Login

Remote Sensing Technologist

Remote sensing technologists use aerial photos, imaging radar, digital image analysis, and Global Information Systems (GIS) to study the Earth's surface—without ever needing to visit the location they study. For example, a remote sensing specialist might interpret images to understand how a forest fire is moving and whether a nearby community will need to be evacuated. Remote sensing specialists work for natural resources companies, forestry consulting firms, other consulting firms, environmental organizations, and the government.
Back to All Profiles

At a Glance

Imagine using satellite images to build a 3-D map of the area around the magnetic north pole. First, you create a mathematical model to combine the images. Then you update the map with new images of the ice as it melts, shifts, and changes. Search-and-rescue teams have used your map because it shows where the ice has formed ridges and is impassable. Your map is also used by climate change specialists to track changes in the polar ice. The brightest areas on your maps show where the ice is thickest. The darkest areas on your maps show where light has been absorbed by very thin and slushy ice. Every day, your work is like a big, evolving puzzle.

As a remote sensing technologist, you build maps using satellite and infrared images to help scientists monitor the Earth and our impact on it. You work mostly indoors, both on your own and as part of a team. Many remote sensing specialists live in their home communities.

You find it fascinating that you are able to study the Earth’s surface without ever needing to leave your office. The information you develop is used by a variety of scientists to expand their knowledge of environmental occurrences. You feel good knowing that your interpretation of images can lead to a better understanding of current environmental issues.

Job Duties

Duties vary significantly from job to job, but the following list includes typical job duties one might encounter as a remote sensing technologist:

  • Prepare images, graphic reports, maps, and charts.
  • Build photo mosaics of large areas like cities and parks.
  • Operate remote sensing equipment to gather airborne, ground-based, and satellite data.
  • Make sure the data obtained from remote sensing systems are accurate.
  • Assist with the management of natural disasters such as floods, fires, earthquakes, oil spills, and hurricanes.

Work Environment

Remote sensing technologists work in a variety of locations, including, but not limited to:

In the office:

  • Do paperwork, analyze data, and prepare charts and reports
  • Develop maps
  • Create and update databases

Where to Work

  • Environmental and engineering consulting firms
  • Federal, provincial, and municipal government departments
  • Natural resource companies
  • Forestry and other natural resource consulting firms
  • Environmental organizations

Education and Skills

In most cases, the minimum educational requirement to work as a remote sensing technologist is a college technical diploma. The following post-secondary programs are most applicable for a career in this field:

  • Geographical information systems
  • Remote sensing
  • Geography
  • Geology
  • Natural resource management
  • Earth sciences

There is no certification available that is specific to remote sensing technologists.

If you are a high school student considering a career as a remote sensing technologist you should have a strong interest in:

  • Mathematics
  • Computer science
  • Social science
  • Physics
  • Geography

Role Models

Your Impact

Occupational Classification

Reconnaissance des terres

Dans un esprit de respect, de réciprocité et de vérité, nous honorons et reconnaissons Moh’kinsstis, le territoire traditionnel du Traité 7 et les pratiques orales de la confédération des Pieds-Noirs : Siksika, Kainai, Piikani, ainsi que les nations Îyâxe Nakoda et Tsuut’ina. Nous reconnaissons que ce territoire abrite la Nation métisse de l’Alberta, la région 3 au sein de la patrie historique des Métis du Nord-Ouest. Enfin, nous reconnaissons toutes les nations qui vivent, travaillent et se divertissent sur ce territoire, et qui l’honorent et le célèbrent.

Land Acknowledgment

In the spirit of respect, reciprocity, and truth, we acknowledge that we live, work, and gather on the traditional territories of the peoples of Treaty 7, including the Blackfoot Confederacy—comprising the Siksika, Kainai, and Piikani Nations—as well as the Îyâxe Nakoda and Tsuut’ina Nations.

This land, known as Moh’kinsstis in the Blackfoot language and encompassing what is now Districts 5 and 6, is also home to the Métis Nation of Alberta, Region 3, within the historical Northwest Métis homeland.

We recognize and honour the deep connection these Nations have to the land, and we are grateful for the opportunity to share in its stewardship.

As we continue our work, we commit to learning from Indigenous knowledge systems, uplifting Indigenous voices, and fostering relationships rooted in equity, understanding, and reconciliation.

ECO Canada Logo

Site en cours de développement

Nous travaillons actuellement sur la version française du site que nous espérons lancer très bientôt!

Merci pour votre patience et compréhension pendant que nous finalisons la version améliorée du site.

Website in Development

We are working to launch the French site very soon!

 
Thank you for your patience while we finalize the new and improved version of our website.