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Remote Sensing Technicians

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.

What you’d do

  • 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.
  • Consult with remote sensing scientists, surveyors, cartographers, or engineers to determine project needs.
  • Adjust remotely sensed images for optimum presentation by using software to select image displays, define image set categories, or choose processing routines.
  • Manipulate raw data to enhance interpretation, either on the ground or during remote sensing flights.
  • Merge scanned images or build photo mosaics of large areas, using image processing software.
  • Participate in the planning or development of mapping projects.

Skills that matter

  • Critical Thinking
  • Mathematics
  • Reading Comprehension
  • Speaking
  • Active Listening
  • Judgment and Decision Making

How to get there

Considerable preparation: most need a four-year bachelor's degree

Also called

  • Digital Cartographic Technician
  • Geospatial Extractor
  • Meteorologist Liaison
  • Research Associate
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