At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct inspections and engage with farmers to support sustainable agriculture.
- Company: Join the Scottish Government's Rural Payments and Inspections Division.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, inclusive environment, and career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in rural communities and contribute to climate goals.
- Qualifications: Valid UK driving licence and experience in the agricultural sector.
- Other info: Dynamic role with outdoor work and a chance to influence positive change.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
An exciting opportunity has arisen for Agricultural Officers to join the Scottish Government Rural Payments and Inspections Division (RPID) in the Ayr area office.
RPID teams manage the implementation of agricultural, environmental and rural policies, process applications for funding and provide high quality customer service.
Agricultural Officers perform a key role in the work of the Division and are often a key point of contact for farmers, crofters and the rural community. They undertake a wide variety of duties, many of an outdoor nature, including visits to farms and crofts to carry out inspections. The team also undertake desk-based processing of claims and applications, and engage directly with customers as the primary point of contact for the rural community in the area.
Due to the nature of this role, a considerable amount of driving is involved therefore a valid driving licence that enables the candidate to drive in the UK is mandatory.
Responsibilities
- Conducting site verification of land use and area to meet regulatory requirements.
- Ensuring the accuracy of claims, including capital items purchased to meet regulatory requirements.
- Inspecting for livestock traceability, to meet regulatory requirements.
- Plant health inspections to meet regulatory requirements.
- Encourage engagement and communicate with land managers about the importance of addressing climate and biodiversity crises and influencing a positive behaviour change to achieve net zero and biodiversity targets along with sustainable food production.
- Engagement with customers to enable them to understand changes to support of Scottish agriculture.
Qualifications
Valid driving licence which enables you to drive in the UK.
Success Profile
Success profiles are specific to each job and they include the mix of skills, experience and behaviours candidates will be assessed on.
Technical/Professional Skills
- Delivery and decision making at speed – Working
You can find out more about the skills required here.
Experience
- Previous practical experience of working within UK agricultural or rural sector and the ability to demonstrate an understanding of the wider farming practices in Scotland.
- Demonstrate a knowledge of the schemes and support that RPID have available to help the farming sector, including those which assist the Scottish Government meet its Net Zero target.
Behaviours
- Communicating and influencing – Level 2
- Working together – Level 2
You can find out more about Success Profiles here: Success profiles: candidate guide – gov.scot
How To Apply
Apply online, providing a CV and Supporting Statement (of no more than 1000 words) which provides evidence of how you meet the experience and behaviours listed in the Success Profile above.
If invited for further assessment, this will consist of an interview and a presentation.
Assessments are scheduled for w/c 10th November 2025 however this may be subject to change.
There will be a reserve list held for this post for a duration of 12 months.
Experience as detailed in the job profile for this post will be the determining factor both at sift and interview where applicants have the same overall application outcome.
About Us
The Scottish Government is the devolved government for Scotland. We have responsibility for a wide range of key policy areas including: education, health, the economy, justice, housing and transport. We offer rewarding careers and employ people across Scotland in a wide range of professions and roles.
Our staff are part of the UK Civil Service, working for Ministers and senior stakeholders to deliver vital public services which improve the lives of the people of Scotland.
We offer a supportive and inclusive working environment along with a wide range of employee benefits. Find out more about what we offer.
As part of the UK Civil Service, we uphold the Civil Service Nationality Rules.
Working Pattern
Our standard hours are 35 hours per week. We offer a range of flexible and hybrid working options depending on the needs of the role. If you have specific questions about the role you are applying for, please contact us.
Equality Statement
We are committed to equality and inclusion and we aim to recruit a diverse workforce that reflects the population of our nation.
Find out more about our commitment to diversity and how we offer and support recruitment adjustments for anyone who needs them.
We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons.
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Agricultural Officer - Ayr employer: THE SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT
Contact Detail:
THE SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Agricultural Officer - Ayr
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the Scottish Government and its values. When you’re in an interview, show us that you understand our mission and how your role as an Agricultural Officer fits into the bigger picture. It’s all about demonstrating your passion for rural policies and community engagement!
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Before your interview, run through common questions with a friend or family member. Focus on how your previous experience aligns with the responsibilities of the role, especially those outdoor inspections and customer interactions.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of networking! Reach out to current or former Agricultural Officers on LinkedIn. They can provide insider tips and might even give you a heads-up on what to expect during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 4
Finally, apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team and making a difference in the agricultural sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Agricultural Officer - Ayr
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Agricultural Officer role. Highlight relevant experience in the agricultural or rural sector, and don’t forget to mention any specific skills that align with the job description.
Craft a Strong Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Use it to provide clear examples of how you meet the experience and behaviours outlined in the Success Profile. Keep it concise and focused, sticking to the 1000-word limit.
Show Your Passion for Agriculture: Let your enthusiasm for agriculture and rural communities come through in your application. Mention any personal experiences or insights that demonstrate your commitment to sustainable practices and supporting farmers.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and the application process there.
How to prepare for a job interview at THE SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of agricultural policies and practices in Scotland. Familiarise yourself with the schemes and support that RPID offers, especially those related to net zero targets. This will show your genuine interest and understanding of the role.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your previous work in the agricultural or rural sector. Highlight any practical experience you have with site inspections, customer engagement, or regulatory compliance. This will help demonstrate that you’re not just a good fit for the role, but that you can hit the ground running.
✨Communicate Effectively
Since this role involves a lot of customer interaction, practice how you communicate complex information clearly and concisely. Think about how you would explain changes in support for Scottish agriculture to farmers and crofters. Good communication skills are key!
✨Be Ready to Drive
As driving is a significant part of the job, ensure you have your valid UK driving licence ready. Be prepared to discuss your driving experience and how you manage travel logistics when visiting farms and crofts. This shows you’re ready for the practical aspects of the role.