Aerial Applicator

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Once you have tasted flight, you will forever walk the earth with your eyes turned skyward. For there you have been, and there you will always long to return.

Leonardo Da Vinci
Aerial Applicator

In A Nutshell

I fly small planes or helicopters and spray fertilizer and pesticides over fields.

I work with customers to prepare the correct chemical mixtures and use maps to identify the land for application.

I monitor weather and wind conditions, adjusting plans as needed.

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Featured Employer

Government of Saskatchewan logo

Government of Saskatchewan

Saskatchewan is a Canadian province located in the Prairie region. It is one of only two provinces in Canada without a coastline on saltwater and the only province whose boundaries are entirely artificial (meaning they are not based on natural features).

Explore More: https://www.saskatchewan.ca/

Potential Salary Range

$65,000 - $113,000 Annually

Which provinces would this job be in?

Alberta AB
Alberta
British Columbia BC
British Columbia
Manitoba MB
Manitoba
New Brunswick NB
New Brunswick
Nova Scotia NS
Nova Scotia
Ontario ON
Ontario
Prince Edward Island PEI
Prince Edward Island
Quebec QC
Quebec
Saskwatchewan SK
Saskwatchewan

I fly a specialized aircraft to apply fertilizers and pesticides over large farm fields. Flying takes focus and precision, but it’s a fast and effective way to support farmers and improve crop health, helping ensure strong, healthy harvests.

Workplace

Outdoor

Job Requirements & Duties

  • Operate aircraft safely while performing agricultural applications, adhering to all all safety rules
  • Perform thorough pre-flight checks and follow aviation and agricultural safety regulations
  • Handle pesticides and fertilizers carefully, using proper techniques to protect crops and the environment
  • Monitor weather, wind, and field conditions to plan safe and effective spraying
  • Read maps, GPS, and field layouts to navigate farmland accurately
  • Work closely with ground crews to apply chemicals efficiently and minimize environmental impact

Education & Training

  • A high school diploma is ususally required, and many aerial applicators also complete college diplomas or university degrees
  • Pilots must hold a commercial pilot licence and a valid provincial pesticide licence
  • Most companies prefer pilots with strong flying experience or hands-on experience working as on-ground chemical applicators
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Job Outlook

    This job remains in demand as skilled professionals help care for crops, improve yields, and protect the soil.

Related School Subjects

Science
Ed. Prof. et Tech.

What words come to mind when thinking about this career?

Pilot Spray Flying Pesticide Aircraft Precision Chemicals Airspace Safety Aerial

Important Skills

Computer & Technological icon

Computer & Technological

I use onboard GPS, mapping software, and precision agriculture tools to apply crop protection products exactly where they are needed.

Decision Making

I make quick decisions based on wind, weather, and field conditions to fly safely and protect both crops and the environment.

Planning

I often have to spray several fields in a single day, so I plan flight paths, refill times, and weather windows to stay efficient and effective.

Independence

I work independently in the air and on the ground, using flight data, field maps, and client instructions to get the job done safely and accurately.

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The Best Things About This Job Are…

Independent Work
Seasonality
Opportunity to Travel
Using Technology