Senior Farm Technician

Job Description

 

We're looking for an experienced tractor operator and farm technician to help deliver field-scale crop research at the University of Reading's Sonning Farm. If you have a strong background in cultivations, drilling, spraying, harvesting and machinery maintenance, this role offers the opportunity to apply those skills in a varied and rewarding agricultural setting.

You will be responsible for the practical delivery of field trials, operating and maintaining tractors and specialist equipment, managing the workshop, and ensuring machinery is maintained to a high standard. Working closely with researchers and other technicians, you will play a key role in establishing and managing crop trials that support advances in agriculture, food production and environmental sustainability.

Opportunities also exist to become involved in emerging technologies, including drones, sensors and precision agriculture systems, depending on your interests and experience.

We are seeking someone with:
-Practical training and experience carrying out tractor operations using mounted field equipment.
-Proven experience in the maintenance, diagnosis and repair of agricultural machinery and farm equipment.
-The ability to safely assess faults, lift and work on heavy equipment, and carry out repairs to a high standard.
-The confidence and judgement to take initiative while maintaining safe working practices.
-Experience of maintaining and repairing more delicate laboratory or technical equipment.
-An understanding of scientific trials and experimental work, with excellent attention to detail and an organised approach.
-A willingness to undertake pesticide application duties and learn the detailed procedures and protocols involved.
-The ability to develop, manage and deliver maintenance schedules for equipment and facilities.
-Strong teamwork skills, a positive attitude and a willingness to support the team with a wide range of tasks required to support field trial sites.
-Good communication skills and the ability to build effective working relationships with colleagues and external contacts.
-The capability to undertake practical/manual field and workshop tasks.

It would be advantageous if you have:
-An interest in, and understanding of, agricultural electronics, sensors, data loggers and drone technology.
-Knowledge of crop agronomy and crop production systems.
-Experience working in agricultural research, field trials or a similar technical environment.
-A passion for plants, whether through farming, horticulture, gardening or crop production.

You may occasionally be required to support other technical divisions operating across our farms and Crops Research facilities on the main University campus. Training will be provided in specialist techniques and use of equipment, where required.

How to Apply

 

If you are interested in applying for this post, contact: Mr Richard Casebow, Technical Manager (Crops Research Unit), r.j.casebow@reading.ac.uk

Alternative Contact Name: Dr Karen Wicks, Associate Director (Technical Services), k.wicks@reading.ac.uk