Job Description

the role of an

Agriculture Spraying Drone Pilot

involves using drones to apply fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, and other chemicals to crops in a precise and efficient manner. This role can be vital in modernizing farming practices by making them more sustainable, cost-effective, and precise.

Here are the key responsibilities and roles for an

Agriculture Spraying Drone Pilot

:

1.

Operating Agricultural Drones

Pre-flight checks

: Ensure that the drone is properly set up, calibrated, and ready for operation.

Flying drones

: Operate drones to spray crops, making sure that they cover the correct areas and apply the appropriate amount of chemicals.

Navigation and flight planning

: Use mapping and software tools to plan efficient flight paths that maximize coverage while minimizing waste or environmental harm.
2.

Spraying and Application Management

Chemical application

: Safely and efficiently apply fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides based on crop needs and regulatory guidelines.

Precision farming

: Monitor crop health data and adjust spraying rates based on the specific needs of different areas of the field.

Record-keeping

: Maintain records of the chemicals used, flight times, and areas treated for compliance with regulations.
3.

Safety and Compliance

Health and safety

: Follow strict safety protocols to ensure safe drone operation, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling chemicals.

Regulatory compliance

: Ensure that all drone operations comply with UK regulations, such as the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) rules for drone operations and relevant agricultural pesticide laws.

Environmental impact

: Minimize the environmental impact of spraying by ensuring drones are calibrated for precision and avoiding overspray.
4.

Maintenance and Troubleshooting

Routine maintenance

: Perform regular maintenance checks on drones and spraying equipment to ensure functionality and prevent downtime.

Troubleshooting

: Identify and fix issues with the drone, such as malfunctioning sensors, battery problems, or GPS errors.
5.

Data Collection and Analysis

Monitoring crop health

: Use drones equipped with sensors to collect data on crop conditions, which can inform further treatment and management decisions.

Reporting

: Provide detailed reports and analysis to farmers and agronomists to assist in decision-making about crop management.
6.

Training and Support

Training staff

: If part of a larger operation, you may train other staff members on drone operation and chemical spraying techniques.

Customer support

: Provide advice and support to farmers on the best drone spraying practices and technologies.
Qualifications & Skills:

CAA Remote Pilot License (Permission for Commercial Operations - PfCO)

: In the UK, all drone operators must have a valid PfCO from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to conduct commercial operations.

Agricultural qualifications

: A background in agriculture, such as a degree or diploma in agronomy, crop science, or related fields, is beneficial.

Spray application certification

: A PA1/PA2 certification (Pesticide Application) or equivalent qualification is typically required for safely handling and applying chemicals.

Experience with drone technology

: Practical experience with flying drones and operating precision agriculture technology, such as RTK (Real-Time Kinematic) GPS systems, is important.

Knowledge of safety and legal regulations

: Familiarity with drone safety regulations, flight restrictions, and pesticide application laws.
Soft Skills:

Attention to detail

: Ensuring accuracy in both drone flying and chemical application is essential for both the crops' health and compliance.

Problem-solving

: Ability to troubleshoot technical issues with drones or spraying systems quickly.

Communication

: Working closely with farmers, agronomists, and other stakeholders, clear communication is key.
Career Outlook and Opportunities

Advancement

: Opportunities to move into management positions, such as overseeing drone operations or agronomy teams.

Specialization

: With further training, you can specialize in precision agriculture technologies or in new applications of drones in agriculture.
I

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Permanent, Temporary, Fixed term contract
Contract length: 12 months

Pay: 30,000.00-50,000.00 per year

Expected hours: 10 - 40 per week

Benefits:

Company car Employee stock ownership plan * UK visa sponsorship