Join a growing commercial agricultural drone company operating advanced heavy-lift spray drones across Imperial County. This is an opportunity to step into a Lead Pilot role with real responsibility, hands-on field operations, and long-term advancement as we expand regionally.
Specialty Drone Solutions provides regulated aerial pesticide, herbicide, and fertilizer application services to commercial growers throughout California using state-of-the-art agricultural drone systems. We are building a scalable commercial agricultural drone operation and are seeking individuals interested in long-term growth.
This position is transitioning into consistent full-time work as seasonal demand and regional expansion increase.
We welcome applicants who are not yet fully licensed — if you’re the right fit, we will assist you in obtaining required certifications.
Position Overview
As an Agricultural Spray Drone Pilot, you will perform precise, on-site aerial application across farms, orchards, and specialty crop operations.
This role focuses on safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible pesticide, herbicide, and fertilizer application using heavy-lift agricultural drones deployed from a fully equipped mobile tender trailer. You will work directly with growers and field managers to meet seasonal application needs and deliver professional results.
Pilots also assist with on-site preparation, equipment maintenance, and regulatory-compliant recordkeeping.
Key Responsibilities
- Operate agricultural spray drones in compliance with FAA, California DPR, and company protocols
- Perform pre-flight inspections and mission planning for each job site
- Mix, handle, and load agricultural chemicals according to label and safety standards
- Execute aerial applications based on work orders, field boundaries, and crop requirements
- Tow and manage a mobile spray tender trailer at job sites
- Monitor field, crop, and weather conditions to ensure safe and efficient operations
- Maintain accurate flight logs, chemical usage records, and maintenance documentation
- Maintain and troubleshoot UAS and spray system components
- Collaborate with management to refine and improve drone application procedures
- Stay current on drone technology, agricultural practices, and regulatory requirements
Work may include long field days during peak agricultural spray season and requires schedule flexibility, including early mornings and weekends when needed.
Required Qualifications
- FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (or willingness to obtain; support provided)
- California DPR APC or JPC certification (or willingness to obtain; support provided)
- Valid driver’s license with clean driving record
- Comfortable towing a trailer
- Willingness to travel and work in Imperial County
- Strong attention to detail and safety-first mindset
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience operating drones (agricultural UAS preferred but not required)
- Understanding of crop inputs and basic agricultural practices
- Agricultural or farm experience
- Mechanically inclined
- Owns or has access to a heavy-duty truck
- Ability to qualify for FAA Class III Medical Certificate (optional but preferred)
Key Personal Attributes
- Professional, reliable, and self-motivated
- Adaptable to changing field and weather conditions
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
- Able to work independently in commercial agricultural environments
Growth & Advancement
This Agricultural Spray Drone Pilot position is structured as a Lead Pilot role with advancement opportunities into:
- Operations Manager
- Fleet Supervisor
- Regional Agricultural Drone Operations Lead
We are building a long-term, scalable commercial agricultural drone operation with expansion planned across additional California counties.
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive compensation
- Performance-based bonuses tied to productivity and safe operations
- Licensing and certification support (Part 107, APC/JPC)
- Professional development and advancement opportunities
- Work with state-of-the-art agricultural drone equipment
- Company culture focused on safety, innovation, and teamwork
If you are dependable, safety-focused, and ready to operate commercial agricultural spray drones in a regulated and professional environment, we encourage you to apply.
We look forward to flying with you.
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time, Contract
Pay: From $55.00 per hour
Expected hours: 20 – 60 per week
License/Certification:
- Remote Pilot Certificate (Preferred)
- DPR APC/JPC License (Preferred)
Willingness to travel:
Work Location: In person