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 agricultural innovation near Cambridge.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days annual leave, competitive pension, and private healthcare.
- Other info: Flexible hours during peak seasons and opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in plant breeding while developing your skills.
- 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.
What you can expect in this role:
- 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.
What you bring in:
- Bachelor’s 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 licence is required; confidence in driving is essential.
- Willingness to work longer hours during harvest, drilling and other peak periods.
Our offer:
- Key focus on professional and personal development. "Make yourself grow".
- 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.
Due to UK visa regulations for this role, applicants must already have long‑term eligibility to work in the UK.
Breeding Technician Winter Barley employer: KWS Group
KWS UK Ltd. is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and supportive work environment for those passionate about plant breeding and agronomy. Located in Thriplow near Cambridge, we prioritise professional growth with extensive training opportunities, competitive benefits including a generous pension scheme, and a strong focus on employee well-being. Join our dedicated team and contribute to innovative barley breeding programmes while enjoying a healthy work-life balance and a culture that values collaboration and personal development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Breeding Technician Winter Barley
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research KWS UK Ltd. and their Winter Barley programmes. Understanding their values and goals will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former employees on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info about the role and the team, plus it might just land you a referral, which is always a bonus!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for practical assessments! Since this role involves hands-on work, be ready to demonstrate your skills in field operations or data management. Brush up on your Excel skills and think of examples from your experience that showcase your attention to detail.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re proactive and serious about joining the KWS team. Don’t forget to follow up after applying to express your enthusiasm!
We think you need these skills to ace Breeding Technician Winter Barley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Breeding Technician role. Highlight any relevant experience in plant breeding, agronomy, or data management. We want to see how your background fits with what we do!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about barley breeding and how your skills align with our team's needs. Keep it engaging and personal – we love to see your enthusiasm!
Show Off Your Data Skills:Since data management is key for this role, make sure to mention your computer literacy and any experience with databases. We’re looking for someone who can handle data like a pro, so don’t hold back!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy – just follow the prompts!
How to prepare for a job interview at KWS Group
✨Know Your Breeding Basics
Brush up on your knowledge of plant breeding, especially in relation to barley. Be ready to discuss specific techniques you've used in previous roles, like pest control or data management. This shows you're not just familiar with the theory but have practical experience too.
✨Show Off Your Data Skills
Since data management is key for this role, prepare to talk about your experience with Excel and any in-house software you've used. Bring examples of how you've successfully managed data in past positions, as this will demonstrate your competence and attention to detail.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
This job requires both independent work and teamwork. Think of examples where you've successfully collaborated with others or taken the lead on a project. Highlighting your flexibility and ability to adapt to different working styles will make you stand out.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions that assess your hands-on skills, like how you'd approach tasks in the field or glasshouse. Be ready to explain your thought process and decision-making in practical scenarios, as this will show your problem-solving abilities and readiness for the role.
