About Company
KLK Landbou is a leading agricultural company and cooperative deeply rooted in the Northern Cape of South Africa. For over a century, KLK has been a steadfast partner to farmers, providing comprehensive services ranging from agricultural inputs, technical advisory, and financial solutions to livestock and produce marketing. Our commitment lies in empowering the agricultural community through innovation, sustainable practices, and expert support, contributing significantly to food security and economic growth in the region. We are dedicated to integrating cutting-edge technology to enhance farming efficiency and productivity, helping our farmers thrive in an evolving global agricultural landscape. Joining KLK means becoming part of a legacy of excellence and a future focused on innovation in agriculture.
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Job Description
We are seeking a highly skilled and enthusiastic Drone Pilot to join our innovative agricultural technology team in Van Wyksvlei, Northern Cape. This pivotal role involves operating state-of-the-art Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) to conduct precise agricultural surveys and mapping, providing invaluable data for our farming partners. You will be at the forefront of precision agriculture, utilising drone technology to monitor crop health, assess irrigation efficiency, map field topography, identify pest and disease outbreaks, and contribute to yield prediction models. This position demands a meticulous approach to data collection, a strong understanding of agricultural practices, and an unwavering commitment to safety and regulatory compliance. The ideal candidate will be instrumental in translating aerial insights into actionable strategies that enhance farm productivity, optimise resource allocation, and foster sustainable farming practices across the diverse landscapes of the Northern Cape. If you are passionate about drones, agriculture, and making a tangible impact, we invite you to contribute to KLK Landbou’s mission of agricultural excellence.
Key Responsibilities
- Plan, execute, and manage drone flights for agricultural surveying, mapping, and data collection over various farm properties.
- Operate and maintain a fleet of drones, ensuring all equipment is in optimal working condition and adheres to safety protocols.
- Collect high-resolution imagery and geospatial data for analysis, including multispectral, thermal, and RGB data.
- Process and interpret drone-acquired data using specialised software (e.g., GIS, photogrammetry tools) to generate actionable insights.
- Collaborate with agronomists, farm managers, and other stakeholders to understand data requirements and deliver tailored reports.
- Conduct pre-flight checks, risk assessments, and post-flight data management procedures.
- Ensure strict adherence to South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) regulations and all relevant aviation laws and guidelines.
- Provide technical support and training to internal teams and clients on drone capabilities and data interpretation.
- Maintain accurate flight logs, equipment service records, and data archives.
- Stay updated with the latest advancements in drone technology, agricultural software, and precision farming techniques.
Required Skills
- Valid Remote Pilot Licence (RPL) issued by SACAA or equivalent international certification.
- Demonstrated experience in operating UAVs for agricultural or topographical mapping purposes.
- Proficiency in drone flight planning software (e.g., Pix4Dcapture, DJI GS Pro).
- Strong understanding of GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS) and photogrammetry processing tools.
- Basic knowledge of agricultural practices, crop cycles, and common plant diseases/pests.
- Excellent spatial awareness and navigation skills.
- Ability to work independently in remote field environments and adapt to varying weather conditions.
- Strong problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
- Effective communication skills for client interaction and team collaboration.
- Valid South African driver's license.
Preferred Qualifications
- A diploma or degree in Agriculture, Geomatics, Surveying, Environmental Science, or a related field.
- Experience with advanced sensor types (e.g., multispectral, LiDAR).
- Familiarity with precision agriculture software platforms and farm management systems.
- Experience in data analytics and reporting.
- Mechanical aptitude for drone assembly, repair, and troubleshooting.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary package.
- Comprehensive medical aid and provident fund contributions.
- Generous annual leave.
- Opportunities for continuous professional development and training in advanced drone technology and agricultural practices.
- Exposure to cutting-edge agricultural technology and innovation.
- Company vehicle for field operations.
- A supportive and collaborative team environment.
- Contribution to sustainable agriculture and food security in the Northern Cape.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to apply by clicking on the link below. Please navigate to the ‘Careers’ section on our website and submit your detailed CV and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and qualifications for the Drone Pilot role. Ensure your application clearly demonstrates your SACAA RPL status and your experience in agricultural drone operations. We encourage early applications as we review them on a rolling basis.
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