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Those considering a career as a remote sensing analyst are often looking to pair their fascination of the natural world with modern data technologies to help understand some of the most pressing concerns facing our planet.
Sounds exciting, right?
Remote sensing analysts are involved with some of today’s most cutting-edge technologies, such as satellites and aircraft, breaking down complex data from system sensors so that almost anyone can digest it. Whether tracking environmental changes due to human inputs, mapping land use changes in rainforests, or developing solutions for agricultural food systems, remote sensing analysts are making a big impact on people and the world we live in.
If you have a passion for problem-solving and complex thinking, this might just be the career for you.
What Is a Remote Sensing Analyst?
A remote sensing analyst is someone who works with data collected by imaging or non-imaging sensors aboard GNSS satellites or aircraft, interpreting and evaluating the information to gain insights about various aspects of the Earth’s surface or the world’s natural environment.
After analysis, the remote sensing specialist uses the data to format materials that are comprehensible to others, typically by creating things like maps, graphs, and reports. While the materials may vary, most remote sensing analysts work with a certain type of stakeholder, which can sometimes standardize the type of work being done. Depending on the business or industry the analyst is working for, these stakeholders could include environmental scientists, natural resource managers, military officials, agricultural producers, and maritime operators.
What Do Remote Sensing Analysts Do?
A remote sensing analyst works with the data collected by sensors aboard satellites, drones, UAVs, and other aerial platforms to assess the world around us. They use software like Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and other types of image analysis tools to process and analyze the data for all types of purposes, from environmental monitoring to maritime port management.
Some common examples of data visualizations created for these applications include:
- land use assessments
- deforestation maps
- climate change models
- GNSS interference maps
- sea ice and glacier cover
- soil moisture and crop health maps
- natural disaster reports
While one of the primary roles of a remote sensing analyst is to integrate and organize the data into systems and processes, another part of the job is to remain current on all the latest trends and changes in the realm of geospatial monitoring. Continued education is critical for success in this particular field, so attending conferences, conducting research, and collaborating with industry peers is a must to maintain a leg up.
Important Skills and Experience
For those looking to start a career in remote sensing, it’s important to know which skills cater to a successful analyst.
- A foundation in geospatial science. This includes an understanding of GIS, spatial analysis, geostatistics, and cartography—all of which enable you to work with the data that remote sensing technologies use.
- An understanding of physical principles. This encompasses knowledge of sensor operations, their limitations, and how the physical data is collected and disseminated through systems prior to analysis.
- An understanding of sensing tools and software. Tools such as ArcGIS, Python, and QGIS are used for the acquisition, managing, processing, analysis, and visualization of data.
Aptitude and experience are also important considerations for those looking to become a remote sensing analyst.
- Creativity and curiosity. For those looking to break down complex data into digestible formats that anyone can understand, critical thinking and constructive skepticism are a must. Since remote sensing is a rapidly evolving field, these inquisitive qualities will help foster development as new sensing strategies and technologies come into play.
- Industry experience. Like anything, having experience in your target area of interest is a great way to stay ahead of the pack. Internships or getting involved with ongoing research projects through colleges and universities is one of the most effective ways to accrue valuable experience.
5 Key Steps to Becoming a Remote Sensing Analyst
While there are many pathways to becoming a remote sensing analyst, the following process is a good starting point, which can be curated and personalized to your individual goals.
Step 1: Obtain a relevant degree
The most effective first step to pursuing a career in remote sensing is to earn a degree in a relevant field. This could be in geospatial science, environmental science, cartography, or geography—all of which allow students to gain an understanding of remote sensing technologies through applied sciences.
While many students choose to pursue a master’s degree or higher, not all careers require it, so exploring your options throughout your coursework is suggested.
Step 2: Build confidence with remote sensing skills
While attaining a foundational skillset will be part of obtaining your degree in remote sensing, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of remote sensing technologies can drive prospects beyond those of your average student.
