At a Glance
- Tasks: Inspect seed potato consignments and collect soil samples to ensure crop health.
- Company: Join SASA, a key player in Scotland's agricultural success.
- Benefits: Earn £129.82 per day with travel expenses covered and full training provided.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on Scotland's seed potato industry while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed; just a passion for agriculture and the environment.
- Other info: Seasonal role from September to May with opportunities for hands-on learning.
The predicted salary is between 1000 - 2000 £ per month.
Scotland is recognised internationally as a world leader in seed potato production, thanks to the exceptionally high health status of crops grown here. Science and Advice for Scottish Agriculture (SASA) plays a vital role in maintaining these standards and is the body responsible for the certification of seed potato crops in Scotland.
An opportunity has arisen within SASA for two temporary Plant Health Inspectors to work in the Grampian (Moray, Banffshire, Aberdeenshire) area. SASA is a division of the Scottish Government’s Agriculture and Rural Delivery Directorate (ARDD) and provides expert scientific advice and services to the Agriculture and Rural Economy (ARE) Directorate and the wider Scottish Government on matters relating to crops and the environment.
Working as part of a team of inspectors, you will support Scotland’s seed potato industry by inspecting seed potato consignments and collecting soil samples from fields intended for seed potato production, specifically for the detection of potato cyst nematode. These seasonal roles generally operate between September and May, with work allocated by local area offices in line with customer demand for tuber inspection and soil sampling. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to Scotland’s agricultural success while gaining hands-on experience in plant health and regulatory inspection.
Full, comprehensive training will be given to successful candidates in the identification of potato tuber diseases, tuber inspections and soil sampling method. Daily rate of £129.82 per day (travel and subsistence expenses will be reimbursed where appropriate).
Plant Health Inspector - Winter employer: Scottish Government
Contact Detail:
Scottish Government Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Plant Health Inspector - Winter
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the agriculture and plant health sectors. Attend local events or join online forums where you can chat with industry experts. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Get hands-on experience! If you can, volunteer or intern in roles related to plant health or agriculture. This not only boosts your CV but also shows potential employers that you're genuinely passionate about the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of potato diseases and inspection methods. We recommend doing some research on SASA and their role in Scotland’s seed potato industry to impress them with your enthusiasm and understanding.
✨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 are proactive and take the initiative to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Plant Health Inspector - Winter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience and skills. We want to see how you can contribute to Scotland’s seed potato industry, so don’t hold back on showcasing your passion for plant health!
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key points stand out. This will help us quickly see why you’re a great fit for the role.
Show Your Enthusiasm: Let your excitement for the position shine through! We love candidates who are genuinely interested in contributing to agricultural success. A bit of personality can go a long way in making your application memorable.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Government
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of plant health, particularly regarding seed potatoes and common diseases like potato cyst nematode. Familiarise yourself with SASA's role in the industry and be ready to discuss how your skills can contribute to maintaining Scotland's high standards.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Since you'll be working as part of a team of inspectors, it's crucial to demonstrate your ability to collaborate effectively. Think of examples from your past experiences where you've worked well in a team, especially in challenging situations, and be prepared to share these during the interview.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about the role and the organisation. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you understand what’s expected. You might ask about the training process or how success is measured for inspectors at SASA.
✨Be Ready for Practical Scenarios
Expect to discuss practical scenarios related to inspecting seed potato consignments and soil sampling. Think through how you would approach these tasks and be ready to explain your thought process. This will showcase your problem-solving skills and readiness for the job.