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Aerial Applicator Pilot Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NY · On-site

$200 - $400/day

Experienced Drone Pilot - Agriculture Fleet Target Project States: New Jersey, New York ... Candidates who already hold a state applicator license or certification in aerial, right‑of‑way ...

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Texas Commercial Pesticide Applicator license (or agricultural spraying experience). * Schedule ... aerial systems (UAS) industry.

Aerial Applicator Pilot information

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$10

$20

$27

How much do aerial applicator pilot jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for aerial applicator pilot in the United States is $20.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $23.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an aerial applicator pilot?

Aerial applicator pilots, often called crop dusters, are specialized pilots who operate aircraft to apply pesticides, fertilizers, seeds, or other substances to agricultural fields from the air. They play a crucial role in modern farming by helping to protect crops from pests and diseases, improve yields, and efficiently manage large tracts of farmland. This job requires advanced piloting skills, knowledge of agricultural chemicals, and a keen awareness of safety and environmental regulations. Aerial applicators must also be licensed and follow strict guidelines to ensure safe and effective applications.

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

To thrive as an Aerial Applicator Pilot, you need a commercial pilot’s license, specialized training in agricultural aviation, and a thorough understanding of crop science and application techniques. Familiarity with GPS navigation, aerial application equipment, and safety management systems is critical. Strong decision-making, situational awareness, and communication skills help ensure safe and accurate application while coordinating with ground crews and clients. These skills are essential to maximize efficiency, safety, and effectiveness in delivering agricultural products from the air.

What are some common challenges faced by aerial applicator pilots during a typical spraying season?

Aerial Applicator Pilots often contend with variable weather conditions, such as wind and temperature shifts, which can impact the effectiveness and safety of chemical application. Navigating low-altitude flights over uneven terrain or near obstacles like power lines requires constant vigilance and precise flying skills. Additionally, pilots must carefully coordinate with ground crews and landowners to ensure compliance with regulations and to minimize drift or exposure to non-target areas. Maintaining and monitoring specialized equipment is also a routine responsibility, along with adhering to strict safety protocols.

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

AspectAerial Applicator PilotCrop Duster Pilot
CertificationsFAA pilot license, agricultural aircraft certificationFAA pilot license, agricultural aircraft certification
Work EnvironmentFarms, orchards, crop fields during spraying seasonsFarms, crop fields, often in rural areas
Employer & IndustryAgricultural companies, crop dusting servicesFarming operations, crop dusting companies

Both Aerial Applicator Pilots and Crop Duster Pilots require similar certifications and work in agricultural environments. The main difference is that 'Crop Duster Pilot' is a more specific term often used interchangeably, but 'Aerial Applicator Pilot' emphasizes the role of applying pesticides or fertilizers. They typically perform similar duties within the agricultural industry.

More about Aerial Applicator Pilot jobs

What cities are hiring for Aerial Applicator Pilot jobs?

Cities with the most Aerial Applicator Pilot job openings:

What states have the most Aerial Applicator Pilot jobs?

States with the most job openings for Aerial Applicator Pilot jobs include:

Infographic showing various Aerial Applicator Pilot job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,089 per year, or $20.2 per hour.

Agri Drone Pilot - Spray Ops (Contract)

Alpha Drones USA, Inc.

NY • On-site

$200 - $400/day

Other

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Experienced Drone Pilot – Agriculture Fleet

Target Project States: New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Maine, Kentucky, Pennsylvania, Georgia, South Carolina, and Virginia

Alpha Drones USA, Inc. is building a drone pilot placement and workforce platform that connects qualified drone professionals with real commercial UAS opportunities across our growing fleet ecosystem. As both a drone fleet operator and a workforce partner, Alpha Drones supports client projects across agriculture and other commercial drone service areas, helping organizations access trained pilots, specialized equipment, and mission‑ready drone operations.

Alpha Drones USA is currently seeking experienced drone pilots for contract/project‑based assignments with our agriculture fleet. This role is designed for pilots who already hold an FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate, have a current FAA medical certificate, and have hands‑on experience operating drones for agricultural or related spraying applications.

Assignments are based on project availability, pilot qualifications, licensing, location, and client needs. This is a 1099 contractor role and does not provide guaranteed full‑time hours.

Job Summary:
  • Operate Alpha Drones equipment for agriculture spraying assignments
  • Conduct drone‑based spraying applications for agriculture, crop spraying, right‑of‑way, turf, forestry, mosquito/vector control, or related use cases
  • Support spray planning, equipment setup, calibration, flight operations, and post‑flight procedures
  • Perform or assist with chemical mixing and loading as permitted by applicable law, project requirements, product labels, and Alpha Drones USA standard operating procedures
  • Complete pre‑flight checks, equipment inspections, battery checks, maintenance checks, and operational readiness reviews
  • Maintain accurate flight logs, spray records, project documentation, and equipment records
  • Follow FAA regulations, state pesticide and application laws, Alpha Drones USA SOPs, product label requirements, environmental restrictions, and all project‑specific safety protocols
  • Work outdoors in active field environments and variable weather conditions
  • Travel regionally for project assignments; overnight travel and multi‑day assignments may be required
  • Coordinate with Alpha Drones team members, project managers, clients, and other field personnel to support safe and successful project completion
Job Requirements:
  • Must be 18 years of age or older
  • Must hold a current FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate
  • Must hold a current FAA medical certificate
  • Must have a valid driver’s license
  • Must have 1–3+ years of drone operating experience
  • Must have hands‑on experience with drone‑based spraying applications, including agriculture, crop spraying, right‑of‑way, turf, forestry, mosquito/vector control, or related applications
  • Must be comfortable operating Alpha Drones equipment and following company flight, safety, and field procedures
  • Must be able to lift up to 75 lbs. and work outdoors in field conditions
  • Must be available for contract/project‑based assignments based on project needs, location, qualifications, licensing, and scheduling availability
  • Must be willing and able to travel for regional assignments, including overnight and multi‑day projects when required
  • Must successfully complete Alpha Drones USA onboarding and project‑specific training before assignment; onboarding and training are unpaid
  • Must be able to pass a background check
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States
  • Must submit a resume, references, FAA Part 107 certificate, FAA medical certificate, and any applicable state applicator licenses or certifications

State pesticide applicator licenses are not required for this role. Candidates who already hold a state applicator license or certification in aerial, right‑of‑way, turf, forest pest control, mosquito/vector control, or a related category should include that information with their application, as it may support eligibility for certain project assignments.

Compensation and Assignment Details:

This is a 1099 contract/project‑based role. Compensation is assignment‑based, with day rates generally ranging from $200–$400 per day, depending on project type, location, qualifications, licensing, and assignment requirements.

Alpha Drones USA will reimburse approved travel, lodging, fuel, per diem, and other assignment‑related expenses for eligible projects.

This is not a full‑time guaranteed‑hours position. Project placement depends on pilot availability, qualifications, licensing, project needs, client requirements, and assignment location.

To Apply:

Experienced drone pilots interested in agriculture fleet assignments should apply using the Apply Now link and submit the required documentation, including resume, references, FAA Part 107 certificate, FAA medical certificate, and any applicable state applicator licenses or certifications.

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