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Aerial Application Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

RED CAT HOLDINGS

General Application

Torrance, CA · Hybrid

... aerial systems designed for real-world performance. **Note: This is a general application only ... There may not be an immediate opening, but we encourage you to apply so we can stay connected! Why ...

Red Cat Holdings, Inc.

General Application

Torrance, CA · On-site

... aerial systems designed for real-world performance. **Note: This is a general application only ... There may not be an immediate opening, but we encourage you to apply so we can stay connected! Why ...

Pyka

Senior Fleet Maintenance Technician

Alameda, CA · On-site

Our crop protection aircraft offers agricultural services providers and farmers an autonomous tool to make aerial application safer, more precise, and less harmful to surrounding environments. Both ...

Pyka

Deployed Flight Test Engineer

Alameda, CA · On-site

$101K - $125K/yr

Our crop protection aircraft offers agricultural services providers and farmers an autonomous tool to make aerial application safer, more precise, and less harmful to surrounding environments. Both ...

Pyka

Associate Electrical Engineer

Alameda, CA · On-site

$83K - $105K/yr

Our crop protection aircraft offers agricultural services providers and farmers an autonomous tool to make aerial application safer, more precise, and less harmful to surrounding environments. Both ...

Pyka

Electrical Engineer (Multiple Levels)

Alameda, CA · On-site

$108K - $192K/yr

Our crop protection aircraft offers agricultural services providers and farmers an autonomous tool to make aerial application safer, more precise, and less harmful to surrounding environments. Both ...

Pyka

Mechanical Engineer (Dropship)

Alameda, CA · On-site

$118K - $149K/yr

Our crop protection aircraft offers agricultural services providers and farmers an autonomous tool to make aerial application safer, more precise, and less harmful to surrounding environments. Both ...

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All JobsAerial Application JobsAerial Application Jobs in California

Aerial Application information

See California salary details

$16

$51

$83

How much do aerial application jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for aerial application in California is $51.95, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41.73 and $59.81 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an aerial applicator?

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 are popular job titles related to Aerial Application jobs in California?

For Aerial Application jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Aerial Application jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Aerial Application jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Aerial Application jobs?

Cities in California with the most Aerial Application job openings:

Aerial Application jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aerial Application job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 77% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $108,056 per year, or $52 per hour.

General Application

RED CAT HOLDINGS

Torrance, CA • Hybrid

Full-time

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

FlightWave Aerospace is a division of Red Cat, focused on delivering extended short-range, endurance-optimized uncrewed aircraft for mission-critical operations. Best known for the Edge 130 Hybrid VTOL Tricopter, FlightWave combines advanced aerodynamics, modular payload integration, and reliable autonomy to support ISR, mapping, and tactical reconnaissance missions in demanding environments. As part of the Red Cat family, FlightWave Aerospace brings proven engineering and scalable production together to provide operators with resilient, field-ready aerial systems designed for real-world performance.

**Note: This is a general application only. There may not be an immediate opening, but we encourage you to apply so we can stay connected! 

Why Submit a General Application? 

  • Be considered for upcoming openings that match your skills and experience. 
  • Stay connected with our recruiting team for future opportunities. 
  • Get early updates on new roles and company growth. 

How it Works

  • Submit your application through this posting. 
  • Our team will review your background and keep your information on site. 
  • As new opportunities open, we'll reach out if your experience aligns with our needs. 

Background Check

This position will require successfully completing a post-offer background check. Qualified candidates with a criminal history will be considered and are not automatically disqualified, consistent with federal and state law.

EEO and ITAR/EAR Work Authorization Disclosure

Red Cat Holdings provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This position requires direct or indirect access to hardware, software, technology or technical data controlled under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Successful candidates for positions subject to ITAR/EAR restrictions must provide proof of U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residence and must not require sponsorship for export-restricted work authorization.

E-Verify

The company participates E-Verify ensure eligibility for employment and compliance with Right to Work rules.

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