At a Glance
- Tasks: Operate modern farm machinery and conduct field trials with precision.
- Company: Established agricultural research organisation focused on innovation and sustainability.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, discounted accommodation, and clear career progression.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for training and development in agriculture.
- Why this job: Join a team making a real impact in sustainable farming and crop production.
- Qualifications: Experience with farm machinery and relevant agricultural qualifications.
The predicted salary is between 33000 - 39000 £ per year.
You will be responsible for delivering field operations to a high agricultural standard, ensuring all work is carried out accurately and in line with established protocols. This role suits a competent machinery operator with a strong eye for detail and a methodical approach. You will be part of the wider farm team, using modern GPS‑guided equipment across a range of tasks including cultivation, drilling, fertilising and harvesting, alongside workshop projects and general yard duties. The position offers a clear pathway for long‑term development within agriculture, with opportunities for training and progression.
Key Responsibilities
- Operate modern farm machinery (including GPS‑guided systems) across all field operations
- Carry out cultivation, drilling, fertilising, spraying, and harvesting activities
- Follow trial protocols and instructions with accuracy and attention to detail
- Maintain high standards of health & safety and safe working practices
- Undertake routine machinery maintenance and basic workshop tasks
- Plan and prioritise workloads in line with schedules and seasonal demands
- Keep accurate and up-to-date records of field activities and trials
- Manage stock control and ordering within agreed budgets
- Identify and resolve routine operational issues using initiative
- Support wider farm operations, including general yard duties
- Communicate effectively with colleagues and respond to work instructions
- Undertake any other duties reasonably required in line with the role level
The Company
Our client is a long established UK‑based agricultural research organisation with a strong reputation for delivering applied science and innovation within the sector. Operating as a charitable body, the organisation undertakes a blend of practical fieldwork and advanced scientific research to support progress in sustainable farming systems and crop production. Based across a large rural research estate, the business integrates commercial scale agricultural operations with specialist laboratory capability, covering areas such as plant science, soil performance and data‑led field experimentation.
Candidate Qualifications
- Certificates of competence: NPTC PA2, PA4, PA6 Telescopic rough terrain handler
- Agronomy qualifications (FACTS, BASIS)
- Technical or scientific education in Agriculture or a related subject (HND, HNC, C & G, etc.)
- Full UK Manual Driving Licence
- Legal right to work in the UK or a valid visa permitting employment
Package
Salary £33,000 - £39,000 DOE
Discounted accommodation
Fixed term 3 years
Farm and Field Trials Operator - Harpenden - £33,000 - £39,000 Accommodation employer: Agricultural Recruitment Specialists
Contact Detail:
Agricultural Recruitment Specialists Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Farm and Field Trials Operator - Harpenden - £33,000 - £39,000 Accommodation
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research their values and recent projects. When you show up for an interview, drop in some knowledge about their work – it’ll impress them and show you’re genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Run through common interview questions with a mate or in front of the mirror. The more comfortable you are, the better you’ll come across when it’s time to shine.
✨Tip Number 3
Dress the part! Make sure your outfit is suitable for the role and the company culture. Looking smart and professional can give you that extra boost of confidence.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Farm and Field Trials Operator - Harpenden - £33,000 - £39,000 Accommodation
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Agriculture: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for agriculture shine through! We want to see how your experiences and interests align with the role of Farm and Field Trials Operator. Share any relevant projects or experiences that highlight your commitment to sustainable farming.
Be Detail-Oriented: Since attention to detail is key in this role, make sure your application reflects that. Double-check for any typos or errors, and ensure your CV and cover letter are well-structured. We appreciate a methodical approach, so show us you can deliver that right from the start!
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send out a generic application! Take the time to tailor your CV and cover letter to match the job description. Highlight your experience with modern machinery and GPS systems, and explain how your skills fit the responsibilities outlined in the role.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of success. It’s super easy, and you’ll be able to showcase your application in the best light. Plus, it helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at Agricultural Recruitment Specialists
✨Know Your Machinery
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of modern farm machinery, especially GPS-guided systems. Be ready to discuss your experience operating these machines and how you've maintained them in the past.
✨Understand the Protocols
Familiarise yourself with common agricultural protocols and practices. During the interview, demonstrate your attention to detail by discussing how you’ve followed protocols in previous roles, ensuring accuracy in field operations.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
This role is all about teamwork, so be prepared to talk about your experiences working collaboratively. Share examples of how you’ve communicated effectively with colleagues and supported wider farm operations.
✨Highlight Your Problem-Solving Skills
Be ready to discuss how you've identified and resolved operational issues in the past. Use specific examples to showcase your initiative and methodical approach to overcoming challenges in the field.