Mission Sensor Operator (MSO)

Bridger Aerospace • Belgrade, MT

6d

About The Position

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