At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Barley Breeding team and assist with hands-on field and glasshouse operations.
- Company: KWS UK Ltd. - a leader in innovative agricultural solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days annual leave, competitive pension, and private health care.
- Other info: Flexible hours during peak seasons and opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in agriculture while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Degree in Natural Sciences or related field; practical experience preferred.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Our KWS UK Ltd. Barley Breeding Team is currently seeking at the earliest opportunity a Breeding Technician to support our Winter Barley programmes. This is a full-time, permanent position based in Thriplow near Cambridge. We offer a hands-on working environment and the chance to work with highly motivated and qualified colleagues.
The successful candidate will be responsible for a wide range of seasonal tasks within our Barley Breeding team:
- You will have the chance to assist with field, barn and glasshouse operations essential for the successful development of new varieties.
- Practical breeding work, including scoring in nurseries and field trials as well as drilling, pest control, maintenance, rogueing and harvesting.
- Work in glasshouse including sowing, harvesting, transplanting and crossing.
- Work indoors including seed cleaning and processing, seed sampling and testing, seed preparation.
- Data Management is an essential part of this position, uploading and dealing with data on Excel and in-house software.
The successful candidate will be supported in their development within the role, including training opportunities.
Required profile:
- Bachelors degree in Natural Sciences, Plant Breeding, Genetics or Agronomy or equivalent experience.
- You have ideally already gained practical experience of a few years in the field of cereal breeding and agronomy.
- Good computer literacy skills and competent in using databases and managing data.
- Good English skills (oral and written).
- You are known to be a detailed-oriented and organized person.
- This position requires a flexible approach and ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Valid full driving license is required; confidence in driving is essential.
- Willingness to work longer hours during harvest, drilling and other peak periods.
What we offer:
- Key focus on professional and personal development.
- 35 working hours weekly; additional working hours will be expected based on seasonal demands (May - Sep).
- 30 days of annual leave plus bank holidays.
- Highly competitive Pension Scheme with 16% Company contribution and 1.2% minimum employee contribution.
- Life Assurance, of three times annual salary.
- Income Protection Plan at 75% of salary for long-term illness and disability for a period of three years.
- Private Health Care Plan.
- Profit Related Bonus Scheme, targeted at 10% of annual salary.
- Membership of Lifestyles discount scheme.
- Reduced diesel prices from the company’s fuel pump.
Did we spark your interest? Then apply now via our online portal and send us your documents (cover letter and CV). We look forward to getting to know you! Due to UK visa regulations for this role, applicants must already have long-term eligibility to work in the UK.
Breeding Technician Winter Barley in Norwich employer: KWS Berlin GmbH
KWS UK Ltd. offers an exceptional working environment for a Breeding Technician in Thriplow, near Cambridge, where you will collaborate with a dedicated team on innovative barley breeding projects. With a strong emphasis on professional development, competitive benefits including a generous pension scheme, private healthcare, and a profit-related bonus, KWS fosters a culture of growth and support, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment in the agricultural sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Breeding Technician Winter Barley in Norwich
✨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 KWS Berlin GmbH 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 Breeding Technician Winter Barley in Norwich
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 KWS Berlin GmbH does. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at KWS Berlin GmbH
✨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 KWS Berlin GmbH 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 KWS Berlin GmbH.
✨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 KWS Berlin GmbH.
