Mission Sensor Operator (MSO)

Bridger Aerospace • Belgrade, MT

4d

About The Position

Bridger Aerospace is an aerial firefighting company based in Belgrade, Montana, located at the Bozeman Yellowstone Airport (KBZN). It was founded in 2014 to support front-line firefighters with world-leading technology and aerial fire suppression systems. We have grown from operating a single plane to commanding a significant Air Attack and the largest Super Scooper fleet in the U.S. in less than eight years. Bridger is a leader in fighting wildfires, specializing in Air Attack, Fire Suppression, and Aerial Fire-Mapping technologies. Our focus is to provide the most effective and modern capabilities to fight fires from the air. Meeting the needs of the growing threat of economic and environmental damage caused by wildfires and supporting ground-based firefighters is our priority. About the Role Bridger Aerospace is seeking a Mission Sensor Operator (MSO) to join our growing Team. MSOs are responsible for operating and managing the onboard mission systems, including electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensors, mapping tools, and communications systems during aerial wildfire support missions. This individual plays a critical role in collecting, interpreting, and relaying real-time data to support tactical decision-making in dynamic and high-pressure environments.

Requirements

• 500 hours minimum, 1000 hours preferred of prior experience operating EO/IR or mission sensor systems aboard fixed wing, rotary, or UAS platforms.
• 3+ years of experience utilizing ISR Moving Map applications.
• Strong situational awareness and ability to perform under pressure in rapidly changing environments.
• Familiarity with geospatial tools (e.g., ArcGIS, Google Earth, ATAK) and mapping concepts.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work collaboratively with aircrew and ground personnel.
• Strong attention to detail and technical troubleshooting skills.
• Basic networking knowledge desired (IPv4).
• Willingness to travel and deploy to remote locations for extended periods during fire season.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to obtain necessary security clearances, if required.

Nice To Haves

• Previous experience supporting firefighting, SAR, ISR, military /law enforcement aviation missions.
• Knowledge of wildfire behavior and incident command structure (ICS/NIMS).
• Military or public safety aviation experience.

Responsibilities

• Operate EO/IR and other onboard mission systems during flight missions to detect, map, and monitor fire activity.
• Collect, annotate, and transmit geospatial and thermal imagery in real time to mission command and ground teams.
• Coordinate with pilots, Air Tactical Group Supervisor (ATGS), and incident command to ensure effective information flow and mission execution.
• Monitor sensor and mission system performance and conduct pre-flight/post-flight checks to ensure system readiness.
• Assist in mission planning by reviewing maps, weather data, and fire behavior forecasts.
• Maintain detailed mission logs and documentation for reporting and analysis.
• Ensure compliance with all operational, safety, and regulatory protocols.
• Participate in training exercises, briefings, and debriefings as required.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and growth opportunities
• Company performance-based bonus plan
• Equity stock-based compensation package
• Employer-funded comprehensive health, vision, and dental insurance for employees and dependents
• 401k with company match
• Employer-funded life and disability insurance coverage
• Heath Savings Account (HSA), Flexible Spending Account (FSA), and Dependent Care FSA options

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed