Remote Sensing Scientists and Technologists
Remote sensing scientists and technologists use satellite imagery, aerial photography, and sensor data to analyze Earth's surface and atmosphere. They work in government agencies, environmental consulting firms, technology companies, and research institutions, applying their analysis to natural resource management, urban planning, and security applications.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against remote sensing scientists and technologists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves processing satellite or sensor data, running analytical software to identify patterns or changes in landscapes, and interpreting results for specific projects. Scientists might examine forest cover changes, map urban sprawl, or assess disaster damage. Work includes meetings with clients or team members to discuss findings, documenting methodology, and occasionally developing new analytical techniques or testing new sensor systems.
Who this work suits
Holland code IRC. Investigative work is figuring things out: analysis, research, problem-solving. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to enjoy investigative work that involves solving complex problems with data and technology. You're drawn to realistic, hands-on applications where your analysis produces tangible results, and you're comfortable working with technical systems and large datasets over extended periods.
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a bachelor’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Openings right now
- Lead Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist · Indian Health Service · Browning, Montana · $71709–$93227
- Therapeutic Radiologic Technologist · Veterans Health Administration · Richmond, Virginia · $69228–$110090
- Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist · Veterans Health Administration · West Haven, Connecticut · $88945–$115625
- Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (Mammography) · Veterans Health Administration · Hampton, Virginia · $78985–$102686
- Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (MRI) · Veterans Health Administration · Seattle, Washington · $93564–$121640
- Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist (CT or MRI) Recruitment/Relocation Incentive and EDRP Authorized · Veterans Health Administration · Fort Worth, Texas · $79955–$103948
- Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist · Veterans Health Administration · Battle Creek, Michigan · $72890–$94762
- Diagnostic Radiologic Technologist · Bureau of Prisons/Federal Prison System · Bastrop, Texas · $54466–$74361
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $124,590 | $156,730 | $185,220 | 790 |
| Minnesota | $81,780 | $147,890 | $176,440 | 540 |
| North Dakota | $88,990 | $147,650 | $147,920 | 70 |
| Maryland | $93,620 | $141,290 | $185,220 | 1,810 |
| South Carolina | $107,430 | $141,130 | $161,890 | 70 |
| Massachusetts | $104,600 | $138,380 | $158,630 | 350 |
| Georgia | $106,460 | $137,680 | $171,180 | 1,020 |
| Alabama | $117,060 | $135,350 | $166,280 | 140 |
| Pennsylvania | $107,410 | $134,780 | $166,590 | 460 |
| Colorado | $108,680 | $134,440 | $169,170 | 710 |
| Washington | $112,400 | $133,980 | $158,620 | 450 |
| Florida | $106,220 | $131,690 | $178,150 | 340 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Remote Sensing Technologist — American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing - Imaging & Geospatial Information Society
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against remote sensing scientists and technologists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 19-2099.01 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.