Drone Operations Manager Job Vacancy in Lira, Uganda – Agriculture Technology

Job Description

Position: Drone Operations Manager

Company: Syngenta Uganda

Location: Lira, 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: SSP 2,500,000 – SSP 4,000,000 per month

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

Syngenta Uganda is a leading global agribusiness dedicated to sustainable crop protection and innovative agricultural solutions. With a strong presence across East Africa, Syngenta combines cutting‑edge research, local expertise, and a commitment to farmer empowerment. The company’s mission is to help farmers increase productivity while preserving the environment, aligning with Uganda’s national goals for food security and climate‑smart agriculture. As part of its digital transformation, Syngenta Uganda is expanding its precision agriculture portfolio, leveraging drone technology to deliver real‑time insights, optimize input use, and improve yields. This growth creates exciting career opportunities for professionals who are passionate about technology, sustainability, and agricultural development. Uganda Jobs at Syngenta are known for competitive compensation, continuous learning, and a collaborative culture that values diversity and innovation.

Job Overview

The Drone Operations Manager will lead the planning, execution, and analysis of drone‑based data collection projects across Lira and surrounding agricultural zones. Reporting to the Head of Precision Agriculture, you will manage a multidisciplinary team of pilots, data analysts, and agronomists to deliver actionable insights to smallholder and commercial farmers. This role is central to Syngenta’s strategy of integrating aerial imagery, AI‑driven analytics, and agronomic recommendations into a seamless service offering. You will work closely with research partners, local extension services, and technology vendors to ensure data quality, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency. For more information about our digital initiatives, visit our main website https://ugandajobssearch.com.

Explore regional opportunities and learn how we support cross‑border collaborations at https://zimbabwejobsearch.com/job-vacancy-in-zimbabwe/.

Discover additional resources on agricultural technology trends at https://algeriajobsearch.com/.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement drone flight plans for crop monitoring, pest detection, and soil health assessment.
• Coordinate with agronomists to translate aerial data into actionable field recommendations.
• Ensure compliance with Uganda Civil Aviation Authority regulations and obtain necessary flight permits.
• Manage a team of certified drone pilots, data scientists, and field technicians.
• Oversee data processing pipelines, including image stitching, orthomosaic generation, and AI‑based analytics.
• Maintain and calibrate drone hardware, sensors, and ground control stations.
• Collaborate with research institutions to pilot new sensor technologies and analytics models.
• Prepare detailed reports and visual dashboards for internal stakeholders and farmer clients.
• Monitor key performance indicators such as data accuracy, turnaround time, and client satisfaction.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance operational efficiency and cost effectiveness.

Required Skills

• Proficiency in UAV flight operations, including fixed‑wing and multirotor platforms.
• Strong knowledge of GIS, remote sensing, and photogrammetry software (e.g., Pix4D, DroneDeploy).
• Experience with data analytics tools and programming languages such as Python or R.
• Understanding of agronomic principles and crop management practices.
• Excellent project management and team leadership abilities.
• Effective communication skills for translating technical data to non‑technical audiences.
• Problem‑solving mindset with a focus on innovation and sustainability.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple field projects simultaneously.

Education

A Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Engineering, Agronomy, Geomatics, Computer Science, or a related field is required. Advanced certifications in UAV operation (e.g., ICAO Part‑107, Ugandan UAV license) and GIS are highly desirable.

Experience

Minimum of five years of hands‑on experience in drone operations for agricultural applications, including field data collection, processing, and interpretation. Prior experience managing multidisciplinary teams and delivering agronomic insights to farmers is essential.

Salary

The compensation package ranges from SSP 2,500,000 to SSP 4,000,000 per month, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Performance‑based bonuses and profit‑sharing opportunities are available.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health insurance covering medical, dental, and vision.
• Retirement savings plan with employer contributions.
• Paid annual leave, sick leave, and public holidays.
• Professional development allowance for certifications and conferences.
• Company‑provided laptop, tablet, and drone equipment for field work.
• Employee assistance program and wellness initiatives.

Training

• On‑boarding program covering Syngenta’s agronomic solutions and data platforms.
• Advanced UAV pilot certification and safety training.
• Workshops on AI‑driven analytics, GIS, and precision farming techniques.
• Mentorship from senior agronomists and data scientists.

Working Environment

The role is based in Lira with a hybrid work model: office‑based strategic planning and client meetings combined with frequent field deployments across the Northern Region. Our modern office provides collaborative spaces, high‑speed internet, and a culture that encourages knowledge sharing. Field work involves travel to farms, research stations, and partner sites, offering a dynamic and rewarding environment for professionals who enjoy hands‑on problem solving.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit an online application through our careers portal, attaching a current CV and a cover letter highlighting relevant drone and agronomy experience. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be invited for a virtual interview followed by a practical assessment of drone flight planning and data analysis skills.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Syngenta Uganda is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of gender, ethnicity, disability, or background. We encourage qualified Ugandan candidates of all genders to apply and join our mission to transform agriculture in Uganda.