Sensor Operator Jobs
Sensor Operator jobs are open across defense contracting, law enforcement, border security, and commercial drone operations, with specializations in UAV payload operation, ISR (intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance), and maritime surveillance, at every level from entry-level technician to senior mission specialist. See the openings below and apply to the ones that match your experience.
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About Peraton
Peraton is a next-generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. As the world’s leading mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider, we deliver trusted, highly differentiated solutions and technologies to protect our nation and allies. Peraton operates at the critical nexus between traditional and nontraditional threats across all domains: land, sea, space, air, and cyberspace. The company serves as a valued partner to essential government agencies and supports every branch of the U.S. armed forces. Each day, our employees solve the most daunting challenges that our customers face. Visit peraton.com to learn how we’re keeping people around the world safe and secure.
About The Role
Peraton is seeking a Senior Sensor Analyst in our Linthicum, MD office in support of our Department of Defense (DoD) customer as part of a highly talented, highly motivated, and high-performing team. This position offers a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of cyber investigations, digital forensics, cyber threat analysis, and mission support in a dynamic and collaborative environment. The successful candidate will contribute to protecting national security interests by leveraging technical expertise, analytical skills, and innovative problem-solving to address complex cyber challenges. Individuals who are passionate about cybersecurity, committed to excellence, and eager to make a meaningful impact are encouraged to apply.
This Senior Sensor Analyst position conducts intelligence analysis and operational planning to monitor, assess, and report on cyberspace operations. This includes identifying potential threats to Department of War (DoW) critical assets, the DoD Information Network (DoDIN), and Defense Industrial Base (DIB) networks, while supporting the US Intelligence Community and Interagency grid network sensor portfolios. The Senior Sensor Analyst plays a key role in shaping cyber defense strategies, conducting reviews, identifying gaps, recommending solutions, and evaluating large datasets.
As an expert, you will research and evaluate technical and all-source intelligence, focusing on network operations and cyber warfare tactics and procedures related to threats against networked weapons platforms and DoD information networks. Your responsibilities will include analyzing sensor data and network events to assess their operational impact, conducting research on adversary capabilities, and preparing intelligence assessments, technical papers, and cyber threat profiles. Additionally, you will develop and maintain analytical procedures to adapt to changing requirements and ensure effective operations, producing high-quality reports and presentations for senior government officials. If you are a candidate that has Cyber Protection Team (CPT) experience, this position might be a good fit for you.
This position will be fully on site M-F.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree and 8+ years of experience, or Master’s and 6+ years of experience, or PhD and 3+ years of experience. A degree in one of the following fields of study is highly desired: Information Technology, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Information Systems, Software Engineering, Mathematics, or Data Science. However, an additional 4 years of relevant experience or specialized training may be considered in lieu of Bachelor's degree.
- Familiarity with Cloud Security Architecture and all related aspects of cybersecurity operations and analysis (e.g., incident response & management, forensic media analysis, malware analysis/reverse-engineering, and threat intelligence analysis).
- In-depth knowledge of network and application protocols, cyber vulnerabilities, exploitation techniques, and adversary methodologies (TTPs).
- Proficient in analyzing various types of network data (e.g., Netflow, PCAP, custom application logs) and employing network sensors to support defensive cyber operations and investigations.
- Experience with Network Intrusion Detection Systems (NIDS) and Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS) for threat detection and response.
- Familiarity with Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) agents for monitoring end-user devices.
- Proficiency in Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) forwarders for centralized logging and threat detection.
- Experience with vulnerability scanners to identify and assess weaknesses in systems and applications.
- Knowledge of log collectors for managing logs to improve incident response and threat hunting capabilities.
- Experience drafting and editing finished intelligence, executive summaries, and other papers on key topics and technical scenarios to prepare senior leaders.
Clearance requirement: Active TS/SCI with Poly eligibility.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Professional certifications in good standing: IAM Level II & III, CSSP Analyst (Security +, GSEC, CND, CISSP, CASP+, GCIH, or CEH), or GIAC Certification.
- Experience with Law Enforcement/Counterintelligence (LE/CI) Operations and/or Cyberspace Operations.
- Skilled in building extended cybersecurity analytics.
- Demonstrated experience briefing Senior Executive Service (SES) and General Officer/Flag Officer (GO/FO) leadership.
- Experience in intelligence-driven defense and/or cyber Kill Chain methodologies.
- Cyber Network Defense Analyst (CNDA) experience.
Details
Target Salary Range: $135,000 - $216,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual’s experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.
Benefits Statement: Peraton offers eligible employees a variety of benefits including medical, dental, vision, life, health savings account, short/long term disability, EAP, parental leave, 401(k), paid time off (PTO) for vacation, and company paid holidays. A full listing of available benefits can be viewed at https://www.careers.peraton.com/benefits.
