At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to learn and contribute to soft-fruit breeding projects.
- Company: Edward Vinson Ltd, a leading fruit grower with over 150 years of experience.
- Benefits: Hands-on training, career growth, and the chance to work with global partners.
- Other info: Full-time role in Faversham, with potential for accommodation.
- Why this job: Be part of creating innovative fruit varieties that make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Interest in plant science and good communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.
Grow your career in commercial plant breeding. Are you fascinated by plant science, genetics and the journey from a single cross to a successful new fruit variety? This is a rare opportunity to learn commercial soft-fruit breeding from an experienced, world-leading team and contribute to raspberry, blueberry and blackberry programmes with a global reach.
About Edward Vinson: Edward Vinson Ltd has been growing fruit in Kent for more than 150 years. Our business spans breeding, propagation and commercial fruit production. Over the last 40 years, our breeding programme has developed successful varieties supplied to major UK and international retailers. From our base in Faversham, we work with trial partners around the world to create high-value, premium varieties for the global market.
The opportunity: As a Trainee Plant Breeder, you will be a hands-on member of the Breeding Team, working alongside experienced breeders across every stage of the trial pipeline. You will receive practical training and structured development, with the aim of growing into a future Soft Fruit Breeder.
What you will be doing:
- Establishing new plant material: Assist with seed extraction, germination, seedling establishment and propagation across raspberry, blueberry and blackberry programmes.
- Creating new crosses: Carry out controlled pollination and flower emasculation in line with annual crossing plans.
- Selecting promising varieties: Score and select plants within progeny and trial blocks using commercial measures such as yield, fruit size, Brix and firmness.
- Capturing reliable data: Record accurate, real-time trial data using an online platform and help maintain Power BI dashboards and pedigree records.
- Caring for breeding trials: Support repotting, pruning and routine plant care in glasshouses, polytunnels and field plots.
- Supporting harvest: Pick fruit and assist with harvest and post-harvest evaluations during peak fruiting periods.
What we are looking for:
- A genuine interest in plant breeding, biology, genetics, horticulture, agriculture or commercial crop development.
- Excellent attention to detail, particularly when collecting data and maintaining pedigree records.
- Clear communication skills and the confidence to work with managers, colleagues, seasonal teams and external trial partners.
- Good computer skills, including Microsoft Office and Excel.
- A practical, adaptable approach and the ability to learn through hands-on training.
- The physical ability to work on your feet for extended periods in glasshouses and polytunnels.
- A full driving licence, reliable transport, a valid passport and flexibility for occasional overseas travel.
- Fluent English and the right to work in the UK.
Useful but not essential:
- A degree or equivalent qualification in horticulture, agriculture, biological sciences or a related subject.
- Experience in soft fruit, horticultural work, trial scoring, controlled pollination or data management.
Job details: Hours: Full-time, day shift. Flexibility and additional hours will be required during peak flowering and harvest periods. Location: Faversham, Kent. You must be able to commute reliably or relocate before starting. Accommodation may be available, subject to agreed terms. Start date: Expected 1 December 2026, with an earlier start possible. Application deadline: 30 September 2026.
How to apply: Apply with your CV and a cover letter explaining why soft-fruit breeding interests you and how your skills or experience would help you succeed in this practical trainee role. Applications without a cover letter will not be considered.
Ready to help develop the soft-fruit varieties of the future? Apply today.
Trainee Plant Breeder (Soft Fruit) in Faversham employer: Edward Vinson Limited
At Edward Vinson, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment that values innovation and employee contributions. With competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits including a robust Employee Assistance Programme, and ample opportunities for professional development, our team members are empowered to grow their careers while making a meaningful impact in the field of berry breeding. Located in the picturesque South East of England, you will be part of a pioneering company with a rich history and a commitment to quality and sustainability.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Plant Breeder (Soft Fruit) in Faversham
✨Connect with Local Farmers and Co-ops
Don't underestimate the power of local connections in agriculture. Get involved in local farmers' markets or agricultural co-ops. These are great places to meet potential employers and get the inside scoop on job openings before they're even advertised.
✨Get Involved in Agricultural Events
Keep an eye out for agricultural fairs, conferences, and workshops in your area. These events are golden opportunities to network with industry professionals and showcase your passion. You might even stumble across job boards or companies actively looking to hire!
✨Volunteer for Relevant Experience
Consider volunteering with organisations focused on agriculture, sustainability, or community gardening. This not only boosts your CV but also expands your network. You never know who might be watching your hard work and dedication!
✨Keep an Eye on Job Listings at Industry-Specific Websites
Be sure to check out agriculture-focused job boards and websites regularly. Companies like Edward Vinson Limited often post opportunities on their own sites before anywhere else, so don’t miss out! Apply directly through us to increase your chances!
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Plant Breeder (Soft Fruit) in Faversham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in agriculture, it's crucial to highlight any hands-on experience you have in farming, crop management, or sustainable practices. We want to see how your background aligns with the role you're after, so be specific about the responsibilities you've had and any tools or techniques you've used.
Certifications Matter:In agriculture, relevant certifications can really give your application a boost. If you have any qualifications related to agricultural practices, pest management, or environmental regulations, make sure to mention them! They're great indicators of your commitment and expertise in the field.
Tailor Your CV to the Agriculture Sector:Your CV should reflect your passion for agriculture. Structure it to emphasise your field experience and any relevant projects you've been involved in. Don't forget to highlight your soft skills, like teamwork and communication, which are essential in this sector.
Passion is Key in Your Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time position, we want to feel your enthusiasm for agriculture in your cover letter. Share why you're drawn to this industry and mention any long-term goals you have that align with what Edward Vinson Limited does. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Edward Vinson Limited
✨Get Familiar with Agricultural Technologies
Make sure you're up to speed with the latest agricultural technologies and tools that are commonly used in the field. Whether it’s precision farming tools or crop management software, being able to discuss these effectively during your interview with Edward Vinson Limited will show that you're technically savvy and ready to contribute from day one.
✨Showcase Your Practical Experience
Since agriculture is a hands-on industry, be prepared to share any practical experiences you've had. This could be through internships, volunteer work, or even personal projects. Discussing specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them can really impress the interviewers, especially in a full-time role at Edward Vinson Limited.
✨Understand the Sustainable Practices
Sustainability is a hot topic in agriculture right now, so it's important to understand current practices and regulations in the industry. Familiarise yourself with concepts like crop rotation, organic farming, and environmental impact. Having informed opinions on these topics can set you apart from other candidates during your interview.
✨Practice Common Industry Scenarios
Expect to tackle a few scenario-based questions that mimic real-life challenges in agriculture. For instance, you might be asked how you would handle a pest infestation or manage resources during a drought. Practising these scenarios will help you respond confidently and showcase your problem-solving skills during the interview with Edward Vinson Limited.
