JOB OPPORTUNITY

Agricultural Pilot / Operations Assistant

Drone Spray Otago Ltd

South Island, New Zealand

Position Overview

Drone Spray Otago Ltd is seeking a motivated and adaptable individual to join our agricultural aviation team. This role combines specialised UAV (drone) flight duties with essential ground-based agricultural operations. The ideal candidate must be highly flexible, as daily duties are subject to change based on weather conditions and seasonal demand.

Commitment Required: Minimum 24-month term.

Key Responsibilities

Aviation Operations

● Execute agricultural UAV flying duties safely and efficiently, in accordance with aviation regulations and company standards

Ground and Agricultural Support

During non-flying periods, assist with various farm and ground handling operations, including but not limited to:

● Tractor and machinery operations

● Fencing and infrastructure maintenance

● Chemical application (e.g., gorse spraying via reel systems)

● Seeding and harvest support

Operational Flexibility

● Maintain a collaborative attitude towards diversifying tasks to ensure consistent operational productivity

Requirements

● The ideal applicant will hold relevant certification and have experience operating UAVs in an agricultural environment in NZ

● Training can be provided for the right applicant (see Training & Compensation Structure below)

● Strong work ethic and willingness to learn

● Strong interpersonal and client-facing communication skills, with the ability to build and maintain professional relationships

● Comfortable working outdoors in variable weather and rural conditions

● Full New Zealand driver's licence

● Good physical fitness and a hands-on, practical attitude

● Exceptional self management skills, with the ability to prioritise tasks, structure your day effectively and deliver results independently

● Previous experience in agriculture, aviation, or station work is an advantage

Training & Compensation Structure

Comprehensive Training

● For the right applicant, training can be provided, with the employer covering the cost of full certification within the agricultural UAV sector (e.g., Chemical Rating, Agricultural Rating), valued at $10,000 NZD and spanning approximately 4 months

● This investment is structured into the contract under a commitment guarantee (see Training Bond Agreement below)

Remuneration

● A flat hourly rate (based on experience, NZD) applies consistently across all working hours, inclusive of both flight time and ground-based operations

Training Bond Agreement

● Due to the significant upfront investment in training and certification, a minimum 24-month commitment is required

A proportional repayment structure applies if employment is terminated early:

● Termination within 0–12 months: Full reimbursement of training costs

● Termination within 12–24 months: Pro-rata reimbursement of half the training costs

Relocation & Onboarding Support

To facilitate a smooth transition, Drone Spray Otago Ltd offers comprehensive relocation assistance, including:

● Travel arrangements: Upfront flight financing options (subject to a structured repayment schedule)

● Settling-in assistance: Practical support with local accommodation arrangements, obtaining a NZ driver's licence, and securing a personal vehicle

What We Offer

● Genuine career progression within agricultural UAV operations

● On-the-job training and mentorship from experienced operators

● Varied, hands-on work across both UAV operations and farm work

● Relocation and settling-in support for candidates moving to the region

How to Apply

Please contact Andrew McDiarmid on 022 069 8863 with your CV and a brief cover letter.