Airborne Sensor Operator

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Airborne Sensor Operator (ASO) supporting a manned ISR program that will be based CONUS. Leidos will provide contracted aircrew for an ISR aircraft providing imagery and multi-source data for both real-time and after-action analysis. The ASO will be responsible for routine and dynamic target area assessment using full motion video while providing analysis and distribution of multi-source information via on-board aircraft communications systems.  The successful candidate will possess a combination of maturity, skill and experience to function safely and effectively as an aircrew member in a tactical ISR environment. Selected candidates will be required to operate E/O IR sensors, and communications equipment.

THE CHALLENGE (primary responsibilities)

The ASO will be required to execute all assigned preflight, flight, and post flight duties as required to safely and effectively operate an assigned sensor suite supporting a variety of missions. This includes mission planning, pre-briefings, mission system inspection, operation, troubleshooting, post-flight inspections, debriefings, intelligence product preparation and distribution, and mission documentation. The ASO may also assist with performing sensor upgrades and maintenance.

WHAT SETS YOU APART (basic qualifications)

• Must have a bachelor’s degree and a minimum of 2 years’ experience or 700 flight hours as an aircrew member on a multi-place military or government ISR contract aircraft, and verifiable experience providing direct support to SOF ground forces using E/O-IR FMV sensors (additional years of experience will be considered in lieu of degree)

• Have an active Top Secret with SCI

• Possess a current FAA Class II/III Medical Certificate issued within 6 months of employment start date

• Possess a United States Passport that is valid for 12 months after employment start date and be able to travel internationally

• Current physiological training / altitude chamber or previously completed with proof of completion

• Possess excellent CRM skills and be able to apply ORM principles 

• Be willing to deploy for rotations of up to 90 days to various CONUS or OCONUS operating locations as directed by the Government.

• Must show demonstrable interpretation and analysis experience using E/O-IR FMV sensors and be able to produce post mission products using Microsoft office suite.  

• Must be able to successfully accomplish airborne mission / flight operations and image analysis

• Must be able to travel to various CONUS locations for training

• Be willing to work long hours and / or non-regular hours with minimal notice

• Be able to proficiently operate assigned sensors while airborne for extended periods

• Be willing to work and execute airborne missions in Hardship and Hazardous locations

• Previous internal aircraft, air-to-air, and air-to-ground communication experience required

Preferred Qualifications

MX-15/20/25 experience

• Previous ISR Warden experience

• Air-to-Air and Air-to-Ground communication coordination experience desired

• Previous JTAC or Military ISR mission/intelligence product support experience

• Previous ISR and or instructor/evaluator experience in a combat environment is desired

• Previous KUSS, PRC-117, VORTEX, data link experience desired

AMSOPP1

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Original Posting:

September 21, 2026

Pay Range:

Pay Range $59,150.00 - $106,925.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary. Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.