Sensor Operator - Manned Aircraft

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

As a Sensor Operator at SAM, you will play a critical role in capturing high-quality geospatial data that supports major infrastructure and environmental projects across the country. Working aboard small aircraft and helicopters, you’ll operate advanced aerial sensors and ensure accurate data collection in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in the field, enjoys complex technology, and has a passion for aviation.

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

EEO

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

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.

As a Sensor Operator at SAM, you will play a critical role in capturing high-quality geospatial data that supports major infrastructure and environmental projects across the country. Working aboard small aircraft and helicopters, you’ll operate advanced aerial sensors and ensure accurate data collection in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in the field, enjoys complex technology, and has a passion for aviation.

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.