2027 Crop Science Intern - Drone Operations

Role Description

The Crop Science Intern reports directly to the Research Agronomist and offers the opportuity to see and use many of the latest technologies and innovations used in Agriculture today. The Drone Operations position is responsible for completing experiments or investigations in field crop problems through the use of the latest Agricultural Drone technology and will assist in the establishment and maintenance of test plots.

Job Experiences:

Research and Development:

• Assist with crop scouting, data recording, and agronomic problem solving.
• Generate written reports and presentations for the Research and Farm Operations Team
• Study the risk and benefits of agronomy products and practices to help develop the best methods of planting, cultivating, and harvesting potatoes.
• Assist/develop the plan for the control of noxious weeds, crop diseases, and pest intrusion.

Drone Operations:

• Obtain FAA part 107 – Remote Pilot certificate as required to commercially fly drones.
• Heartland Farms flight training & test will be administered by Heartland Farm’s Chief Pilot (FAA Part 137) while acquiring hands-on experience using Ag Drones.
• Acquire training and certification of applicable:
  • Commercial pesticide Applicators licensing for aerial applications.
  • Wisconsin DATCP Commercial Application Category 1.1 Certification.
  • Aerial Application Category 9.9 Certification.
  •  3^rd Class Medical Certificate required for the operation of the drones.
• Learn to read and interpret georeferenced maps to locate specific fields and field borders.
• Learn techniques for drone assisted georeferenced mapping of fields for application. 
• Learn to maintain, repair, and care for commercial Ag Drones

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities:

• Proficient in utilizing technology in the workplace.
• Ability to travel locally up to 75%
• Capable of lifting 50 pounds occasionally
• Ability to work independently.
• Ability to work in varying weather conditions and soil types
• Self-starter

Qualifications:

• In the process of obtaining a degree in Agronomy, Ag Sciences or other related Agriculture fields.
• Enrolled in a College or Technical School
• Experience in production agriculture, preferred.
• Knowledge of crop management, preferred.

Work Schedule:

The Crop Science Interns work a part time schedule that is highly dependent on the time of year and weather conditions. During periods of high demand such as Planting or Harvesting employees will be expected to work as needed, which will require a great deal of flexibility as to the hours per day/week and the times worked. 

Physical Requirements:

• Requires the ability to work on-site and in multiple locations and settings.
• Ability to stand for a large part of their workday.
• Requires the ability to lift up to 50# multiple times during their workday.
• Requires the ability to clearly understand verbal and written communication from others in person and by telephone. 

With Heartland Farms, Inc., you will work as part of a high performing agricultural organization where team members collaborate to get the job done and challenge the status quo to find a better way. We highly value hard work, achievement, and reliability, and reward people accordingly.

This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required for this position. Duties, activities, and responsibilities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice. Heartland Farms Inc. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.