At a Glance
- Tasks: Support animal care, welfare, and student learning in a vibrant educational environment.
- Company: Plumpton College, a leader in land and environmental education in the UK.
- Benefits: 26 days annual leave, pension scheme, gym access, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Join a supportive community with a commitment to wellbeing and equal opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in animal welfare while inspiring the next generation of animal professionals.
- Qualifications: Level 3 qualification in Animal Management and practical experience in an animal setting.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 30000 £ per year.
Plumpton College is a leading provider of land and environmental education in the UK, situated in the heart of the South Downs National Park. We offer a wide range of vocational and academic courses for students of all ages studying from level 1 to Masters degree and across nineteen subject areas including agriculture, animal management, veterinary sciences, horticulture, equine studies, wine, and environmental studies. Our approach is underpinned by our core values — Professional, Ambitious, Passionate, Supportive, Progressive, and Enterprising — which guide everything we do. We are proud to foster a culture that expects high standards, encourages innovation, and prioritises the learner experience.
About the role: We are seeking a committed and enthusiastic Animal Technician to support the day-to-day operation of the Animal Education Centre and contribute to the delivery of an outstanding student experience. This role is central to maintaining excellent standards of animal welfare and husbandry while helping students develop practical, industry-relevant skills in a safe and engaging learning environment. The working pattern for this role is currently Thursday to Monday; however, this may be reviewed in line with business needs.
You will:
- support the daily care, welfare, health monitoring and enrichment of the animal collection
- ensure high standards of animal husbandry and compliance with animal welfare legislation, licence conditions and industry best practice
- supervise and support students in practical sessions, including weekends and holiday periods
- deliver and manage practical classes, gather evidence and assess students within the practical environment
- maintain accurate records relating to animal welfare, centre operations and student progress
About you You will bring:
- a Level 3 qualification in Animal Management or a related subject
- practical experience of working within an animal unit or similar environment
- strong organisational skills and the ability to prioritise work effectively
- confidence working independently and supporting students in a practical setting
- good communication, IT, literacy and numeracy skills, with a flexible and professional approach
You’ll benefit from:
- 26 Days’ annual leave plus bank holidays and efficiency days
- eligible for the Local Government Pension Scheme, including employer contributions and life assurance
- high-quality CPD and professional development opportunities
- disability confident employer and signatory of the Menopause Pledge
- eligibility for a TOTUM and Blue Light Card
- free eye tests
- free use of our onsite gym
- cycle-to-work scheme
- electric vehicle salary sacrifice
- discounted Plumpton produce and courses
- free onsite parking
- access to our Employee Assistance Programme
Our commitment to wellbeing and community is further demonstrated through active EDI and Sustainability committees, regular staff events and social activities throughout the year. Plumpton College is committed to the promotion of equal opportunities and is dedicated to pursuing non-discriminatory policies and practices and eliminating unfair discrimination on any basis. Plumpton is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of learners and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
Animal Technician in Lewes employer: Plumpton College
Plumpton College is an excellent employer that prioritises inclusivity and professional growth, making it a rewarding place for those passionate about supporting learners with special educational needs. With a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits including a pension scheme and employee assistance programme, and a strong commitment to continuous professional development, employees can thrive in a supportive work culture that values their contributions. Located in a vibrant educational environment, this role offers unique opportunities to make a meaningful impact on students' lives while advancing your career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Animal Technician in Lewes
✨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 Plumpton College 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 Animal Technician in Lewes
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 Plumpton College does. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Plumpton College
✨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 Plumpton College 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 Plumpton College.
✨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 Plumpton College.
