Predict the future by creating it

UAS Technology Showcase Specialist

Job Title: UAS Technology Showcase Specialist

Job Description:

The UAS Technology Showcase Specialist is responsible for conducting commercial UAS operations while simultaneously serving as a sales and demonstration expert for Aerial Land Management’s drone technology. This role blends technical flight operations, safety compliance, and sales-driven demonstrations (showcases) to educate potential buyers on the capabilities of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS).

The individual ensures safe, FAA-compliant drone operations, manages mission planning, and oversees ground operations. As a Showcase Specialist, the role requires public speaking, customer engagement, and sales acumen to demonstrate the value and performance of drone technology to potential clients.

This position is ideal for someone with both a strong technical background in UAS flight operations and an aptitude for sales and customer relations.

Key Responsibilities:

Flight Operations Duties:

· Maintain full operational authority over all UAS flights, ensuring compliance with FAA regulations and company policies.

· Conduct pre-flight inspections and verify aircraft readiness.

· Manage flight planning, site assessment, and operational risk management.

· Ensure all flight logs, mission records, and compliance documentation are up to date.

· Handle emergency and contingency planning for UAS operations.

UAS Technology Showcases (Demonstration & Sales Duties):

· Lead live drone showcases for potential customers, demonstrating the performance, capabilities, and benefits of UAS technology.

· Engage with clients, answer technical questions, and provide detailed explanations on drone applications for agriculture, surveying, and industry-specific needs.

· Customize demonstrations based on customer industry needs, highlighting relevant drone features.

· Work closely with sales and marketing teams to develop compelling presentations and demonstration strategies.

· Assist with trade shows, industry events, and field days to showcase UAS products and generate sales leads.

· Provide post-demonstration follow-ups, answering additional questions and assisting in the sales conversion process.

Client Consultation & Product Education:

· Assess customer needs and recommend appropriate UAS solutions.

· Educate customers on FAA regulations, drone licensing requirements, and operational best practices.

· Coordinate test flights for prospective customers, allowing them to experience drone performance firsthand.

Post-Showcase & Sales Support:

· Assist in developing sales proposals and product pricing discussions.

· Gather customer feedback from demonstrations and provide insights to the sales team.

· Stay up to date with UAS industry trends, new technology, and regulatory updates.

· Support customer onboarding after purchase, ensuring a smooth transition into using the product.

Qualifications & Requirements:

Education & Certification:

· FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (required)

· FAA Class 3 Medical Certificate (required)

· 2 Years in P2P or B2B Sales Experience (preferred)

Experience:

· 2 years of UAS flight experience (preferred)

· Previous experience in sales, product demonstrations, or client presentations.

· Familiarity with flight planning software, GPS navigation, and radio communication.

· Strong public speaking skills and comfort in leading live demonstrations.

Skills & Abilities:

· Ability to confidently engage an audience and explain complex technology in simple terms.

· Strong understanding of FAA UAS regulations, safety protocols, and best practices.

· Technical proficiency in UAS maintenance, troubleshooting, and software operation.

· Sales and negotiation skills to convert potential leads into customers.

· Strong problem-solving skills for in-field adjustments to flight plans and demonstrations.

· Ability to work outdoors in various conditions, travel frequently, and adapt to customer needs.

Other Requirements:

· Must be able to lift 50 lbs. minimum and perform physically demanding tasks.

· Willingness to travel for showcases, sales meetings, and training sessions.

· Ability to pass a background check and drug screening.

Why This Role?

This is a hybrid technical-sales role where you will not only be responsible for the safe operation of UAS but also act as the face of the technology to potential buyers. If you have a passion for aviation, drones, and customer engagement, this role offers the perfect blend of hands-on flying and sales-driven showcasing.

Ground Crew

Job Title: UAS Ground Crew (Agricultural Drone Operations)

Job Description:

The UAS Ground Crew is responsible for supporting all facets of unmanned aircraft system (UAS) operations, particularly in agricultural settings involving the application of pesticides, fertilizers, and seeds. This dual-role position combines ground support tasks with the critical function of maintaining visual line of sight (VLOS) as a Visual Observer (VO). The position ensures safe, efficient, and compliant flight operations by adhering to FAA regulations, pesticide handling laws, company policies, and industry best practices.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Pre-Flight Duties

• Aircraft & Equipment Preparation

  • Conduct thorough pre-flight inspections to confirm the aircraft is airworthy.

  • Ensure all batteries, payloads (pesticides, fertilizers, seeds), and communication equipment are in working order.

