Job Title: Drone Operations Intern

Location: Wyanet, IL

Job Type: Paid Internship

Duration: May-August

About Us: SweetWater Technologies is an innovative leader in the drone application industry, specializing in precision agriculture solutions. Our mission is to empower farmers with cutting-edge drone technology to enhance crop management and improve overall productivity. As a forward-thinking company, we provide high-tech solutions that make a meaningful difference in the sustainability and efficiency of farming operations.

Position Overview: We are seeking an enthusiastic and motivated Drone Operations Intern to join our team and support our commercial agricultural spraying operations. This role will provide valuable hands-on experience in the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for precision agriculture, focusing on crop spraying. The intern will work alongside experienced drone pilots, agronomists, and technicians to assist in the daily operations and learn best practices in drone flight and crop management.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist in operating drones equipped with spraying systems for the application of pesticides, herbicides, and other agricultural chemicals.
• Perform pre-flight checks, calibrate drones, and ensure safety protocols are followed.
• Monitor real-time flight data to ensure accuracy and efficiency during spraying operations.
• Maintain accurate records of flight data, including spray coverage, product usage, and operational conditions.
• Assist with post-flight drone maintenance and troubleshooting.
• Collaborate with the operations team to optimize flight paths and spraying patterns based on field conditions.
• Support in data collection, such as crop health monitoring and spraying effectiveness analysis.
• Assist in ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal regulations governing drone use in commercial agriculture.
• Participate in training sessions and learning opportunities to enhance drone piloting and agricultural knowledge.

Qualifications:

• Strong interest in agriculture technology and precision farming.
• Strong attention to detail, especially in maintaining accurate records and following safety procedures.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team in outdoor, field-based environments.
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work in varying weather conditions and at flexible hours (early mornings, evenings, and weekends, as needed).
• Physical ability to lift and carry equipment (up to 50 lbs) and work in agricultural fields.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Drone pilot certification (Part 107) or willingness to obtain within the first month of employment.
• Knowledge of agricultural chemicals and best practices in crop spraying (preferred, not needed).

What We Offer:

• Hands-on experience with industry-leading drone technology and precision agriculture.
• Mentorship from experienced drone pilots and agricultural professionals.
• Opportunity to contribute to real-world projects with immediate impact.
• A dynamic and fast-paced work environment with growth potential in the agriculture technology industry.