Seasonal Aerial Application Specialist

Cooperative Farmers Elevator; Ocheyedan (IA); On-site; USD 21,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive seasonal pay

Training and development

Hands-on drone experience

Job summary

Cooperative Farmers Elevator in Iowa is seeking a Seasonal Aerial Application Specialist (Drone Pilot) to apply crop protection and nutrients using precision drone technology, plan flights, and monitor weather for safe operations.

You’ll gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge drone tech, receive training, and have a chance to contribute to local agriculture while working outdoors across changing seasons.

Qualifications

• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (or ability to obtain within 30 days).
• FAA Class 2 Medical Certificate (or ability to obtain within 30 days).
• Commercial Pesticide Applicator License (or ability to obtain within 45 days).
• Experience with drone flight software and navigation systems.
• Familiarity with aviation safety regulations and agricultural practices.

Responsibilities

• Operate drones for aerial spray applications, photography, surveying, mapping, and data collection.
• Conduct pre-flight checks to ensure equipment functionality.
• Plan and coordinate flight missions based on weather, airspace restrictions, and safety protocols.
• Capture images, video, and other data using specialized equipment.
• Process and analyze flight data for reporting and operational use.

Skills

Remote Pilot Certification

Medical Certification

Pesticide Applicator License

Drone flight software

Navigation systems

Aviation safety regulations

Teamwork

Communication

Tools

Flight software

Navigation systems

Job description

Soar Above the Ordinary: Seasonal Aerial Application Specialist (Drone Pilot)

Ever dreamed of a job with a million-dollar view? Where your office moves and the sky is your workspace? We’re looking for a Seasonal Aerial Application Specialist to join our Drone Pilot Team and help protect crops from above.

What You’ll Do

• Apply crop protection and nutrients using precision drone technology
• Operate advanced equipment and software to optimize flight paths and coverage
• Monitor weather conditions to ensure safe and effective application
• Support local agriculture by helping ensure healthy, productive fields

What We’re Looking For

• Passion for agriculture and technology
• Willingness to learn and grow in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Safety-focused mindset
• Able to work in compliance with our drug- and alcohol-free workplace policy

What You’ll Get

• Hands-on experience with cutting-edge drone tech
• Competitive seasonal pay
• Training and development to sharpen your skills
• A chance to be part of a forward-thinking team making a real impact

Requirements

The Aerial Application Specialist is responsible for operating drones to perform aerial spray applications, data collection, mapping, and other agricultural support tasks. This role requires strong technical skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to safety and regulatory compliance. The position involves working outdoors in varying weather conditions and may require long seasonal hours.

Flight Operations

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Operate drones for aerial spray applications, photography, surveying, mapping, and data collection
• Conduct pre-flight checks to ensure equipment functionality
• Plan and coordinate flight missions based on weather, airspace restrictions, and safety protocols

Data Collection & Analysis

• Capture images, video, and other data using specialized equipment
• Process and analyze flight data for reporting and operational use

Equipment Maintenance

• Perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting on drones and related equipment
• Ensure all equipment is safe, clean, and operational

Communication & Coordination

• Collaborate with ground teams, clients, and stakeholders during flight operations
• Provide timely updates and report any issues or concerns

Documentation & Compliance

• Maintain accurate flight logs, maintenance records, and incident reports

Training & Certification

• Ensure compliance with FAA and other regulatory documentation requirements
• Maintain current certifications and licenses required for drone operations
• Assist in training team members or clients on drone protocols

Customer Relations

• Communicate with clients to understand project needs and provide updates
• Deliver high-quality data and ensure customer satisfaction

Safety & Regulatory Compliance

• Follow all FAA, environmental, and chemical handling regulations
• Attend safety meetings and uphold cooperative policies
• Maintain a safe work environment and report hazards promptly

Other Duties

• Perform additional tasks as assigned by management
• Support other departments when needed
• Represent the company professionally in appearance and behavior

Physical Demands

• Regular use of hands, hearing, and speech
• Frequent walking and reaching; occasional standing, sitting, stooping, kneeling, or crawling
• Ability to lift and move up to 75 pounds
• Visual abilities including close, distance, color, peripheral vision, depth perception, and focus adjustment

Basic Qualifications

• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (or ability to obtain within 30 days)
• FAA Class 2 Medical Certificate (or ability to obtain within 30 days)
• Commercial Pesticide Applicator License (or ability to obtain within 45 days)
• Experience with drone flight software and navigation systems
• Familiarity with aviation safety regulations and agricultural practices
• Background in Precision Ag, farm tech, or drone operations
• Valid Class A CDL or willingness to complete ELDT if required
• Willingness to work long seasonal hours outdoors in changing weather
• Strong communication skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Commitment to a drug- and alcohol-free workplace