Hybrid Agricultural Drone Pilot & Data Insights 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

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.