Engineers who specialise in extracting valuable insights from aerial data. A critical role in the drone industry, bridging the gap between raw data and actionable intelligence.
Remote Sensing Engineers play a pivotal role in the drone industry by transforming raw aerial data into meaningful insights. These professionals work with a variety of data sources, including satellite imagery, LiDAR, and multispectral sensors, to provide detailed analyses for applications ranging from environmental monitoring to infrastructure inspection. They are hired by a range of organisations, from government agencies and environmental consultancies to tech scaleups and research-heavy startups.
A typical week is split between data collection, analysis, and reporting. Fieldwork and office-based tasks are balanced to ensure comprehensive data processing and client communication.
A typical UK progression for remote sensing engineers. Years are guidance — strong people move faster, and many senior folks sidestep into research, product or management.
Assist in data collection and basic analysis, working under the guidance of senior engineers.
Take ownership of data processing and analysis, contributing to project planning and client communication.
Lead complex projects, mentor junior team members, and develop advanced data models and algorithms.
Strategise and oversee the entire remote sensing operation, driving innovation and client satisfaction.
There's no single route, but most people follow some version of these steps.
Gain a strong educational background in geomatics, environmental science, or a related field.
Start with roles that involve data collection and basic analysis, building practical skills.
Focus on specific areas like LiDAR, multispectral imaging, or GIS, becoming an expert in your niche.
Move into more senior positions, leading projects and mentoring junior engineers.
Take on leadership roles, driving strategic initiatives and innovation in remote sensing.
We don't have any matching roles at the moment, but new jobs are added daily.
Flarebright Bicester £39,000 – £49,000 pa
Contributes across the full development lifecycle, from concept and algorithm design to system integration, testing and troubleshooting of safety-critical navigation and autonomy software in C++. Works with a multidisciplinary team on real-time embedded systems, hardware/software-in-the-loop testing and flight test activities, producing design documentation and test reports.
National Crime Agency Gillingham £47,049 pa
Lead drone pilot for the NCA's Technical Operations unmanned vehicle programme, responsible for flight planning and clearances, piloting a range of UAS and USV platforms, and developing innovative technical surveillance capabilities. The role involves training the drone cadre, engaging with the Civil Aviation Authority and suppliers, and acting as subject matter expert on unmanned vehicles.
ECM Selection Cambridge £60,000 – £90,000 pa
Lead applied RF engineering work, advancing signal processing pipelines and developing next-generation prototype technologies for defence and security applications. Day-to-day involves Python data analysis and prototyping (NumPy, SciPy, PyTorch), digital signal processing, SDR frameworks and analysis of wireless protocols. Fully on-site near the Cambridgeshire/Essex border, with security clearance required.
ECM Selection Cambridge £55,000 – £70,000 pa
Hands-on optical engineering role designing systems with lasers, lenses and cameras, taking products from concept through verification and troubleshooting to production readiness. Works closely with electronics, software and AI colleagues in a multidisciplinary team, integrating optical components with electromechanical systems, ideally using machine learning for machine vision.
ECM Selection Cambridge £90,000 – £130,000 pa
Senior engineer focused on mechanical design for drone detection and tracking systems, solving complex challenges, refining concepts and supporting prototyping in workshop and customer settings. Also involved in PCB-level electronics design, overseeing development and integration with mechanical systems within a small, specialised team.
ECM Selection Cambridge £35,000 – £45,000 pa
Engineer the future of defence and securityThis team is motivated by saving lives in war affected regions and on the battlefield. They believe that by combining advanced technologies from different sectors they can fundamentally change the effectiveness of those we...
A degree in geomatics, environmental science, or a related field is typically required. Relevant certifications and practical experience are also valuable.
Fieldwork is crucial for data collection, but the role also involves significant data processing and analysis in an office setting.
Commonly used software includes ArcGIS, ENVI, QGIS, and LiDAR processing tools like LAStools and CloudCompare.
Career progression typically involves moving from data collection and analysis to project leadership and strategic roles within the organisation.
Salaries vary based on experience and location. For more detailed salary information, please refer to the salary section on this page.
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