Aerial Application Specialist

Cooperative Farmers Elevator; Iowa (LA); Hybrid; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

Cooperative Farmers Elevator is seeking an Aerial Application Specialist to operate drone systems for aerial crop applications, plan missions, and ensure compliance with FAA, EPA, state, and company regulations.

The role supports agronomy, grain, transportation, and facility operations year-round, including occasional duties off-peak seasons. Candidates must hold FAA Part 107 and pesticide licenses, CDL, and a HS diploma.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Valid Driver's License required.
• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate required.
• Commercial Pesticide Applicator License required.
• Class A CDL required.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Operate agricultural drone systems for aerial application services.
• Plan, coordinate, and execute drone flight missions safely and efficiently.
• Mix, handle, load, and apply crop protection products per label requirements.
• Collect and maintain flight, application, and operational records.
• Utilize drone technology to support field scouting, mapping, and data collection activities.
• Conduct pre-flight and post-flight inspections and perform routine maintenance.
• Maintain compliance with FAA, EPA, DOT, state, and company requirements.
• Assist with agronomy operations, product deliveries, inventory management, and customer service.
• Support grain harvest operations and transportation needs as business demands require.
• Assist with facility maintenance, housekeeping, and operational projects throughout the year.

Skills

Remote pilot operations

Mechanical aptitude

Problem solving

Safety consciousness

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate

Commercial Pesticide Applicator License

Class A CDL

Job description

Description

Aerial Application Specialist: The Aerial Application Specialist is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of drone application equipment used in agricultural aerial applications. This position supports aerial application services through flight planning, product handling, application operations, equipment maintenance, data collection, regulatory compliance, and customer service. The specialist works closely with agronomy staff and customers to deliver accurate and timely application services while maintaining compliance with FAA, EPA, state, and company regulations. This is a full-time, year-round position. In addition to drone application responsibilities, the employee will support agronomy, grain, transportation, and facility operations throughout the year. During non-peak application periods, duties may include assisting with grain harvest, commercial driving, agronomy operations, facility maintenance, and operational support at other CFE locations.

Key Responsibilities

• Operate agricultural drone systems for aerial application services.
• Plan, coordinate, and execute drone flight missions safely and efficiently.
• Mix, handle, load, and apply crop protection products according to label requirements and regulations.
• Collect and maintain accurate flight, application, and operational records.
• Utilize drone technology to support field scouting, mapping, and data collection activities.
• Conduct pre-flight and post-flight inspections and perform routine maintenance.
• Maintain compliance with FAA, EPA, DOT, state, and company requirements.
• Assist with agronomy operations, product deliveries, inventory management, and customer service.
• Support grain harvest operations and transportation needs as business demands require.
• Assist with facility maintenance, housekeeping, and operational projects throughout the year.

Requirements

Qualifications

Required

• High School Diploma or GED
• Valid Driver's License
• Ability to obtain and maintain an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Commercial Pesticide Applicator License
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Class A CDL
• Strong mechanical aptitude and problem-solving skills

Preferred

• Experience operating agricultural drones or UAS equipment
• Agronomy, precision agriculture, or agricultural operations experience
• Knowledge of crop protection products and application practices
• Experience operating agricultural equipment and commercial vehicles

Physical Requirements

• Frequently lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Occasionally lift up to 75 pounds with assistance.
• Ability to climb ladders, stairs, and equipment.
• Ability to work in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel, reach, and perform physically demanding work for extended periods.
• Ability to work around agricultural chemicals while following all required safety procedures.

Work Environment

The work environment includes agronomy facilities, chemical warehouses, aircraft loading areas, grain facilities, equipment yards, and outdoor work settings. Exposure to agricultural chemicals, dust, noise, moving machinery, and varying weather conditions is expected.

Disclaimer

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. Duties may be modified to meet business needs.

Recommended Required Licenses for CFE:

• Valid Driver's License
• Class A CDL (or ability to obtain)
• DOT Medical Card
• Commercial Pesticide Applicator License (or ability to obtain)
• Forklift Certification (company provided)
• Ability to meet FAA and chemical handling requirements applicable to aerial application support operations