Agronomy Trials Technician

ABOUT THE JOB

We are seeking a motivated and enthusiastic individual to join our Regional Trials Team at our centre in Morley, Norfolk. This exciting opportunity offers hands-on experience in agronomy and/or machinery operation. You will have the chance to work across a diverse range of crops, gaining valuable insights and skills in crop management.

The role will focus on delivering high-quality field trials and demonstration plots aimed at evaluating crop varietal performance, soils and nutrition, disease management, and agrochemical efficacy. In addition, you will have the opportunity to operate a variety of specialist trials machinery to ensure efficient and precise delivery of trial protocols.

If you have a passion for agriculture, this position offers a unique opportunity to develop your skills while contributing to cutting-edge agricultural research. While prior experience in trials, agriculture or machinery operation is desirable, we welcome applications from candidates without this experience, as full training will be provided.

Main Duties

• Seed & Drilling: Preparation/organisation of seed and assisting in drilling operation, ensuring accuracy and attention to detail.

• Trial Monitoring & Assessing: Undertake regular checks and assess trials throughout the growing season, noting observations on plant health, growth, and pest/disease activity.

• Spraying & Crop Management: Assist with crop protection tasks, including pesticide and fertiliser application using both tractor-mounted and knapsack sprayers.

• Harvesting & Processing: Assist with combining, data collection and the processing of samples for further analysis.

• Data Recording & Reporting: Accurately record trial data, including agronomic observations, yield data, and any other relevant findings.

• Collaborating Across Departments: Support other teams within the Niab team and their research and coordinate with other regional centres as part of our national trials programme.

• Physical & Outdoor Work: Engage in outdoor work across varying weather conditions and assist with manual handling tasks (up to 25kg).

Location

The role is based at our offices in Morley St. Botolph, Norfolk, NR18 9DF , with free on-site parking. There will be occasional travel to other trial sites across the UK.

ABOUT YOU

You will have:

• A keen interest in agriculture, research, and crop science.

• Strong attention to detail and the ability to accurately record data.

• The ability to work efficiently as part of a team, with the flexibility to undertake tasks independently.

• A positive, self-motivated attitude and a proactive approach to tasks.

• A Levels or equivalent.

You must be prepared to work unsociable hours at certain times of the year. A full UK driving licence is essential as travelling to our other trial sites across the region and occasionally to our other centres around the UK is required.

Desirable requirements:

• Qualifications in science or an agricultural subject.

• Previous experience in agronomy, crop management, or field trials.

• Familiarity with using agricultural machinery or trials equipment.

• Forklift, PA1, PA2, PA4 and PA6.

• Microsoft Office skills, e.g. Word and Excel.

ABOUT US

Niab is a leading independent UK crop science organisation with research capabilities in plant genetics, agronomy, farming systems and data science, the largest national field trials capability, and strong research links with industry, government and academia.

With headquarters in Cambridge and regional offices across the country, employing more than 400 people across the UK, Niab provides scientific research, technical services and practical advice to improve the yield, efficiency and resilience of crop production across the arable, horticulture and top and soft fruit sectors.

WHY JOIN US

When you join Niab, you become part of a collaborative, inclusive, and supportive environment that values diversity and empowers everyone to succeed. With over 400 dedicated staff nationwide, we provide opportunities for professional growth and a chance to make a meaningful impact in the future of agriculture.

We offer a competitive salary, paid overtime during peak seasons, and a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• 25 days' holiday, plus public holidays and 3 extra days over Christmas.

• Generous pension scheme and sick pay.

• Life assurance, income protection, and employee discounts.

• A comprehensive training programme.

Niab actively promotes equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. As a Disability Confident Employer, we are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion and welcome applications from all sections of society.

TO APPLY

Informal enquiries are welcome; please contact Christopher Whyles, Centre Manager ( ).

For further details and to apply, please visit our website via the 'Apply' button.

Closing date: 19 February 2025.

Interview date: 4 March 2025 at our offices in Morley.

Please note that following changes to Immigration Law in April 2024, this role does not qualify for a Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. Candidates with independently held immigration permission would be considered.