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- Tasks: Service and enhance insect surveillance tech while collaborating with diverse stakeholders.
- Company: Join a leading research team at Rothamsted, focused on impactful scientific work.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days annual leave, a generous pension, and access to recreational activities.
- Other info: Flexible working with opportunities for professional development and travel across the UK.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in UK agriculture and ecology through innovative insect monitoring.
- Qualifications: NVQ Level 3 in electrical/mechanical trade and practical experience in health and safety.
The predicted salary is between 37191 - 37191 £ per year.
We are seeking a practical, hands-on Scientific Support Specialist - Insect Survey Engineer to service and enhance our current insect surveillance infrastructure, and develop new technologies to support nationally impactful research. This role is a core member of the Rothamsted Insect Survey (RIS) team, contributing to outputs for a diverse range of stakeholders, informing UK agronomists, crop growers, ecologists, scientists and policy makers.
What You’ll Do
- You will take ownership of the servicing, repair and development of RIS insect traps, and interact with individuals running equipment at diverse UK-wide sites.
- Knowledge of entomology is not essential, but a strong appreciation for scientific research and the value of insect surveillance is desirable.
- The jobholder will have access to a fully equipped workshop from which to perform duties.
- A high level of interpersonal skills, a flexible attitude and willingness to travel with overnight stays will be required.
- Around 10% of your time may be embedded within Rothamsted’s Facilities, Engineering and Maintenance department, providing access to additional training and professional development.
Key Responsibilities
- Servicing, repairing and upgrading insect trapping infrastructure (including working at height where required).
- Designing, developing and building new monitoring equipment.
- Managing your own workload through careful planning, record-keeping and cost-effective scheduling.
- Supporting and liaising with volunteers and site operators across the UK.
- Ensuring all work meets health and safety requirements and best practice.
- Communicating effectively with line managers and collaborators.
What We’re Looking For
- Demonstrable competence in electrical and/or mechanical work, evidenced by NVQ Level 3 (or higher) in an electrical or mechanical trade discipline.
- Relevant City & Guilds-supported or equivalent professional development qualifications (Engineering, Manufacturing Industry, or Building Services Engineering particularly welcomed).
- Practical experience working safely and in line with health and safety legislation, including: Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, Electricity at Work Regulations 1989, Control of Substances Hazardous to Health.
- Full UK driving licence (company vehicle provided following a brief proficiency assessment).
Benefits
We offer an attractive benefits package including 30 days annual leave, a generous pension scheme, Employee Assistance Programme and an on-site campus providing cultural and recreational activities, such as a gym and a Sports and Social Club.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
As a Disability Confident Employer, we are committed to making reasonable adjustments to the recruitment process. All disabled candidates who satisfy the minimum criteria for the role will be guaranteed an interview. Applications from candidates irrespective of their background, gender, race, sexual orientation, religion or age are welcomed, providing the required criteria is met.
Scientific Support Specialist - Insect Survey Engineer employer: Rothamsted Research
Contact Detail:
Rothamsted Research Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Scientific Support Specialist - Insect Survey Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend relevant events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Understand their work in insect surveillance and think about how your skills can contribute. This will help you stand out and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Since this role involves liaising with volunteers and site operators, being able to convey your ideas clearly is key. Try mock interviews with friends or use online resources to sharpen your skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Scientific Support Specialist - Insect Survey Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Science: When writing your application, let us see your enthusiasm for scientific research and insect surveillance. Share any relevant experiences or projects that highlight your interest in the field, even if you don't have a formal background in entomology.
Highlight Your Technical Skills: Make sure to showcase your electrical and mechanical skills clearly. If you've got qualifications like NVQ Level 3 or City & Guilds, mention them! We want to know how your hands-on experience can contribute to our insect trapping infrastructure.
Be Organised and Detail-Oriented: Since managing your workload is key in this role, demonstrate your organisational skills in your application. Talk about how you plan, keep records, and schedule tasks effectively. This will show us you're ready to take ownership of your responsibilities.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Rothamsted Research
✨Know Your Stuff
Familiarise yourself with the basics of insect surveillance and the technologies used in the field. Even if you don't have a background in entomology, showing that you understand the importance of insect monitoring will impress your interviewers.
✨Show Off Your Skills
Be ready to discuss your electrical or mechanical skills in detail. Bring examples of past projects or experiences that demonstrate your competence, especially any relevant qualifications like NVQ Level 3. This will help you stand out as a practical candidate.
✨Plan for the Unexpected
Since this role involves travel and working at various sites, be prepared to talk about how you manage your workload and adapt to changing circumstances. Share examples of how you've successfully planned and executed tasks under pressure.
✨Communicate Like a Pro
Effective communication is key in this role. Think of instances where you've successfully liaised with team members or stakeholders. Highlight your interpersonal skills and willingness to collaborate, as these are crucial for supporting volunteers and site operators.