ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Aerial Application Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Coop FE

Aerial Application Drone Operator Intern

Hawarden, IA · On-site

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

As an Aerial Application Drone Operator Intern , you will gain practical experience operating drones for agricultural tasks such as crop spraying, scouting, surveying, and data collection. This role ...

Coop FE

Aerial Application Drone Operator Intern

Larchwood, IA · On-site

$14.75 - $19/hr

As an Aerial Application Drone Operator Intern , you will gain practical experience operating drones for agricultural tasks such as crop spraying, scouting, surveying, and data collection. This role ...

Coop FE

Aerial Application Drone Operator Intern

George, IA · On-site

$13.50 - $17.50/hr

As an Aerial Application Drone Operator Intern, you will assist in operating drones for agricultural applications, including crop spraying, scouting, surveying, and data collection. This role ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsAerial Application Jobs

Aerial Application information

See salary details

$17

$52

$84

How much do aerial application jobs pay per hour?

As of May 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for aerial application in the United States is $52.64, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42.31 and $60.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Aerial Applicator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Aerial Applicator, you need a commercial pilot's license, strong knowledge of agricultural chemicals, and compliance with relevant aviation and pesticide regulations. Familiarity with GPS navigation systems, aerial spraying equipment, and safety procedures is essential. Attention to detail, strong decision-making, and effective communication skills help ensure safe and accurate application. These competencies are vital for protecting crops, ensuring safety, and maintaining regulatory compliance in agricultural aviation.

What are some common challenges faced by aerial applicators and how can they be managed on the job?

Aerial applicators often encounter challenges such as changing weather conditions, managing precise application rates, and ensuring safety while operating aircraft over agricultural fields. Adapting to weather requires flexibility and close monitoring of forecasts, while accuracy is maintained through advanced GPS and mapping technologies. Safety is addressed through rigorous training, adherence to regulations, and regular maintenance of equipment. Staying proactive about these factors helps aerial applicators perform their duties efficiently and safely.

What is aerial application?

Aerial application, also known as crop dusting, is the process of applying fertilizers, pesticides, seeds, or other substances to crops using aircraft. This method allows for efficient and timely treatment of large agricultural areas, especially in regions that are difficult to access by ground equipment. Pilots who perform aerial application must be specially trained and certified to ensure both safety and effectiveness. Aerial application plays a crucial role in modern agriculture by helping to maximize crop yields and manage pests or diseases.

What is the difference between Aerial Application vs Crop Duster Pilot?

AspectAerial ApplicationCrop Duster Pilot
CertificationsFAA pilot license, pesticide applicator certificationFAA pilot license, pesticide applicator certification
Work EnvironmentSpraying crops from aircraft, often in rural areasFlying crop-dusting aircraft, often in agricultural fields
Industry UsageUsed by agricultural companies for crop treatmentTypically refers to pilots performing aerial application tasks

Both roles involve flying aircraft to apply pesticides or fertilizers to crops. Aerial Application is a broad term encompassing various crop-spraying activities, while Crop Duster Pilot specifically describes pilots operating aircraft for crop dusting. The skills, certifications, and work environments are similar, making these terms often interchangeable in the industry.

More about Aerial Application jobs
What cities are hiring for Aerial Application jobs? Cities with the most Aerial Application job openings:
What states have the most Aerial Application jobs? States with the most job openings for Aerial Application jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Aerial Application jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Aerial Application jobs are:
Aerial Application jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aerial Application job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,490 per year, or $52.6 per hour.

Aerial Application Drone Operator Intern

Coop FE

Hawarden, IA • On-site

$14.50 - $18.75/hr

Part-time

Posted 29 days ago

Job description

Job Type
Part-time
Description
Are you looking for an internship that offers hands-on experience in the rapidly growing field of agricultural drone technology? We have the perfect opportunity for you!
As an Aerial Application Drone Operator Intern, you will gain practical experience operating drones for agricultural tasks such as crop spraying, scouting, surveying, and data collection. This role provides valuable exposure to drone technology and its applications in modern agriculture.
Please note: This position may require long and irregular hours, especially during peak seasons. In return, you'll gain meaningful, real-world experience that will set you apart in the agricultural technology field.
Requirements
Key Responsibilities:
  • Drone Operation: Assist in operating drones for aerial application tasks such as crop spraying and surveying.
  • Pre-Flight Inspections: Conduct pre-flight inspections to ensure drones are in optimal condition.
  • Flight Planning: Help plan flight paths and assess weather conditions to ensure safe and efficient operations.
  • Data Collection: Collect and analyze data from drone flights to support agricultural decision-making.
  • Maintenance: Perform routine maintenance and minor repairs on drones to ensure operational readiness.
  • Compliance: Ensure all operations comply with FAA regulations and company policies.
  • Safety Protocols: Follow safety protocols and conduct risk assessments before each flight.
  • Documentation: Maintain detailed logs of flight operations, equipment maintenance, and any incidents.
  • Ag Operations: Assist the drone team in delivering chemicals, water, parts, and other supplies.
  • Other Duties as Assigned
Qualifications:
  • Education: Currently pursuing a degree in Agriculture, Engineering, or a related field.
  • Certification: FAA Part 107 certification or willingness to obtain it. State Applicator's License or willingness to obtain it. Must be able to pass a Class 3 FAA medical exam.
  • Technical Skills: Basic understanding of drone technology and software.
  • Attention to Detail: Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety.
  • Communication: Good communication skills to coordinate with team members and clients.
  • Problem-Solving: Ability to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues.
Preferred Skills:
  • Experience with various drone models and agricultural applications.
  • Familiarity with GIS (Geographic Information Systems) and data analysis tools.
  • Knowledge of agricultural practices and crop management.

Don't wait - spots will fill up fast!
Apply online or send your resume to hr@coopfe.com

Apply