Application Statements: The application period for the job is estimated to be 30 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates. By applying to this job, you are expressing interest in the role and the Company. During the review of your application, you may be required to participate in an on-camera interview, as well as participate in a process to verify your identity. Use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools of any kind during Peraton interviews is strictly prohibited unless the candidate has obtained prior written authorization. All interview responses must be the candidate’s own.
EEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.
About Peraton
Peraton is a next-generation national security company that drives missions of consequence spanning the globe and extending to the farthest reaches of the galaxy. As the world’s leading mission capability integrator and transformative enterprise IT provider, we deliver trusted, highly differentiated solutions and technologies to protect our nation and allies. Peraton operates at the critical nexus between traditional and nontraditional threats across all domains: land, sea, space, air, and cyberspace. The company serves as a valued partner to essential government agencies and supports every branch of the U.S. armed forces. Each day, our employees solve the most daunting challenges that our customers face. Visit peraton.com to learn how we’re keeping people around the world safe and secure.
About The Role
Peraton is seeking a Senior Sensor Analyst in our Linthicum, MD office in support of our Department of Defense (DoD) customer as part of a highly talented, highly motivated, and high-performing team. This position offers a unique opportunity to work at the forefront of cyber investigations, digital forensics, cyber threat analysis, and mission support in a dynamic and collaborative environment. The successful candidate will contribute to protecting national security interests by leveraging technical expertise, analytical skills, and innovative problem-solving to address complex cyber challenges. Individuals who are passionate about cybersecurity, committed to excellence, and eager to make a meaningful impact are encouraged to apply.
This Senior Sensor Analyst position conducts intelligence analysis and operational planning to monitor, assess, and report on cyberspace operations. This includes identifying potential threats to Department of War (DoW) critical assets, the DoD Information Network (DoDIN), and Defense Industrial Base (DIB) networks, while supporting the US Intelligence Community and Interagency grid network sensor portfolios. The Senior Sensor Analyst plays a key role in shaping cyber defense strategies, conducting reviews, identifying gaps, recommending solutions, and evaluating large datasets.
As an expert, you will research and evaluate technical and all-source intelligence, focusing on network operations and cyber warfare tactics and procedures related to threats against networked weapons platforms and DoD information networks. Your responsibilities will include analyzing sensor data and network events to assess their operational impact, conducting research on adversary capabilities, and preparing intelligence assessments, technical papers, and cyber threat profiles. Additionally, you will develop and maintain analytical procedures to adapt to changing requirements and ensure effective operations, producing high-quality reports and presentations for senior government officials. If you are a candidate that has Cyber Protection Team (CPT) experience, this position might be a good fit for you.
This position will be fully on site M-F.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree and 8+ years of experience, or Master’s and 6+ years of experience, or PhD and 3+ years of experience. A degree in one of the following fields of study is highly desired: Information Technology, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Information Systems, Software Engineering, Mathematics, or Data Science. However, an additional 4 years of relevant experience or specialized training may be considered in lieu of Bachelor's degree.
- Familiarity with Cloud Security Architecture and all related aspects of cybersecurity operations and analysis (e.g., incident response & management, forensic media analysis, malware analysis/reverse-engineering, and threat intelligence analysis).
- In-depth knowledge of network and application protocols, cyber vulnerabilities, exploitation techniques, and adversary methodologies (TTPs).
- Proficient in analyzing various types of network data (e.g., Netflow, PCAP, custom application logs) and employing network sensors to support defensive cyber operations and investigations.
- Experience with Network Intrusion Detection Systems (NIDS) and Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS) for threat detection and response.
- Familiarity with Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) agents for monitoring end-user devices.
- Proficiency in Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) forwarders for centralized logging and threat detection.
- Experience with vulnerability scanners to identify and assess weaknesses in systems and applications.
- Knowledge of log collectors for managing logs to improve incident response and threat hunting capabilities.
- Experience drafting and editing finished intelligence, executive summaries, and other papers on key topics and technical scenarios to prepare senior leaders.
Clearance requirement: Active TS/SCI with Poly eligibility.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Professional certifications in good standing: IAM Level II & III, CSSP Analyst (Security +, GSEC, CND, CISSP, CASP+, GCIH, or CEH), or GIAC Certification.
- Experience with Law Enforcement/Counterintelligence (LE/CI) Operations and/or Cyberspace Operations.
- Skilled in building extended cybersecurity analytics.
- Demonstrated experience briefing Senior Executive Service (SES) and General Officer/Flag Officer (GO/FO) leadership.
- Experience in intelligence-driven defense and/or cyber Kill Chain methodologies.
- Cyber Network Defense Analyst (CNDA) experience.
Details
Target Salary Range: $135,000 - $216,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual’s experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.