Programs like ArcGIS, Python, and QGIS, available through third-party platforms and educational portals, teach you how to do things like manipulate satellite imagery, develop maps displaying environmental parameters, and interpret complex data used in science-based industries.
Step 3: Gain entry-level experience through research and internships
A great way to strengthen your prospects as a remote sensing analyst is by taking advantage of ongoing research at colleges and universities or by finding a position as a remote sensing intern at a business in the industry you wish to pursue.
While research positions at colleges and universities are typically reserved for upper-class students, that’s not always the case. If you are a sophomore or junior, consider reaching out to professors in relevant departments or university connections you may have made to see if you can get involved. It’s a great way to ease into remote sensing strategies and technologies while helping you grow your professional network.
Internships are typically offered to all levels of students, and most colleges and universities have internship job boards with government agencies or businesses that benefit from the help of interns. Internships might include positions as entry-level GIS technicians, analysts, or mapping assistants.
Step 4: Specialized training and certifications
Gaining certifications through specialized training is an excellent way to build credibility and showcase your expertise. Specialized remote sensing certifications can make you a competitive applicant for jobs after graduation. The Certified Mapping Specialist certification from the American Society of Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS), which teaches you about complex data mapping, is one example.
Some other useful certifications include:
- Certified Remote Sensing Technologist
- Certified Photogrammetrist (CP)
- Project Management Professional (PMP)
Step 5: Build your professional network
As with most careers, the sooner you can build your professional network, the better. By following the steps above, you’ll already have the opportunity to build your network, but getting active on LinkedIn, creating a professional portfolio, and becoming involved with degree-specific campus activities can all help drive your career success beyond what is achievable otherwise.
Job Outlook for Remote Sensing Analysts
Current market projections show the remote sensing industry growing at a 14.9% CAGR (compound annual growth rate) and will likely reach a valuation of nearly $27 billion by 2027. A big part of this growth is due to AI and ML technologies, but other factors like commercial space exploration and UAV development are also driving momentum.
Given the state of modern technology and its trajectory, we can anticipate a continued rise in employment opportunities. Some will be an expansion of existing positions as businesses and data strategies grow, while others will come from the new applications of innovative technologies and services.
Remote Sensing Analyst Salary: How Much Do They Make?
According to Glassdoor, the average annual salary of a US-based remote sensing analyst in 2024 is $107,420—up from the national average salary of about $60,000. However, since remote sensing positions can be held at private companies, governments, or even nonprofit organizations, the salary and benefits can vary widely.
If you decide to work with a state or federal organization such as a state-operated natural resources department, you will often see more paid holidays and fewer overtime requirements.
Alternatively, if employed by a private oil and gas company, analysts often see benefits like 401(k) matching or even the opportunity for commission-based work.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best degree path for a remote sensing analyst?
Degrees in geospatial science, environmental science, or geography are great starting points for becoming a remote sensing analyst. Each degree will have a different focus of application, so be sure to choose a field that interests you.
Is certification required for remote sensing jobs?
While not always required, specialized GIS or remote sensing certification can help demonstrate skillsets and expertise—ultimately enhancing your prospects of gaining employment.
What’s the difference between a remote sensing analyst and a GIS analyst?
Remote sensing analysts tend to focus on satellite or aerial imagery, while GIS analysts have a broader role that includes things like spatial analysis and data mapping.
What industries hire remote sensing analysts?
Lots of industries utilize remote sensing, including agriculture, climate and weather, natural resource management, space services, and urban planning.
Do remote sensing analysts need programming skills?
No, but understanding how to use programs like Python or R is a great way to bolster your professional opportunities.
What tools do remote sensing analysts use?
Remote sensing analysts use tools like ArcGIS, LiDAR, ENVI, and QGIS—all of which help with image analysis and visualization for data communication purposes.
Can remote sensing analysts work remotely?
Yes! While not all remote sensing analysts work remotely, there is a growing need for individuals who work remotely on part-time, full-time, or freelance contracts.