Agricultural Drone Operations Manager Job Vacancy in Borama, Somalia – Agriculture Technology

Job Description

Position: Agricultural Drone Operations Manager

Company: John Deere

Location: Borama, Somalia

Experience: 5+ years in precision agriculture, drone operations, and farm management

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

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Agriculture Technology

Department: Operations

Salary: SSP 4,000,000 – SSP 6,000,000 per annum

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

John Deere is a global leader in advanced agricultural machinery and technology solutions. With a strong commitment to sustainable farming, John Deere operates across continents, delivering innovative equipment and digital platforms that empower farmers to increase productivity while preserving the environment. In Somalia, John Deere partners with local cooperatives and agribusinesses to introduce cutting‑edge precision agriculture tools, supporting the nation’s growing agricultural sector and food security goals.

Job Overview

The Agricultural Drone Operations Manager will spearhead the deployment, management, and optimization of drone‑based surveying and monitoring solutions for large‑scale farms in Somalia. This role integrates advanced remote sensing, data analytics, and field operations to provide actionable insights that drive yield improvements, resource efficiency, and compliance with agronomic standards. As a key member of the Operations department, you will collaborate with agronomists, data scientists, and local partners to ensure seamless integration of drone technology into everyday farming practices.

For more information about John Deere’s mission and technology, visit https://somaliajobsearch.com/.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan, execute, and oversee drone flight missions for crop health monitoring, irrigation mapping, and pest detection across multiple farms.
• Manage a team of drone pilots, technicians, and data analysts, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and operational standards.
• Collaborate with agronomists to translate aerial imagery into actionable agronomic recommendations.
• Maintain and calibrate drone hardware, sensors, and software platforms to guarantee data accuracy.
• Develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) for drone operations, data processing, and reporting.
• Provide training and capacity‑building workshops for local farmers and extension officers on drone technology usage.
• Monitor regulatory developments related to UAV operations in Somalia and ensure all activities meet national aviation guidelines.
• Prepare detailed performance reports, cost‑benefit analyses, and project proposals for senior management.

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 leadership and team management abilities.
• Effective communication skills in English and Somali.
• Problem‑solving mindset with the ability to adapt technology to local farming conditions.
• Project management experience with a focus on technology implementation.

Education

A Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Engineering, Agronomy, Environmental Science, or a related discipline is required. Advanced certifications in UAV operations, GIS, or precision agriculture are highly desirable.

Experience

Minimum five years of hands‑on experience in precision agriculture, drone operations, or related fields. Prior experience working in East Africa or similar emerging markets is a strong advantage.

Salary

The competitive salary range for this position is SSP 4,000,000 to SSP 6,000,000 per year, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Additional performance‑based incentives may be offered.

Benefits

• Health insurance coverage for employee and dependents.
• Annual leave and sick leave in accordance with Somali labor law.
• Professional development budget for certifications and training.
• Company‑provided equipment and mobile data allowances.
• Opportunities for international travel to John Deere training centers.

Training

• Comprehensive onboarding program covering John Deere’s precision agriculture suite.
• Ongoing technical workshops on the latest drone hardware and software updates.
• Leadership development courses to enhance managerial capabilities.

Working Environment

The role is based in Borama, with frequent field visits to farms across the region. You will work in a dynamic, multicultural team that values innovation, sustainability, and community impact. The position offers a blend of office‑based planning and hands‑on field operations, providing a rewarding and varied workday.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their updated CV and a cover letter outlining relevant experience through the online portal on our website. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.

Equal Opportunity Statement

John Deere is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of gender, ethnicity, religion, or background.