At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead wheat yield trials and manage a high-performing trials team.
- Company: KWS UK Ltd., passionate about advancing agriculture through innovation.
- Benefits: 30 days leave, competitive pension, private healthcare, and lifestyle discounts.
- Other info: Join a supportive culture with social events and excellent career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in agriculture while working in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: 3+ years in agricultural trials and experience managing teams.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
At KWS UK Ltd., we are passionate about advancing agriculture through innovation and excellence. We are looking for an experienced and motivated Sr. Station Technician UK to join our team in Thriplow. In this role, you will take the lead in managing wheat yield trials while contributing to a collaborative and high-performing trials team. If you thrive in a dynamic, hands-on environment and are committed to delivering high-quality results, we would love to hear from you.
Your Responsibilities and tasks:
- Lead the successful management of all KWS UK wheat yield trials
- Ensure the timely delivery of accurate, high-quality data to relevant stakeholders
- Support trials across other crop species as part of the UK Trials team
- Plan and execute all trial operations, including trial placement, seed preparation, drilling, electronic field book preparation, vermin control, trait scoring, harvest preparation, and data processing (capture, upload, validation, and presentation)
- Assess resource requirements for wheat trials, secure necessary resources, and ensure their efficient use
- Communicate effectively with both internal and external stakeholders
- Manage, supervise, and support teams of seasonal staff
- Contribute to trials for other crop species, including seed preparation, planting, scoring, and harvesting
- Ensure all operations are carried out in accordance with Health & Safety procedures
Your Profile:
- At least three years of experience within agricultural trials
- Agricultural or related university/college qualification
- Experience managing and supervising small teams
- Strong knowledge of arable crop operations, particularly wheat agronomy
- Fluent in English
- Full UK driving licence
- PA1 and PA11 certifications, as well as counterbalance forklift and telehandler licences (desirable)
- Strong literacy and numeracy skills, including proficiency with Microsoft Excel and database systems
Core Competencies:
- Excellent organisational skills with the ability to plan and deliver tasks efficiently
- Strong team player with effective communication skills across all levels
- Reliable, trustworthy, and accountable for own responsibilities
- Self-motivated, proactive, and capable of working independently
- Flexible and adaptable to seasonal workloads, with willingness to work extended hours during peak periods such as harvest and drilling
- Commitment to working in line with KWS values
What We Offer:
- 30 days of annual leave plus bank holidays
- Highly competitive pension scheme with a 16% company contribution and 1.2% minimum employee contribution
- Life assurance at three times annual salary
- Income protection plan (75% of salary for up to three years in case of long-term illness or disability)
- Private healthcare plan
- Profit-related bonus scheme (targeted at 10% of annual salary)
- Access to a lifestyle discounts scheme
- Reduced diesel prices via the company fuel pump
- A supportive and inclusive work culture where teamwork and well-being are prioritized, along with social events such as a summer BBQ, Christmas party, and charity initiatives
Did we spark your interest? Then apply now via our online portal and send us your documents. 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.
Senior Technicians employer: KWS
At KWS UK Ltd., we pride ourselves on fostering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises teamwork and employee well-being. Located in Thriplow, our team enjoys a range of benefits including 30 days of annual leave, a highly competitive pension scheme, and opportunities for professional growth within the agricultural sector. Join us to be part of a dynamic environment where your contributions directly impact the advancement of agriculture through innovation and excellence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Technicians
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the agricultural sector, especially those who might know someone at KWS UK Ltd. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to insider info or even a referral, which can give you a leg up in the hiring process.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of wheat agronomy and trial management. We recommend having specific examples ready that showcase your experience and how you’ve successfully managed trials in the past. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly understands the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for agriculture during the interview! Talk about why you love working in this field and how you align with KWS's values. We want to see that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you’re genuinely excited about contributing to their mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at KWS UK Ltd. So, get those documents ready and hit that apply button!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Technicians
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Senior Technician role. Highlight your agricultural trials experience and any relevant qualifications to show us you're the right fit!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about advancing agriculture and how your background aligns with our values at KWS UK Ltd. Keep it engaging and personal.
Showcase Your Teamwork Skills:Since this role involves managing teams, be sure to mention your experience in leading and supporting others. We love seeing examples of collaboration and effective communication in your application!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply via our online portal. It’s straightforward and ensures your application gets to the right place. Plus, we can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at KWS
✨Know Your Wheat
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of wheat agronomy and the specifics of yield trials. Be prepared to discuss your past experiences managing similar trials and how you ensured high-quality data delivery.
✨Showcase Your Team Leadership
Since this role involves managing seasonal staff, think of examples where you've successfully led a team. Highlight your communication skills and how you motivate others to achieve results, especially in a hands-on environment.
✨Be Data Savvy
Familiarise yourself with data processing techniques and tools, particularly Microsoft Excel. Be ready to discuss how you've captured, validated, and presented data in previous roles, as this will be crucial for the position.
✨Emphasise Safety and Compliance
Understand the Health & Safety procedures relevant to agricultural operations. Prepare to discuss how you've implemented safety measures in past roles and your commitment to maintaining a safe working environment.
