At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage purchasing of consumables and equipment for vital research at Kew.
- Company: Join the iconic Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, a leader in plant science.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and wellness support.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team dedicated to protecting our planet's biodiversity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in plant and fungal research while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Organised, detail-oriented with experience in purchasing or financial record-keeping.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
This is an exciting opportunity to join the Science Operations team at the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, one of the world's most iconic scientific and horticultural institutions. As the Senior Technician (Purchasing), you will play a vital role in keeping Kew's research running smoothly – managing the purchasing of consumables & equipment and ensuring scientists and researchers have what they need to do their work. Based at Kew, this is a varied and hands-on role at the heart of a world-leading plant and fungal science programme.
We are looking for an organised and efficient individual with a background in a relevant technical or scientific role, and a genuine commitment to working within a team. You will have a keen eye for detail and a methodical approach to record-keeping, and the ability to apply your skills practically in a busy research environment. Experience of purchasing, invoicing, or maintaining financial records would be an advantage, as this will be part of the day-to-day duties of the role.
Following a recent restructuring, purchasing across the Research Infrastructure team has been centralised, and this role offers real scope to help shape how the team works going forward. We need someone who can think creatively about problems and build practical solutions – whether that is designing forms to capture ordering information, developing tracking spreadsheets, or finding smarter ways to consolidate expenditure. You will be a confident communicator, able to work closely with laboratory staff, finance and procurement colleagues, and visiting researchers. The ability to manage competing priorities and to pick up new systems quickly are both essential. Experience of supporting less experienced colleagues, and an interest in plant or fungal research, would be a bonus.
Interviews are due to take place w/c 22 June.
About Us
The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (RBG Kew) is a leading plant science institute, UNESCO World Heritage Site, and major visitor attraction. Our mission is to understand and protect plants and fungi for the well-being of people and the future of all life on Earth. We are working to end the unprecedented extinction crisis and to help create a world where nature is protected, valued by all and managed sustainably. We will achieve these goals by drawing on our leading scientific research, unrivalled collections of plants and fungi, global network of partners, inspirational gardens at Kew and Wakehurst, and our 260 years of history.
Join us on our journey as protectors of the world’s plants and fungi. Our fantastic benefits package includes opportunities for continuous learning, a generous annual leave entitlement, flexible working to help you maintain a healthy work-life balance, an Employee Assistance Programme and other wellbeing support such as cycle to work scheme and discounted gym membership. We also offer a competitive pension, an employee discount scheme and free entry into a wide range of national museums and galleries, as well as access to our own beautiful gardens at Kew and Wakehurst.
We are dedicated to equality of opportunity and welcome applications from all sections of the community. We are committed to interview disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for the post. No agencies please.
Senior Technician (Purchasing) in Surrey employer: ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS/KEW GARDENS
The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment at one of the world's leading scientific institutions. With a strong commitment to employee growth, Kew provides continuous learning opportunities, flexible working arrangements, and a comprehensive benefits package that includes generous leave, wellbeing support, and access to stunning gardens. Join us in making a meaningful impact on global plant and fungal conservation while enjoying a collaborative and inclusive workplace culture.
Contact Detail:
ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS/KEW GARDENS Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Technician (Purchasing) in Surrey
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to Kew. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about the role and even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching Kew's recent projects and initiatives. Show us you’re genuinely interested in plant and fungal research, and how your skills can contribute to our mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your problem-solving skills! Think of examples where you've creatively tackled challenges in purchasing or record-keeping. We love hearing about practical solutions you've implemented.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at Kew.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Technician (Purchasing) in Surrey
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience in purchasing and technical roles. We want to see how your skills align with the needs of our Science Operations team at Kew!
Showcase Your Organisational Skills:Since this role requires a keen eye for detail and a methodical approach, be sure to provide examples of how you've successfully managed records or handled purchasing tasks in the past. We love seeing those organisational skills in action!
Communicate Clearly:As a confident communicator, it's important to convey your ideas clearly in your written application. Use straightforward language and structure your thoughts logically so we can easily understand your experience and how you can contribute to our team.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Kew. Don’t miss out!
How to prepare for a job interview at ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS/KEW GARDENS
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of purchasing processes and financial record-keeping. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, and think about how your experience aligns with their mission. This will show that you're not just interested in the role, but also in contributing to their goals.
✨Show Off Your Organisational Skills
Since this role requires a keen eye for detail and a methodical approach, prepare examples from your past work where you've successfully managed competing priorities or streamlined processes. Be ready to discuss how you can apply these skills in a busy research environment.
✨Communicate Confidently
As a Senior Technician, you'll need to collaborate with various teams. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Think of scenarios where you've effectively communicated with colleagues or supported less experienced team members, as this will highlight your teamwork abilities.
✨Be Creative with Solutions
The job description mentions the need for creative problem-solving. Prepare to discuss any innovative solutions you've implemented in previous roles, especially related to purchasing or resource management. This will demonstrate your ability to think outside the box and contribute positively to the team's future.
