographic data. Remote sensing scientists, technologists, and technicians produce and interpret the images gathered by this technology. Remote sensing technicians first determine the data a project calls for, typically on behalf of surveyors, engineers, and remote sensing scientists. Then they develop a flight plan to acquire the relevant images, using survey cameras or sensors mounted on drones to collect aerial photography. After checking the images for accuracy, they often enhance them to highlight the data needed for their project. Remote sensing scientists and technologists use statistical analysis software and geographic information systems to analyze and manage data from remote sensing systems, such as aircraft, satellites, or ground based sources. They use images, confirmed by data from field surveys and weather reports, to build databases, create maps, and track different measurements of environmental and climate change. Scientists and technologists also prepare and deliver reports, and explore new ways to use remote sensing technology. Most remote sensing technician positions require a bachelor’s degree in the field, and work experience. Remote sensing scientists and technologists typically need a master's degree, or Ph.D. along with work experience in the field. Courses in geography, cartography, and meteorology are helpful for all positions.
What they do:
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.
On the job, you would:
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.
Math and Science
geography
arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, or statistics
Engineering and Technology
computers and electronics
product and service development
Business
customer service
Manufactured or Agricultural Goods
manufacture and distribution of products
Basic Skills
thinking about the pros and cons of different ways to solve a problem
reading work related information
Problem Solving
noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it
People and Technology Systems
figuring out how a system should work and how changes in the future will affect it
thinking about the pros and cons of different options and picking the best one
Ideas and Logic
notice when problems happen
order or arrange things
Verbal
communicate by speaking
listen and understand what people say
Math
choose the right type of math to solve a problem
add, subtract, multiply, or divide
Visual Understanding
see hidden patterns
People interested in this work like activities that include practical, hands-on problems and solutions.
They do well at jobs that need:
Attention to Detail
Analytical Thinking
Dependability
Initiative
Persistence
Achievement/Effort
You might use software like this on the job:
Analytical or scientific software
SAS
The MathWorks MATLAB
Presentation software
Microsoft PowerPoint
Map creation software
ESRI ArcGIS software
Leica Geosystems ERDAS IMAGINE
bachelor's degree usually needed
Get started on your career:
New job opportunities are very likely in the future.
$50,550
$30,050
$81,710
You might like a career in one of these industries:
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