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Remote Sensing Scientists and Technologists

O*NET files this work under Remote Sensing Scientists and Technologists: people who apply remote sensing principles and methods to analyze data and solve problems in areas such as natural resource management, urban planning, or homeland security. On the six-type interest model it reads IRC, meaning research, analysis and working through hard problems comes first, followed by hands-on work with tools, machines or the physical world. The preparation level is considerable preparation, typically a bachelor’s degree plus a period of work experience. O*NET’s skill data points to reading comprehension, critical thinking, and writing as the ones to build. One core duty is to manage or analyze data obtained from remote sensing systems to obtain meaningful results. People who want research, analysis and working through hard problems usually fit better here than those who need helping, teaching or caring for people.

What they do

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.

Main tasks

  • Manage or analyze data obtained from remote sensing systems to obtain meaningful results.
  • Analyze data acquired from aircraft, satellites, or ground-based platforms, using statistical analysis software, image analysis software, or Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
  • Integrate other geospatial data sources into projects.
  • Organize and maintain geospatial data and associated documentation.
  • Compile and format image data to increase its usefulness.
  • Prepare or deliver reports or presentations of geospatial project information.

Skills

  • Reading Comprehension
  • Critical Thinking
  • Writing
  • Speaking
  • Science
  • Active Listening

Who this career fits

May suit you if

  • You enjoy working out why something happens, not just what happened.
  • You like ending the day with a physical result you can point to.
  • You are ready to spend around four years on a degree, then build experience.
  • You are comfortable relying on reading comprehension and critical thinking.

May not suit you if

  • You lose interest when a job asks for long stretches of analysis.
  • You want helping people to be at the center of your work. Social rates 1.3 out of 7 here.
  • You want to avoid a four-year degree or its equivalent.

Interest profile

O*NET rates each occupation from 1 to 7 on six interest types. The code IRC takes the three highest, and Investigative comes first here.

Preparation

Considerable preparation. Most jobs here ask for a bachelor’s degree, and employers usually expect a few years of related experience as well.

Most-reported requirement in the O*NET survey: Bachelor's Degree. This reflects what workers reported most often and is not a legal minimum. Licensing rules can differ by state or industry, so confirm what applies where you plan to work.

Also called

  • Geospatial Intelligence Analyst
  • Image Scientist
  • Remote Sensing Analyst
  • Remote Sensing Scientist
  • Research Scientist

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This page includes information from the O*NET 31.0 Database by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA). Used under the CC BY 4.0 license. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.