Drone Imaging Agronomy Internship (January 2027-Aug 2027)

This internship provides hands-on experience with drone imagery, crop analysis, precision agriculture technologies, and planter performance evaluation. The intern will assist with drone flight planning, field imagery collection, data management, and analysis using tools like Sentera FieldAgent and John Deere Operations Center. The role involves scouting fields, documenting crop growth, and evaluating planter technology performance. The position is based in Manhattan, Kansas, with remote work possible during the Spring 2027 semester, followed by a full-time summer field season.

Responsibilities

• Obtain FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certification.
• Assist and execute drone flight planning, field imagery collection, and data management.
• Scout fields and document crop growth stages, stand establishment, and field conditions.
• Collect and analyze imagery using Sentera FieldAgent and related tools.
• Compare field imagery, agronomic observations, and planter performance data from John Deere Operations Center.
• Evaluate the performance of SurePoint Ag planter technology systems and other planter technologies.
• Create reports, presentations, and summaries of field findings.
• Support the development of repeatable field data collection and analysis processes.

Requirements

• Junior or senior-level student pursuing a degree in Agronomy, Precision Agriculture, Agricultural Technology, Agricultural Systems Management, or a related field.
• Interest in agronomy, precision agriculture, crop production, and emerging technologies.
• Strong communication, organizational, and analytical skills.
• Ability to travel and work independently in outdoor environments.
• Valid driver’s license.

Nice to have

• Experience with drones, GIS, mapping, imagery analysis, or precision agriculture technologies is preferred.
• Preferred candidate programs: Kansas State University, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Iowa State University, Fort Hays State University, or similar agriculture-focused programs.

Benefits

• Hands-on experience with drone technology, imagery analytics, and precision agriculture tools.
• Exposure to agronomic research and planter performance evaluation.
• Training on Sentera FieldAgent and John Deere Operations Center.
• Direct involvement in product development, validation, and field performance analysis.