At a Glance
- Tasks: Support daily operations of a 70-sow indoor pig unit and assist with animal husbandry.
- Company: ARU, a global university known for innovative education and impactful research.
- Benefits: Generous holiday entitlement, pension scheme, training opportunities, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Part-time role with flexible hours and opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience in agriculture while contributing to a progressive educational setting.
- Qualifications: Experience with pigs and knowledge of livestock husbandry and animal welfare.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 28000 £ per year.
About ARU: ARU is a global university transforming lives through innovative, inclusive and entrepreneurial education and research. ARU holds a Gold award for the quality of its education, awarded through the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF). ARU’s research institutes and four faculties bridge scientific, technical and creative fields. We deliver impactful research which tackles pressing issues and makes a real difference to our communities.
About the Role: ARU Writtle is seeking a reliable and motivated Assistant Stockperson to support the day‑to‑day operation of the university’s 70‑sow indoor pig unit. This part‑time role (29.6 hours per week) includes regular weekend working and offers an excellent opportunity to develop experience within a progressive agricultural and educational environment.
Working as part of the Estates & Facilities team, the successful candidate will assist with all aspects of pig husbandry including feeding, bedding, cleaning, farrowing, piglet processing and maintaining high standards of animal welfare, hygiene and biosecurity. The role will also involve supporting wider farm and estate duties, operating farm machinery where required and assisting with student activities on the unit.
We are looking for someone with previous experience working with pigs and a sound understanding of livestock husbandry, animal welfare and safe working practices within agriculture. The successful candidate will be proactive, dependable and capable of working both independently and as part of a team, with the ability to communicate effectively and adapt to the needs of a busy working farm. Experience within an educational setting and operating farm machinery would be advantageous.
In return ARU offers the opportunity to work within a supportive university environment that values collaboration, innovation and professional development. We offer generous holiday entitlement, an occupational pension scheme, training and development opportunities, a travel to work scheme and a competitive relocation package.
We value diversity at ARU and welcome applications from all sections of the community.
Assistant Stockperson in Writtle employer: Anglia Ruskin University
ARU is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative environment that prioritises professional development and innovation. As part of the Estates & Facilities team at our Writtle campus, you will gain valuable experience in agricultural practices while contributing to impactful research and education. With generous holiday entitlement, an occupational pension scheme, and various training opportunities, ARU is committed to fostering employee growth and well-being.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Stockperson in Writtle
✨Get Your Hands Dirty in the Community
Nothing beats on-the-ground experience when it comes to agriculture. Volunteer at local farms or join community gardening projects to meet industry folks. They often have inside info on part-time gigs that might not even be advertised yet!
✨Tap Into Agriculture Networks
Join local agricultural societies or online forums specific to your area. These communities are goldmines for part-time opportunities and can connect you with farmers and organisations looking for helping hands.
✨Seasonal Availability Is Key
Make sure you know when the busy seasons are! Many farms ramp up hiring during planting and harvest times. Keep an eye out for those windows and shoot your applications off early through our website to increase your chances.
✨Show Off Your Passion!
Bring your enthusiasm to the table. During interviews or interactions, share any relevant coursework or experiences you’ve had in agriculture. Whether it’s a school project or a home garden, showing that you're keen can set you apart when competing for that part-time role with Anglia Ruskin University.
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Stockperson in Writtle
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In your CV, make sure to shine a light on any agriculture-related experience you've got, whether it's from coursework, volunteer work, or hands-on jobs. Don't forget about specific skills like crop management or knowledge of sustainable practices; those are real winners for Anglia Ruskin University!
Show Off Your Passion:In your cover letter, let your enthusiasm for agriculture come through! Talk about why you're passionate about working in this field and what makes you excited about the opportunity at Anglia Ruskin University. We love hearing personal stories that connect you to the agriculture world!
Tailor Your Application:Avoid the one-size-fits-all approach. Make sure to tailor your CV and cover letter for the part-time role at Anglia Ruskin University. This might mean adjusting the wording to reflect the specific tasks and responsibilities mentioned in the job listing, ensuring you clearly fit the bill.
Include Certifications or Courses:If you have any relevant certifications or courses related to agriculture, make sure to include those! Whether it's a short course in sustainable farming or a certification in organic agriculture, these can really boost your application. It shows you're dedicated to the field and continuously learning!
How to prepare for a job interview at Anglia Ruskin University
✨Brush Up on Your Technical Knowledge
Given the agriculture field, it's vital we understand farming techniques, equipment, and even pest management strategies. Be ready to discuss specific practices you've encountered or used—perhaps your experience with certain crops or technologies in farming.
✨Showcase Your Practical Experience
Employers want to see that we can apply our knowledge in the field. If you've had hands-on experience—like internships, volunteering on a farm, or even personal projects—talk about them! Share what you learned and how it shaped your understanding of agricultural processes.
✨Flexibility & Commitment—Key for Part-Time Roles
Part-time roles often require a bit of juggling. Be ready to show your willingness to adapt your schedule for peak seasons or specific needs that come up. Discuss your availability openly, and highlight your enthusiasm for being part of the team.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
In agriculture, we might face situations that test our problem-solving skills. Expect questions like how we'd handle a pest outbreak or deal with unpredictable weather. Practise articulating your thought process and solutions, as it shows we can think on our feet.
