Drone Program Specialist

AgState•Albert City, IA

About The Position

The Drone Program Specialist will implement, manage, and leverage AgState’s drone technology as part of its Precision Agriculture team. The role uses drone technology to collect and analyze field information, help improve precision agriculture programs, and provide recommendations and actionable insights to growers and internal teams. The specialist will also research and test new technology, including beta testing, and help train future AgState drone operators. The position involves using multispectral imaging drones to capture grower-field imagery, analyzing the resulting data with desktop software, and using applicator drones to apply crop-protection products such as cover-crop seeds and micronutrient fertilizers. The specialist maintains and calibrates drones and related equipment, ensures operational and regulatory compliance, and prepares reports and visual presentations for farmers, agronomists, and InSiteCDM Account Managers. The role also supports safe operations, customer service, teamwork, and ongoing improvement of AgState’s drone program. AgState describes itself as a cooperative with more than 34 locations throughout Northwest Iowa and emphasizes safety, growth, sustainability, customer service, and employee development. The position is part of a growth-focused and innovative Precision Agriculture team. AgState is an equal opportunity employer that encourages diversity, inclusion, and authenticity at work.

Requirements

Proven experience operating drones for agricultural applications.
Proficiency in drone software, GIS software, and data-analysis tools.
Strong understanding of agricultural practices, crop management, and precision agriculture techniques.
Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
Effective verbal and written communication skills.
Attention to detail and ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Ability to obtain and maintain a valid driver license and a Class B CDL or higher.
Ability to obtain and maintain FAA Part 107 certification for commercial drones in the USA.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Class 3 Medical to operate drones weighing 55 pounds or more.
Ability to obtain and maintain an Iowa commercial applicator license (Core and 11F).
Ability to obtain and maintain a Hazmat license.

Nice To Haves

Part 137 certification is a plus.
Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Remote Sensing, or a related field.
Experience in agriculture, agronomy, or precision agriculture is strongly preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

Use AgState’s multispectral imaging drones to collect images of grower fields.
Analyze drone imagery using desktop software, provide recommendations based on results, and implement new programs.
Use AgState’s applicator drones to apply crop-protection products, including cover-crop seeds and micronutrient fertilizers.
Ensure the accuracy and completeness of collected information and analyze drone-generated data, including crop health, soil conditions, pest infestations, and elevation data.
Perform routine maintenance and calibration of drones and related equipment.
Ensure compliance with regulations and guidelines for agricultural drone operations, including local and national laws.
Implement and deploy programs and identify future programs that support AgState’s precision agriculture technology strategy.
Provide recommendations about hardware and software needs for advancing the AgState Drone Program.
Identify, train, and help certify interested operations-team members in drone use for application work.
Prepare detailed reports and visual presentations based on drone-data analysis for farmers, agronomists, and InSiteCDM Account Managers.
Work safely and efficiently in accordance with AgState Safety Policy.
Provide good customer service to customers, coworkers, and other departments.
Demonstrate work habits that support teamwork and maintain an improvement-focused attitude toward serving customers, teammates, and oneself.
Perform other duties as assigned.