At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide expert agronomy advice to progressive arable and potato growers across Scotland.
- Company: Join Scotland's leading independent agronomy service and largest arable research business.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, enhanced pension, private medical, life assurance, and vehicle.
- Other info: Opportunity for full-time or part-time roles with a focus on collaboration and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in sustainable farming while growing your career in a supportive team.
- Qualifications: Experience in arable management, BASIS and FACTS qualified, with excellent communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 45000 £ per year.
A compelling opportunity to join Scotland's leading independent agronomy service and largest arable research business in the north of the UK. Your role will be to provide market-leading, unbiased advisory services to an established portfolio of some of the country's most progressive arable and potato growers. At this exciting time for independent agronomy, you will also help drive growth in the cooperative membership and its services, creating further value for members.
Scottish Agronomy is a farmer-owned cooperative, established in 1985, providing independent agronomy services to potato and combinable crop growers across Scotland. With over 30,000 trials plots - the largest programme of its kind in the north of the UK - and no ties to product sales, we offer high quality, trusted advice to our members. Our core aim is to support profitable, sustainable farm performance and create value for members.
We are seeking an experienced agronomist to join our small, established team to deliver practical advice on all aspects of agronomy, including variety selection, crop and soil management, Integrated Crop Management, environmental stewardship, research and innovation. Scottish Agronomy provides agronomy to both individuals and groups, as well as collaborating on a range of innovation projects across the sector with some of the UK's leading research centres. The role may also include helping the business to develop new opportunities and expand the membership, but there will be no requirement to sell products and meet sales targets. This is a rare and exciting opportunity with competitive benefits and long-term career fulfilment for a proactive individual with an appetite to support farming businesses to thrive through independent agronomy and to continue to build the success of the cooperative. Full-time (a part-time role may be considered for the right candidate).
- Team player – you will join our team of agronomists who work together to share knowledge and explore opportunities to provide the best service for our members and want to contribute to the long‑term success of the cooperative.
- Analytical mind – we use the data from our 30,000 trials plots to provide independent advice to our members. You will need to be able to interpret this data with colleagues to give relevant, high‑quality advice on farm and for written monthly bulletins.
- Natural relationship builder – positive relationships with our members, trials partners and the wider industry are fundamental to the cooperative. Excellent communication skills are essential. You should be a capable, confident and courteous communicator with a positive attitude and willingness to network and to develop new business opportunities.
- Inquisitive - motivated to learn from the trials and research projects and to contribute knowledge to the cooperative, conferences and industry events.
- Can do and commitment – motivated, proactive and a positive attitude to enhancing the cooperative and the team.
- Road travel – the role involves regularly going out on farm and to events across Scotland. A full UK driving license is essential.
- Experience - a strong track record and aptitude for arable management in Scotland or the wider UK. BASIS and FACTS qualified, and ideally FBAASS accredited.
Salary: Competitive, dependent on experience. Benefits: Enhanced pension + private medical + life assurance + vehicle.
Agronomist for Scotland's leading independent agronomy service employer: Scottish Agronomy
Scottish Agronomy is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to work within Scotland's leading independent agronomy service. With a strong focus on employee growth and collaboration, our cooperative culture fosters a supportive environment where agronomists can thrive while providing unbiased, high-quality advice to progressive growers. Enjoy competitive benefits, including enhanced pension and private medical, as you contribute to sustainable farming practices across Scotland.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Agronomist for Scotland's leading independent agronomy service
✨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 Scottish Agronomy 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 Agronomist for Scotland's leading independent agronomy service
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 Scottish Agronomy does. This can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Agronomy
✨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 Scottish Agronomy 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 Scottish Agronomy.
✨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 Scottish Agronomy.
