Agricultural Science Technician (Crop Technology) in Leicester

Overview

The Agricultural Science team within Pepsi Co Global R&D is seeking an Agricultural Science Technician to support field trials, crop technology evaluations, and data collection activities across our potato and oat research programmes.

This is a hands-on role suited to someone who enjoys practical work across field, laboratory, post-harvest, and factory environments, is interested in agricultural innovation, and is keen to develop experience with emerging technologies used to support crop research and variety evaluation.

Working within the Crop Technology team, you will support field trials, technology evaluations, sample assessments, and data collection activities that underpin high-quality agricultural research.

You'll work closely with colleagues across Crop Technology, Trialling Excellence, and Variety Deployment, contributing to projects that help advance crop improvement, variety evaluation, and technology development across Pepsi Co Ag Science.

The role offers the opportunity to work with a range of agricultural technologies, including sensors, drones, imaging systems, and digital data collection tools, while building practical experience across field, laboratory, post-harvest, and factory environments.

Through accurate trial execution, sample processing, and data collection, you will play an important role in generating the high-quality evidence that supports innovation across our agricultural research programmes.

Responsibilities

• Support the delivery of field trials through trial establishment, crop assessments, sampling, harvest activities, and data collection.
• Support the operation and evaluation of agricultural technologies, including sensors, drones, imaging systems, grading equipment, and associated data collection tools.
• Collect, process, and maintain trial data and samples in accordance with agreed protocols, ensuring high standards of accuracy, quality, and traceability.
• Carry out sample preparation, sample processing, and post-harvest assessments to support crop evaluation, variety deployment, and technology validation programmes.
• Assist with the preparation and maintenance of trial equipment, materials, and supplies, supporting efficient programme delivery.
• Work collaboratively with scientists, technicians, growers, and research partners while contributing to safe and effective working practices across field, laboratory, post-harvest, and factory environments.

Qualifications

• Qualification or practical experience in Agriculture, Crop Science, Plant Science, Biology, Environmental Science, or a related discipline.
• Experience supporting agricultural trials, field research, laboratory activities, sample processing, or technical operations.
• Strong practical skills in sample collection, processing, handling, and data recording.

Confidence using digital tools, spreadsheets, databases, and electronic data capture systems.

• Ability to follow technical protocols and standard operating procedures while maintaining high standards of accuracy and quality.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple activities and priorities.
• A proactive, dependable, and collaborative approach, with an interest in agricultural technologies and willingness to learn new tools and techniques.
• Driving license.