  • Set up the Ground Control Station (GCS) and any relevant mission planning software.

• Safety & Regulatory Compliance

  • Review the operational area, identify hazards, and confirm compliance with FAA regulations.

  • Follow company and regulatory requirements for proper storage, labeling, and disposal of chemicals.

  • Adhere to federal and state laws for mixing and loading pesticides, fertilizers, and seeds, with particular attention to containment protocols.

• Chemical & Material Handling

  • Properly store, mix, and handle pesticide, fertilizer, and seed payloads in compliance with EPA, OSHA, and state regulations (such as Oklahoma Pesticide Laws).

  • Maintain accurate labeling, secure storage, and safe transport of all chemicals and seeds to the launch site.

2. In-Flight Duties (as Visual Observer)

• Maintain Visual Line of Sight (VLOS)

  • Keep constant, unaided (except for corrective lenses) visual contact with the UAS.

  • Monitor airspace for other aircraft, obstacles, people, animals and weather changes that could impact safety.

• Communication & Coordination

  • Provide real-time updates to the Pilot in Command (PIC) regarding aircraft position and surroundings.

  • Assist with navigation awareness by relaying visual cues, telemetry data, and any potential hazards.

  • Alert the PIC to any changes in weather or environmental conditions that could affect the flight or chemical application.

• Safety & Emergency Procedures

  • Stand ready to terminate or adjust flights when visual line of sight is lost or if safety is compromised.

  • Participate in immediate spill response or hazard mitigation if an in-flight emergency occurs.

3. Pesticide, Fertilizer, & Seed Application

• Payload Management

  • Load and secure pesticide, fertilizer, or seed payloads according to mission requirements.

  • Confirm proper calibration of the drone’s application systems for accurate dispersal rates.

• Application Monitoring

  • Oversee in-flight dispersion to ensure even coverage and compliance with label instructions.

  • Monitor application areas for drift, advising PIC if wind or other conditions exceed safe parameters.

• Regulatory Compliance & Record-Keeping

  • Ensure all local, state, and federal guidelines are followed for pesticide, fertilizer, and seed applications.

4. Post-Flight Duties

• Inspection & Maintenance

  • Conduct post-flight inspections to identify mechanical or software issues and report them promptly.

  • Clean and store all UAS components, including application equipment, ground support gear, and PPE.

• Data Collection & Reporting

  • Document flight details, payload usage, and any operational incidents.

  • Participate in debriefings to improve operational procedures and safety measures.

• Compliance & Safety

  • Assist in properly disposing or recycling used pesticide containers (e.g., triple-rinse method).

  • Ensure leftover product is stored according to regulatory requirements.

Qualifications & Requirements:

• Education & Certification

  • High school diploma or equivalent (required).

  • FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate (preferred; ability to obtain is acceptable).

  • Oklahoma Pesticide Applicator Certification (or ability to obtain).

• Experience

  • Prior experience in UAS operations, agricultural drone applications, or aviation support is preferred.

  • Familiarity with GPS navigation, flight planning software, and radio communications is beneficial.

  • Experience handling fertilizers, pesticides, seeds, or related agricultural tasks is highly valued.

• Skills & Abilities

  • Exceptional observational skills to detect potential hazards and maintain safe VLOS.

  • Strong verbal communication for effective coordination with the PIC and ground crew.

  • Knowledge of pesticide, fertilizer, and seed safety in compliance with relevant regulations.

  • Basic mechanical and troubleshooting abilities for UAS components and support equipment.

  • Physical stamina for outdoor work, including lifting up to 50 lbs.

  • Ability to remain focused and free from distractions during flight operations.

• Other Requirements

  • Ability to pass background checks and drug screenings (if required).

  • Willingness to travel and work in varying field conditions.

  • Availability for ongoing training and certification updates in UAS, pesticide handling, and safety protocols.

Why This Role Matters:

This position is essential for the safe and efficient operation of drones used in pesticide, fertilizer, and seed applications. By combining ground support duties with the vital function of a Visual Observer, the UAS Ground Crew & Visual Observer ensures every mission meets regulatory standards, maintains highest safety protocols, and delivers precise, effective agricultural treatments to clients and stakeholders.

Field Pilot

Job Title
Pilot in Command (PIC)

Job Summary
The Pilot in Command (PIC) is responsible for the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). This includes mission planning, pre-flight checks, adherence to FAA regulations (including Part 107 and Part 137 for agricultural missions), and thorough documentation of all activities. The PIC must operate within strict safety standards and maintain effective communication with team members. This position is typically engaged on a contract basis and may require travel, which necessitates a valid driver’s license.

