Agricultural Drone Pilot & Data Analyst

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 650,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Flexible working arrangements

Continuous learning opportunities

Exposure to cutting-edge agricultural技

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a skilled Agricultural Drone Pilot & Data Analyst in the Stellenbosch region. The role combines field drone operations with data processing and reporting to help farmers optimize crop management.

The candidate will plan flights, process multispectral, thermal, and RGB data, and generate actionable insights. A SACAA agricultural-endorsed drone license and 3+ years of experience are required; hybrid work is offered.

Qualifications

• SACAA drone pilot license with agricultural endorsements.
• Minimum 3 years of drone operation experience in agriculture.
• Proficiency with agricultural drone flight planning software.
• Experience with drone data processing software (Pix4D, DroneDeploy, Metashape).
• Ability to interpret multispectral, thermal, and RGB imagery for agricultural analysis.
• Basic understanding of agronomy and crop physiology.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to work independently and in a hybrid environment.
• Outdoor work and equipment handling capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute agricultural drone flights for aerial imaging and data collection using multispectral, thermal, and RGB sensors.
• Operate drones safely, following aviation regulations and safety protocols.
• Process and analyze drone data to create maps, models, and reports (NDVI maps, 3D terrain).
• Interpret drone-derived data to identify crop stress, nutrient deficiencies, pests, and irrigation issues.
• Collaborate with farmers and agronomists to tailor data-driven recommendations.
• Maintain and troubleshoot drone equipment and software.
• Stay updated with drone tech advancements and sensing capabilities.
• Manage flight logs, data storage, and client reporting systems.
• Provide training and support on drone operations and data analysis.

Skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving

Communication skills

Customer service

Time management

Hybrid work adaptability

Tools

Pix4D

DroneDeploy

Agisoft Metashape

Flight planning software

Flight control systems

Job description

About the Role

Our client, an innovative agricultural technology company operating in the Stellenbosch region, is seeking a skilled Agricultural Drone Pilot & Data Analyst. This role is essential for leveraging advanced drone technology to provide comprehensive farm monitoring and data analysis services. The ideal candidate will be a certified drone pilot with extensive experience in agricultural applications, including aerial imaging and data collection. You will be responsible for planning and executing drone flights, operating specialized sensors, and processing the collected data into actionable insights for farmers. This position offers a hybrid work model, combining on-site field operations and data analysis with potential for remote analysis and reporting. You will play a key role in helping farms optimize crop management, detect issues early, and improve overall efficiency. This is a dynamic role for a technically proficient individual passionate about the intersection of agriculture and technology.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and execute agricultural drone flights for aerial imaging, surveying, and data collection using various sensor payloads (e.g., multispectral, thermal, RGB).
• Operate drones safely and efficiently, adhering to all aviation regulations and company safety protocols.
• Process and analyze raw drone data using specialized software to generate maps, models, and reports (e.g., NDVI maps, 3D terrain models, plant health assessments).
• Interpret drone-derived data to identify crop stress, nutrient deficiencies, pest infestations, and irrigation issues.
• Collaborate with farmers and agronomists to understand their needs and provide tailored data-driven recommendations.
• Maintain and troubleshoot drone equipment, sensors, and related software.
• Stay current with advancements in drone technology, agricultural sensors, and data analysis techniques.
• Manage flight logs, data storage, and client reporting systems.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant aviation regulations and data privacy standards.
• Provide training and support to new team members on drone operations and data analysis.

Requirements

• Valid South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) drone pilot license with agricultural endorsements.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience operating drones for agricultural applications.
• Proficiency in agricultural drone flight planning software and flight control systems.
• Strong experience with drone data processing software (e.g., Pix4D, DroneDeploy, Agisoft Metashape).
• Ability to interpret multispectral, thermal, and RGB imagery for agricultural analysis.
• Good understanding of basic agronomy and crop physiology.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, managing time effectively in a hybrid environment.
• Physical ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions and handle drone equipment.

Benefits

• Competitive remuneration package for contract role.
• Opportunity to work with cutting-edge agricultural technology.
• Exposure to diverse farming operations and crop types.
• Flexible working arrangements within the hybrid model.
• Contribution to sustainable agricultural practices.
• Continuous learning and skill development opportunities.