Benefits Statement: Peraton offers eligible employees a variety of benefits including medical, dental, vision, life, health savings account, short/long term disability, EAP, parental leave, 401(k), paid time off (PTO) for vacation, and company paid holidays. A full listing of available benefits can be viewed at https://www.careers.peraton.com/benefits.
Application Statements: The application period for the job is estimated to be 30 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates. By applying to this job, you are expressing interest in the role and the Company. During the review of your application, you may be required to participate in an on-camera interview, as well as participate in a process to verify your identity. Use of artificial intelligence (AI) tools of any kind during Peraton interviews is strictly prohibited unless the candidate has obtained prior written authorization. All interview responses must be the candidate’s own.
EEO: Equal opportunity employer, including disability and protected veterans, or other characteristics protected by law.
Sensor Operator Jobs by Experience Level
See All 182+ Sensor Operator Jobs
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Find Sensor Operator JobsSensor Operator Job Market
Who's Hiring
- CrowdStrike18
- Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory17
- Tesla10
- Draper8
- KLA5
Top Industries Hiring
- Manufacturing
- Technology & Software
- Energy
- Education
- Automotive
What Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in sensor operator jobs.
- Active Secret or Top Secret security clearance with current adjudication
- Hands-on experience operating EO/IR or multi-spectral sensor systems
- Proficiency with full-motion video exploitation and geospatial reporting
- FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate or military UAS operator qualification
- Familiarity with ISR mission planning software and tasking workflows
- High school diploma or equivalent with military or law enforcement sensor experience preferred
Tips for Your Sensor Operator Job Search
Tailor your resume to clearance requirements
Many sensor operator postings require an active Secret or Top Secret clearance. List your clearance level, issuing agency, and adjudication date prominently at the top of your resume so hiring managers can qualify you before reading further.
Highlight specific sensor platforms you've operated
Employers want to know exactly which systems you've worked with, whether that's FLIR, MX-15, Wescam MX-25, or EO/IR gimbals. Listing platform names rather than vague descriptions of 'imagery collection' makes your resume far easier to match to open requisitions.
Apply early to roles that fit
Migrate Mate lists sensor operator openings from across the United States in one place, so you can find roles that match and apply directly to each listing.
Target postings by mission type, not just job title
Job titles vary widely: RPA sensor operator, ISR operator, EO/IR systems operator, and UAS payload specialist all describe overlapping work. Search by mission type or platform name in addition to job title to avoid missing relevant openings.
Prepare for scenario-based interview questions
Interviewers for sensor operator roles commonly walk through degraded-sensor scenarios or ask how you'd coordinate with a pilot during a time-sensitive tasking. Practice walking through your decision process step by step, referencing actual situations from your background.
Negotiate scheduling and deployment terms early
Many sensor operator contracts involve rotational deployments or 12-hour shift schedules. Clarify deployment frequency, shift structure, and location commitments before accepting an offer so there are no surprises after you've signed.
Sensor Operator Jobs: Frequently Asked Questions
Which companies are hiring the most sensor operators?
The companies hiring the most sensor operators right now include CrowdStrike, Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, and Tesla, with the largest share of openings in California, Massachusetts, and Maryland, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of November 2026. Defense contractors and federal law enforcement agencies consistently make up the largest share of postings.
How many sensor operator jobs are remote?
About 51% of sensor operator openings are fully remote or hybrid as of November 2026, reflecting the hands-on and security-sensitive nature of most positions. Ground control station roles tied to deployed UAS platforms or fixed-site ISR operations account for the small share of work that can be performed from a remote location.
How do you become a sensor operator?
Most sensor operators start with military service in an aviation, intelligence, or UAS career field, where they receive formal platform training and earn a clearance. Civilians can enter through law enforcement agencies, border patrol, or FAA-certified UAS training programs. Building flight hours with EO/IR payloads and completing a Part 107 certification strengthens your candidacy for contract and commercial roles.
Can you get hired as a sensor operator with little experience?
Entry-level sensor operator roles exist primarily in commercial UAS inspection and public safety, where employers will train candidates who hold a Part 107 certificate and can demonstrate basic flight proficiency. Defense and federal positions almost always require prior military sensor experience and an active clearance, making those paths harder to enter without a service background.
What does the sensor operator interview process look like?
Most sensor operator interviews begin with a screening call focused on your clearance status and platform experience. Qualified candidates then move to a technical interview or practical assessment where you may be asked to walk through mission scenarios, describe sensor employment decisions, or demonstrate familiarity with exploitation software. Cleared positions also include a background verification step before an offer is extended.
Where can I find and apply to sensor operator jobs?
You can find and apply to sensor operator jobs on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings from employers across the United States. Search the listings to find roles that match your platform experience, clearance level, and preferred mission type, then apply directly to each position that fits.
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