Agricultural Drone Operations Manager Job Vacancy in Bansang, Gambia – Agriculture Technology

Job Description

Position: Agricultural Drone Operations Manager

Company: John Deere Gambia

Location: Bansang, Gambia

Experience: Minimum 5 years in drone piloting, precision agriculture, or related field

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

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Agriculture Technology

Department: Operations

Salary: SSP 1,500,000 – SSP 2,500,000 per annum

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

John Deere Gambia is a leading provider of advanced agricultural solutions, delivering cutting‑edge machinery, digital tools, and data‑driven services to farmers across West Africa. With a commitment to sustainable farming practices, the company leverages innovative technologies to increase productivity, reduce environmental impact, and empower local agribusinesses. Operating from a regional hub in Banjul, John Deere Gambia collaborates closely with ministries, NGOs, and private sector partners to support the Gambian agricultural sector’s transformation. The organization values diversity, continuous learning, and a culture of safety, making it an attractive employer for professionals seeking to make a tangible difference in food security and rural development.

Job Overview

The Agricultural Drone Operations Manager will lead the planning, execution, and analysis of drone‑based precision agriculture initiatives for John Deere Gambia. This role involves coordinating field surveys, managing a fleet of UAVs, integrating aerial data with farm management platforms, and delivering actionable insights to growers. The manager will work closely with agronomists, data scientists, and local extension officers to ensure that drone services align with regional crop cycles and sustainability goals. The position offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of agriculture in Gambia by harnessing aerial technology to optimize inputs, monitor crop health, and improve yields. For more information about our career portal, visit https://gambiajobsearch.com.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive drone operations strategy tailored to Gambian crops such as millet, rice, and groundnuts.
• Plan and execute pre‑season, in‑season, and post‑harvest aerial surveys, ensuring compliance with national aviation regulations.
• Maintain and calibrate UAV hardware, sensors, and software to guarantee data accuracy and flight safety.
• Collaborate with agronomists to translate multispectral and thermal imagery into actionable recommendations for fertilizer, irrigation, and pest management.
• Manage a team of drone pilots, technicians, and data analysts, providing mentorship and performance feedback.
• Oversee data processing pipelines, integrating drone outputs with John Deere’s farm management software and third‑party platforms.
• Prepare detailed reports and visualizations for farmers, government agencies, and corporate stakeholders.
• Monitor emerging drone technologies and regulatory changes, recommending upgrades or process improvements.
• Ensure all operations adhere to safety protocols, risk assessments, and environmental guidelines.
• Represent John Deere Gambia at industry conferences, workshops, and community outreach events.

Required Skills

• Proficiency in UAV flight planning software (e.g., DJI Pilot, Pix4D, DroneDeploy).
• Strong understanding of remote sensing, GIS, and agronomic data interpretation.
• Excellent project management abilities with a track record of delivering complex field operations on schedule.
• Leadership experience managing multidisciplinary teams in challenging environments.
• Effective communication skills for translating technical data into farmer‑friendly language.
• Knowledge of Gambian aviation regulations and agricultural extension services.
• Problem‑solving mindset with the ability to adapt to variable weather and terrain conditions.
• Commitment to safety, data privacy, and sustainable farming practices.

Education

A Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Engineering, Agronomy, Remote Sensing, Geomatics, or a closely related field is required. Advanced certifications in UAV operations, GIS, or precision agriculture are highly desirable.

Experience

At least five years of hands‑on experience operating drones for agricultural applications, preferably in West African contexts. Experience managing teams, handling regulatory compliance, and delivering data‑driven agronomic recommendations is essential.

Salary

The annual compensation package ranges from SSP 1,500,000 to SSP 2,500,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications. The package includes performance‑based bonuses, health insurance, and a pension contribution.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical and dental coverage.
• Retirement savings plan with employer matching.
• Annual leave and paid public holidays in line with Gambian labor law.
• Professional development allowance for certifications and conferences.
• Company‑provided mobile device and laptop.

Training

• On‑boarding program covering John Deere’s precision agriculture suite and local farming practices.
• Advanced UAV pilot certification and safety workshops.
• Continuous training in GIS, data analytics, and emerging drone technologies.

Working Environment

The role is based in Bansang with frequent field travel across the Upper River Region and neighboring districts. Work involves a blend of office‑based data analysis and outdoor flight operations, requiring flexibility to adapt to seasonal weather patterns. The organization promotes a collaborative, inclusive culture where innovation is encouraged and achievements are recognized.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit an online application through our recruitment portal, attaching a current CV and a cover letter outlining relevant experience. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. For additional regional opportunities, explore https://senegaljobsearch.com/job-vacancy-senegal/.

Shortlisted applicants will be invited to a virtual interview followed by a practical flight assessment. Successful candidates will receive an offer letter detailing compensation, start date, and onboarding steps. For broader North African career options, visit https://egyptjobsearch.com/job-vacancy-in-egypt/.

Equal Opportunity Statement

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