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Aerial Applicator

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.

Career Overview

1

I fly small planes or helicopters and spray fertilizer and pesticides over fields.
2

I work with customers to prepare the correct chemical mixtures and use maps to identify the land for application.
3

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

Potential Salary Range

$65,000 - $113,000 / Annually

Available Provinces

British Columbia

Alberta

Manitoba

New Brunswick

Nova Scotia

Ontario

Prince Edward Island

Quebec

Saskatchewan

Workplace Details

Outdoor

Featured Employers

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).

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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

Important Skills

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.