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Agricultural Careers Agricultural Aviator. By: Dr. Frank Flanders and Anna Burgess Georgia Agricultural Education Curriculum Office Georgia Department of Education June 2005. START. Job Duties & Responsibilities. Survey and inspect land prior to spraying chemicals
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Agricultural Careers Agricultural Aviator By: Dr. Frank Flanders and Anna Burgess Georgia Agricultural Education Curriculum Office Georgia Department of Education June 2005 START
Job Duties & Responsibilities • Survey and inspect land prior to spraying chemicals • Notify residents of areas where work is going to be performed and make sure they will not be affected by applications • Operate and fly airplanes over target areas of land • May fly over areas in order to feed animals in special situations • May photograph areas of land, wildlife, or game animals • Interpret weather conditions for flying and applications of chemicals • Must know and obey all laws governing aviation • Must sometimes direct the work of others in the safe use of chemicals
Qualities and Skills • The ideal candidate for an agricultural aviator career is one who loves to fly. • They must have good judgment, be emotionally healthy and observant of their surroundings. • Being able to discern flight and weather conditions for safety is also required. • Good communication skills for working with others in small or personally owned business • The ability to successfully conduct detailed work in planning, following regulations, and preparing paperwork are also needed.
Salary The annual salary of an agricultural aviator ranges from $30,000 or more per year. Experienced pilots can expect to earn much more, especially those performing specialized tasks. Pilots with their own business will generally earn higher incomes but also take the most financial risk.
Work Environment • Both indoor and outdoor work, but mostly outdoors • Usually early morning and early evening hours • Demanding and very dangerous, especially when flying close to the ground • Safety features, such as helmet, seatbelt, and shoulder harness are required • Possible exposure to pesticides and other harsh substances
Becoming an Agricultural Aviator Most companies prefer to hire pilots with at least two years of college training. Candidates are required to complete pilot training as well as obtain a commercial pilot’s license Pilots must obtain a commercial pilot’s license from the FAA. This process includes a physical exam, flying instructions, a written exam, and solo certification. A crop duster or other pilot handling pesticides must obtain a commercial pesticide license.
Career Resources National Agricultural Aviation Association 1005 E Street, SE Washington, DC 20003 Internet: http://www.agaviation.org AgAir Update Internet: http://www.agairupdate.com Agricultural Careers Internet: http://www.agcareers.com Agriculture Online Internet: http://www.agriculture.com