Potato Trials Officer in Spalding

Looking to build a career in agronomy with one of the UK's most important crops? We're recruiting on behalf of a leading fresh produce business seeking a Junior Agronomist/Trials Officer to join its Agronomy & Innovation team. This is a newly created role designed to support the next generation of agronomy talent. Working alongside highly experienced agronomists, you'll receive hands-on training, exposure to commercial crop production, and the opportunity to develop into a respected crop specialist. If you're passionate about agriculture, enjoy working outdoors, and want a career that combines science, problem-solving, crop production, and field-based research, this could be the perfect next step. The Opportunity This is not a desk-based role. You'll spend much of your time out in the field visiting growers, monitoring crops, collecting data, assessing crop performance, and supporting a variety of agronomy and innovation projects. Working closely with the Agronomy Manager and Head of Agronomy & Innovation, you'll become involved in both the practical and technical aspects of crop production, helping to support growers while contributing to variety trials, quality improvement initiatives, and sustainability projects. No two days are likely to be the same. One week you could be assessing potatoes in field trials and collecting crop data. Another may involve crop monitoring visits, test digs, post-harvest assessments, or analysing trial results and sharing findings with the wider team. What You'll Be Doing Crop Monitoring & Agronomy Support Visit grower crops alongside experienced agronomists Assist with crop assessments and agronomy recommendations Monitor crop health, development, yield potential, and quality Support growers in achieving premium crop specificationsTrials & Innovation Assist with the planning, planting, monitoring, and harvesting of field trials Support variety development programmes Collect, record, and analyse trial data Help evaluate new technologies, growing practices, and crop improvement opportunities Communicate findings to technical, commercial, procurement, and customer teamsHarvest & Post-Harvest Assessment Carry out crop sampling and test digs Assess crop quality before and after harvest Wash, grade, inspect, and record trial and commercial crop samples Support post-harvest analysis and reportingData & Reporting Record trial observations and field data accurately Assist in analysing and interpreting agronomic results Generate reports that support grower decision-making and future crop improvements About You We're looking for someone with a genuine passion for crop production and a desire to develop a long-term career in agronomy. You may be: An Assistant Agronomist Trials Technician Graduate Crop Scientist Farm Technician Crop Technician Agricultural Graduate Junior GrowerSomeone with practical farming or fresh produce experience looking to move into agronomy This role will suit someone who enjoys practical work and doesn't mind getting their boots dirty. You'll spend considerable time outdoors in all seasons and weather conditions, carrying out crop monitoring, trial work, sampling, and assessments. There will also be some office-based work involving data analysis, reporting, and planning, but this is very much a role for someone who enjoys being in the field. You'll Ideally Have: An interest in agronomy and commercial crop production Some experience working with crops, agriculture, horticulture, fresh produce, or field trials Excellent attention to detail Strong organisational and problem-solving skills A willingness to learn and develop technical expertise Good communication skills The ability to work independently and as part of a team A flexible and adaptable approachExperience with potatoes would be beneficial, but it's not essential. Candidates with experience in other crops or agricultural sectors are encouraged to apply. BASIS & Development Candidates who are currently studying towards BASIS, recently qualified, or looking to undertake BASIS training are particularly encouraged to apply. For the right individual, support can be provided to help further your professional development and technical qualifications. What's on Offer? £30,000 - £35,000 salary Mentoring from experienced agronomists Exposure to commercial crop production and field research Long-term career progression within agronomy Varied and rewarding role with real responsibility Opportunity to become a key member of a growing technical team Apply Today This is an excellent opportunity for an ambitious individual looking to build a career in agronomy, crop science, or fresh produce production. If you're enthusiastic, practical, eager to learn, and excited by the idea of helping growers produce high-quality crops while contributing to innovative field trials, we'd love to hear from you. Interested? For an informal chat, please call Emily on (phone number removed) or email (url removed). Don't worry if your CV isn't up to date, just send what you have already, and we can sort the rest later