Drone Pilot

Position Summary

This position is responsible for the operation and maintenance of the unmanned aerial vehicle (drone) and use it to perform crop monitoring, spreading and spraying herbicides and pesticides.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities
This list of duties and responsibilities is not all inclusive and may be expanded to include other duties and responsibilities as management may deem necessary from time to time.

· Utilize drone software to program flight paths according to scheduled applications.

· Carry out pre-flight checks on the drone and associated systems.

· Operate drone in applying herbicides and pesticides according to scheduled applications.

· Ensure the herbicide applications are completed efficiently and in a timely manner.

· Communicate with growers on needs and timing of application.

· Maintain and perform basic repairs on drone and drone equipment as needed.

· Maintain spraying records.

· Work with Herbicide Manager to identify areas of concern or interest.

· Ensure all drone operations comply with local and federal aviation regulations, and other applicable laws.

· Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Education and Experience

· FAA drone certified.

· Alabama Pesticide Applicators License - OTPS.

· Previous experience as a drone operator, preferably in an agricultural setting is a plus.

· High school diploma or equivalent; degree in a relevant field is a plus.

Competencies

· Strong understanding of drone technology and operation.

· Basic maintenance and repair skills.

· Excellent communication and teamwork skills

· Excellent organizational/time management skills

· Strong analytical, critical thinking, and math skills.

· Working knowledge of Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel, and familiar with Teams.

Physical Demands

· Ability to lift and carry the drone and equipment (up to 80 lbs.)

· Frequently required to stand, sit, talk, and hear, and use hands to handle, or touch objects or controls.

· On occasion the incumbent may be required to stoop, bend, kneel, or reach above the shoulders.

· Operate typical office equipment such as a computer, telephone, copy machine, etc.

· Regular mental demands such as comprehension, reasoning, decision making, and strong math skills.

The mental and physical requirements described here are representative of those that must be met by an individual to successfully perform the essential functions of this position.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Working Environment

· Continuous work outside and some office work.

· Travel to other locations to perform applications - 30% of the time.

· Operate according to weather conditions- some weekend work may be required.

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an individual encounters while performing the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

The above statements reflect the general details necessary to describe the principal functions of the occupation described and shall not be construed as a detailed description of all the work requirements that may be inherent in the occupation.

Department: Loxley Operations FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Reports to: Herbicide Manager Position Full-time

Location: Loxley, AL Travel: 30%

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: $20.00 - $25.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
  
• 401(k) matching
  
• Dental insurance
  
• Health insurance
  
• Life insurance
  
• Paid time off
  
• Vision insurance
  

Schedule:

• 10 hour shift
  
• 8 hour shift
  
• Monday to Friday
  
• Weekends as needed
  

Work Location: In person