Agricultural Drone Operations Manager Job Vacancy in Saint-Louis, Senegal – Agriculture Technology

Job Description

Position: Agricultural Drone Operations Manager

Company: John Deere Senegal

Location: Saint-Louis, Senegal

Experience: 5+ years in drone operations, precision agriculture, or related field

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Engineering, Agronomy, or related discipline

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Agriculture Technology

Department: Operations Management

Salary: 1,200,000 – 1,800,000 SSP per month

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

John Deere is a global leader in agricultural equipment and technology, dedicated to advancing sustainable farming practices worldwide. In Senegal, John Deere Senegal supports local farmers by providing cutting‑edge machinery, data‑driven solutions, and expert services that enhance productivity and environmental stewardship. With a strong commitment to innovation, the company collaborates with research institutions, government agencies, and agribusinesses to drive the adoption of precision agriculture across the region. As part of its mission to empower farmers, John Deere Senegal is expanding its digital capabilities, including the integration of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) for crop monitoring, health assessment, and yield optimization. This growth creates exciting career opportunities for professionals passionate about technology, agriculture, and sustainable development. The role contributes directly to John Deere’s vision of “Increasing the productivity of the world’s farms while preserving natural resources,” making it a pivotal position for those seeking to make a tangible impact on Senegal Jobs and the broader agricultural sector.

Job Overview

The Agricultural Drone Operations Manager will lead the planning, execution, and analysis of drone‑based missions that support precision farming initiatives for John Deere’s clients in Senegal. This role involves coordinating with agronomists, data scientists, and field technicians to deliver high‑quality aerial imagery, generate actionable insights, and ensure compliance with local aviation regulations. The manager will also be responsible for maintaining the drone fleet, training staff, and fostering partnerships with technology providers and research bodies. By leveraging advanced UAV platforms, the manager will help farmers make data‑driven decisions that improve crop health, reduce input costs, and increase overall yields. For more information about John Deere’s commitment to innovation, visit the Main Website.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive drone operations strategy aligned with John Deere’s precision agriculture objectives.
• Plan, schedule, and oversee all UAV flight missions, ensuring safety, data quality, and regulatory compliance.
• Manage the acquisition, maintenance, and calibration of drone hardware and software tools.
• Collaborate with agronomists and data analysts to translate aerial data into actionable farm management recommendations.
• Train and mentor a multidisciplinary team of pilots, technicians, and field staff on best practices and emerging technologies.
• Establish and nurture relationships with local aviation authorities, research institutions, and technology partners.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) such as mission success rate, data accuracy, and client satisfaction.
• Prepare detailed reports and presentations for internal stakeholders and external clients.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, regulatory changes, and technological advancements in UAV and precision agriculture.

Required Skills

• Proficiency in operating commercial‑grade UAVs (e.g., DJI Matrice, senseFly eBee) and associated flight planning software.
• Strong understanding of remote sensing, photogrammetry, and GIS applications in agriculture.
• Excellent project management abilities with a track record of delivering complex technical projects on time and within budget.
• Effective communication skills for interfacing with farmers, technical teams, and senior management.
• Problem‑solving mindset with the ability to troubleshoot hardware, software, and data processing issues.
• Knowledge of Senegalese civil aviation regulations and experience obtaining necessary flight permits.
• Leadership experience in managing cross‑functional teams.
• Fluency in French and English; knowledge of local languages is a plus.

Education

A Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Engineering, Agronomy, Geomatics, Computer Science, or a related field is required. Advanced certifications in UAV operations (e.g., FAA Part 107, EASA) or a Master’s degree in Precision Agriculture are highly desirable.

Experience

Applicants must have a minimum of five years of professional experience in drone operations, precision agriculture, or related technology services. Prior experience in the West African agricultural market, especially within Senegal, will be considered a strong advantage.

Salary

The compensation package ranges from 1,200,000 to 1,800,000 SSP per month, commensurate with experience and qualifications. The package includes performance‑based bonuses, health insurance, and a retirement savings plan.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health and dental coverage.
• Retirement savings plan with company matching.
• Annual performance bonus tied to project outcomes.
• Professional development allowance for certifications and conferences.
• Company‑provided mobile device and laptop.
• Paid parental leave and flexible working arrangements.

Training

• On‑boarding program covering John Deere’s precision agriculture platform and UAV safety protocols.
• Continuous training on the latest drone technologies, data analytics tools, and agronomic practices.
• Access to internal e‑learning modules and external industry workshops.
• Mentorship opportunities with senior engineers and agronomists.

Working Environment

The role is based in Saint‑Louis, a vibrant coastal city known for its rich cultural heritage and growing agricultural sector. Employees work in a collaborative office setting with access to field sites across the Senegalese Sahel and coastal regions. The position requires regular travel to farms, research stations, and client locations, offering a dynamic and hands‑on work experience.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their updated CV and a cover letter outlining their relevant experience through the online portal. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be invited for a virtual interview followed by an on‑site assessment. For additional career resources, visit the Additional Website.

Equal Opportunity Statement

John Deere Senegal is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of gender, race, religion, age, disability, or sexual orientation. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination.