Graduate Berry Breeding Assistant Grower

Graduate Berry Breeding Assistant Grower

Full Time

• Faversham

The Company

Edward Vinson Ltd. is based in the South East of England and has been growing fruit for over 150 years and now consists of three main departments: Breeding, Propagation and Commercial field production. Although strawberries were the sole target of the breeding program when it was initiated in 1986, the company has since developed strong raspberry, blackberry and blueberry programmes. All four of these crops are being bred for an improved eating experience for consumers, as well as for optimised grower traits. The breeding department at Edward Vinson consists of a core team of 13, with additional seasonal support.

Role description and responsibilities

This position is open to current undergraduate or recent graduate students in plant science, horticulture, plant breeding or related field. You will be a hands-on part of the growing team, which is experienced in the management, propagation and fruiting of strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and blackberries.

Comprehensive training will be provided, offering you the chance to develop expertise in berry production, breeding techniques, and crop management. This experience will position you for potential career growth and advancement within the company.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Maintenance of field and glasshouse crops for trials and use in the breeding programmes.
• Soft fruit plant propagation.
• Trial picking of fruit.
• Pest and disease prevention, detection and control.
• In addition to glasshouse tasks, field work and office duties as needed to support the wider breeding programmes.
• Exact specifics of role will be tailored to the successful candidate’s skills and those already within the team.

Requirements

• Full driving licence.
• Good communication skills with managers and co-workers.
• Meticulous, consistent attention to detail in all aspects of work.
• High tolerance to plant allergens.
• Ability to work on your feet for long hours.

Desirable

• A formal training in horticulture and/or experience in soft fruit production.
• PA1, PA6 and PA9 certificates.
• Previous experience in glasshouse growing.

Please note that a covering letter is required for your application to be considered.

Job Type: Flexitime, Full Time, Part Time

Pay Rate: £12.21/h

Place of work: Faversham, Kemsdale Farm

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