UAS Visual Observer/Field Technician (On-site)

About Us:

Guardian Agriculture develops large multicopters for applying agricultural chemicals to high-value crops. Our systems radically improve precision and safety relative to existing plane- and helicopter-based crop spraying solutions, while reducing chemical use, reducing impact on pollinating insects, and minimizing opportunities for organisms to acquire chemical resistance.

Guardian is a small, multi-disciplinary team of talented engineers, technicians, and operators who are passionate about making an impact by connecting technology to solve critical customer needs.  We value collaboration, candor, thoughtful design, and a growth mindset as we scale the organization and build an autonomous system that farmers can trust.

Guardian Agriculture's Autonomous Electric Drone Sprayer

Guardian Agriculture Reaps $20 Million In New Funding

SUMMARY:

• Guardian Agriculture is seeking a high caliber Visual Observer and Field Technician on-site in Salinas CA to help apply agronomic chemicals using a large-scale drone on operating farmland. 
• This role is critical in making sure that we operate safely, while enhancing operational productivity. 
• Working as a team with the Pilot in Command, the Visual Observer/Field Technician is responsible for setup of the drone and all supplemental equipment, chemical mixing, and ensuring safe operations by monitoring the operating area and communicating with the Pilot in Command.
• This role requires hard work field side as well as sharp problem-solving skills to identify ways to improve operational performance. Guardian’s uncrewed aerial spraying systems are bringing technology to the farm that improves efficiency, safety, and sustainability. 
• We need someone determined to get the job done and able to step back and collaboratively figure out a better way when things don’t go as expected.
• As a Visual Observer and Field Technician, the candidate will have a direct impact on the success of the field teams tasked with utilizing R&D systems to help develop and productize Guardian hardware in a fast paced, challenging, yet supportive environment. 
• The role requires the candidate to be a reliable self-starter, willing to show up at the field as early as 4AM, capable of working in the absence of direct supervision and a willingness to do what it takes to get the job done.
• Candidates with a background working in an agricultural environment are strongly encouraged to apply. The candidate will report directly to the California Site Lead based in Salinas, CA.

• Support safe operation of large autonomous agricultural eVTOL craft during development and test efforts, application of plant protection chemicals and nutrition products on crops.
• Inspect and perform basic maintenance on equipment.
• Transport equipment to agricultural fields, set up safe boundaries and operations equipment.
• Conduct field surveys and prepare maps for flights.
• Refill craft payloads, safely handle, rinse and dispose of containers in contact with crop protection products.
• Safely and effectively apply crop protection products to agricultural fields.
• Complete flight test reports, application reports, craft flight and maintenance logs
• Perform other duties as assigned or required.

• Determination to get the job done - even when it means arriving early and staying late
• Track record of working collaboratively as part of a team
• Demonstrated ability to diagnose issues and problem solve when things don’t go as planned.
• Ability to learn and understand UAS visual observer best practices.
• Ability to occasionally lift 80 lbs., bend, kneel, crawl, and navigate shop spaces as well as ground conditions that are typically found on agricultural food crop fields, i.e. loose tilled highly variable terrain including plants.
• Proficiency with common hand tools and light power tools
• Ability to drive +16’ trailer with a Medium Duty truck.
• Must be able to read, analyze and interpret written instructions.
• Ability to learn detailed and specific procedures and processes and execute them accurately and efficiently.
• Ability to apply mathematical concepts such as fractions, percentages, and ratios to practical applications.

• High school Diploma or equivalent
• Ability to acquire FAA Part 107 certificate to operate drones and meet FAA requirements for Visual Observer in 6 weeks (Guardian will provide training course and materials)
• Valid state issued driver’s license.
• Ability to get a respirator fit test.

• Previous agricultural experience
• Experience working with or an understanding of plant protection, chemistries, and fertilizer.
• Commercial driver’s license
• Conversational Spanish (or better)
• Veterans are encouraged to apply.
• Familiarity with drones and/ or experience using GIS software like QGIS.

• Travel, sometimes prolonged, to assist in testing at headquarters and other FAA approved test locations.
• Daily early morning travel to job sites for site standup, system integration, program support, and/or testing

Benefits:
Flexible time off, competitive salary, stock options, free company lunch every day, comprehensive benefits package, lots of tools, and the opportunity to build and play with flying machines that will have an environmental impact. We offer three months paid Maternity and Paternity Leave for new parents and encourage all parents to take it.

"Guardian AG stands firmly against racial discrimination and social injustice. Everyone has a voice in our company, and we are committed to equality, inclusiveness, respect, and kindness. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender perception or identity, national origin, disability status, age, marital status, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by law. Guardian AG is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with physical and mental disabilities. If you need special assistance or an accommodation while seeking employment, please send an email to: [email protected]"