Key Responsibilities

1. Mission Planning and Preparation

   • Conduct detailed pre-flight planning and risk assessments, including airspace checks, weather analysis, and safe takeoff/landing zone selection.

   • Coordinate with team members to ensure that missions comply with FAA regulations, internal policies, and best practices.

2. Flight Operations

   • Operate UAS following Part 107 regulations for small unmanned aircraft and Part 137 regulations for agricultural operations.

   • Maintain real-time awareness of flight conditions, including navigation data, local weather, and terrain hazards.

   • Adjust flight parameters as needed to ensure flight safety and compliance.

3. Payload and Chemical Handling

   • Oversee loading, transport, and application of all payloads, including fertilizers, pesticides, or other approved chemicals under Part 137.

   • Enforce proper safety protocols for handling and storing chemicals, ensuring compliance with federal, state, and local requirements.

   • Complete all required documentation and reporting related to chemical usage—including quantities, application rates, and any incidents that occur during transport or application.

4. Safety and Compliance

   • Adhere strictly to FAA regulations, safety protocols, and company standard operating procedures (SOPs).

   • Coordinate any necessary NOTAM filings, deconfliction with air traffic, and communications with property owners or local authorities.

   • Immediately address and document any flight irregularities, aircraft malfunctions, or concerns related to public safety.

5. Documentation and Reporting

   • Maintain comprehensive flight logs, equipment maintenance records, and Part 137 documentation (e.g., agricultural aircraft operator certifications).

   • Submit regular reports on total flight hours, chemical usage, and any incidents involving the aircraft, payloads, or crew.

   • Ensure all documentation is readily accessible for audits or inspections by regulatory bodies.

6. Team Coordination and Training

   • Lead or participate in mission briefings to outline objectives, identify hazards, and allocate roles.

   • Coordinate with Visual Observers (VOs), ground support staff, and other personnel as required.

   • Train or mentor new pilots or crew members on best practices, safety procedures, and relevant regulatory updates.

7. Equipment Maintenance and Inspections

   • Perform comprehensive pre- and post-flight inspections on UAS equipment to confirm readiness for operation.

   • Conduct or arrange basic maintenance, repairs, or software updates, documenting each activity per company and FAA standards.

   • Implement flight termination procedures or return-to-home protocols in the event of equipment malfunctions or loss of flight control.

Required Qualifications

1. FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate

   • Demonstrates proficiency in small UAS operations and knowledge of airspace regulations.

2. Part 137 (Agricultural) Requirements

   • For roles involving agricultural applications, must meet FAA requirements for operating under Part 137.

   • Familiarity with aerial application procedures, chemical hazards, and associated regulations.

3. Valid Driver’s License

   • Required for traveling to operational sites, transporting gear, and ensuring on-time arrival at mission locations.

4. Preferred Experience

   • Two or more years of professional UAS piloting experience, with documented flight hours, is strongly preferred.

5. Technical and Regulatory Knowledge

   • Experience with flight planning, GNSS systems, weather analysis, and data logging software.

   • Ability to read and interpret FAA guidelines, local ordinances, and other regulatory documents.

6. Medical and Physical Requirements

   • Must be capable of passing relevant medical or fitness standards for UAS operations.

   • Able to transport and handle UAS and payloads, including chemical containers, safely.

7. Communication and Interpersonal Skills

   • Clear and concise verbal/written communication, especially during mission briefings, debriefings, and incident reporting.

   • Strong organizational skills to manage multiple flight operations, documentation, and reporting requirements.

Compensation and Engagement

• This role is a contract position.

• Compensation is commensurate with mission scope, complexity, and duration, typically on a per-job or per-acre rate.

• Contractors are expected to maintain their own insurance coverage and personal equipment, as applicable.

• Additional or ongoing training opportunities may be available under the terms of the contractor agreement.

Work Environment & Schedule

• Field-based with potential travel to diverse operational sites.

• Flexible scheduling, with flights potentially occurring early mornings, evenings, or weekends based on weather and mission requirements.

• Outdoor conditions may include remote/rugged terrain; strict safety protocols must be followed when handling and applying agricultural chemicals.

Note: This job description highlights the core responsibilities, qualifications, and expectations for a Pilot in Command (PIC) operating under both Part 107 and Part 137. Duties and conditions may vary based on the employer’s specific operational needs and contract terms. All activities must comply with FAA regulations and relevant federal, state, and local laws—particularly regarding chemical handling and agricultural aircraft operations.