Agricultural Drone Operations Manager Job Vacancy in Kyenjojo, Uganda – Agriculture Technology

Job Description

Position:Agricultural Drone Operations Manager

Company:Syngenta Uganda

Location:Kyenjojo, Uganda

Experience:5+ years in drone operations, precision agriculture, or related field

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

Employment Type:Full-time

Industry:Agriculture Technology

Department:Operations

Salary:UGX 3,000,000 – 5,000,000 per month

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

Syngenta Uganda is a leading global agribusiness dedicated to sustainable agriculture and innovative crop solutions. With a strong presence across East Africa, Syngenta combines cutting‑edge science, digital tools, and local expertise to help farmers increase productivity while protecting the environment. As part of its commitment to modern farming, Syngenta Uganda is expanding its precision agriculture portfolio, integrating drone technology to deliver real‑time insights, targeted interventions, and data‑driven decision making. This role offers a unique opportunity to lead a pioneering team in a rapidly growing sector, contributing to food security and economic development in Uganda.

Job Overview

The Agricultural Drone Operations Manager will spearhead the planning, execution, and analysis of drone‑based services for smallholder and commercial farms in the Kyenjojo region and beyond. Reporting to the Head of Precision Agriculture, you will collaborate with agronomists, data scientists, and field technicians to design flight missions, capture high‑resolution imagery, and translate data into actionable agronomic recommendations. This position is central to Syngenta Uganda’s strategy of delivering next‑generation farming solutions and will play a critical role in scaling drone services across the country. For more information about our mission and career opportunities, visit our main website https://ugandajobssearch.com/.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement drone flight plans tailored to crop type, growth stage, and farmer objectives.
• Manage a team of drone pilots, data analysts, and field support staff, ensuring safety, compliance, and high‑quality data capture.
• Coordinate with agronomy experts to integrate drone‑derived insights into integrated pest management, nutrient management, and yield forecasting.
• Maintain and calibrate drone hardware, sensors, and software platforms, ensuring optimal performance and regulatory compliance.
• Analyze aerial imagery using GIS and AI tools, producing detailed reports and actionable recommendations for farmers.
• Lead pilot projects and field trials to demonstrate ROI and refine service offerings.
• Engage with local farmer cooperatives, extension services, and government agencies to promote adoption of drone technology.
• Prepare budgets, monitor expenses, and report on key performance indicators to senior management.
• Stay abreast of emerging drone regulations, technology trends, and best practices in precision agriculture.

Required Skills

• Proficiency in UAV operation, flight planning software (e.g., DJI Pilot, Pix4D), and sensor payloads (multispectral, thermal).
• Strong analytical skills with experience in GIS, remote sensing, and data visualization.
• Leadership and team management abilities, with a focus on safety and quality.
• Excellent communication skills for translating technical data into farmer‑friendly recommendations.
• Project management expertise, including budgeting and timeline adherence.
• Knowledge of Ugandan agricultural practices, crop cycles, and local regulatory environment.

Education

A Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Engineering, Agronomy, Remote Sensing, or a related field is required. Advanced certifications in UAV operation (e.g., Ugandan Civil Aviation Authority UAV license) and GIS are highly desirable.

Experience

Minimum of five years of hands‑on experience in drone operations, precision agriculture, or related agritech services. Prior experience managing multidisciplinary teams and delivering agronomic insights to farmers is essential.

Salary

The competitive salary range for this role is UGX 3,000,000 to UGX 5,000,000 per month, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Performance‑based bonuses and incentives are also part of the compensation package.

Benefits

• Health insurance coverage for employee and dependents.
• Retirement savings plan (NSSF contributions).
• Annual performance bonus.
• Professional development allowance.
• Company‑provided laptop, tablet, and field equipment.
• Paid annual leave and public holidays.

Training

• Comprehensive onboarding program covering Syngenta’s agronomic solutions and drone technology.
• Ongoing technical training on latest UAV platforms, sensor upgrades, and data analytics tools.
• Leadership development workshops and mentorship opportunities.

Working Environment

The role is based in Kyenjojo with frequent field visits across the Western Region. You will work in a collaborative, innovative environment that values sustainability, farmer empowerment, and technological advancement. The office provides modern facilities, high‑speed internet, and a culture that encourages continuous learning.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit an online application through our careers portal, attaching a current CV and a cover letter outlining relevant experience and motivation for the role. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be invited for a virtual interview followed by a practical assessment.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Syngenta Uganda is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all employees are valued, respected, and given the chance to thrive regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability, or background.