Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct fieldwork and support research in sustainable agriculture and crop science.
- Company: Join a leading university committed to diversity and sustainability.
- Benefits: Full-time role with training opportunities and a focus on career development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on global food security and climate change solutions.
- Qualifications: HNC or A-Level in Agricultural Science; mechanical skills and enthusiasm for learning required.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with flexible working arrangements available.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Full Time, Permanent Contract
The closing date for applications is 23.59 on 8th February 2026.
Technical Services is seeking to appoint a Senior Technician to join our team of technical support staff based at the university farm at Sonning. The farm encompasses 180 hectares, with over 15 hectares designated for plot-scale agronomic trials and protected cropping systems under the remit of the Crops Research Unit (CRU) that sits within the School of Agriculture, Policy and Development (SAPD). The post-holder will maintain daily interactions with researchers addressing 21st century issues aligned to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, including food security, climate change adaptation and biodiversity conservation.
Responsibilities:
- To carry out mechanised field work, including cultivations, treatments, application of plant protection products and harvesting.
- To take responsibility for workshop activities, including maintenance, repair and construction of agricultural and trials machinery.
- To participate in the planning, management and crop agronomy of field trials.
- To carry out laboratory analysis of crop samples.
- To participate in the maintenance of the trials site.
- To support students and academics in their research.
You may occasionally be required to support other technical divisions operating across our farms and Crops Research facilities on the main University campus. Training will be provided in specialist techniques and use of equipment, where required.
We in Technical Services are committed to the development of our staff and we actively strive to diversify our team. We are a founding signatory of the Technician Commitment and an Employer Champion. We are dedicated to providing all applicants equality of opportunity.
Qualifications:
- Equivalent to achievement of HNC, AS/A-Level, NVQ3 in Agricultural Science or mechanical workshop related subjects; a degree in a similar subject with more limited practical experience.
- Basic knowledge of crop production and a willingness to learn more.
- A mechanical aptitude and basic workshop experience.
- Knowledge and aptitude for tractor driving and/or good general practical ability.
- A genuine enthusiasm for training in crop production (e.g., PA1 and PA2).
- Experience/aptitude for processing plants, seeds and soils.
- Attention to detail and precise record keeping.
Interview: W/C 2nd March 2026
The University is committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce, supports the gender equality Athena SWAN Charter and the Race Equality Charter, and champions LGBT+ equality. We are a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2). Applications for job-share, part-time and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs.
Senior Technician Teaching and Research (Crops Science) in Reading employer: University of Reading
Contact Detail:
University of Reading Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Technician Teaching and Research (Crops Science) in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the team! Before your interview, do a bit of research on the Technical Services team and the Crops Research Unit. Understanding their projects and values will help you connect during the interview and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their mission.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your hands-on skills! Since this role is all about practical work, be ready to discuss your previous experiences with machinery and fieldwork. Bring examples of how you've tackled challenges in the past, and don’t shy away from sharing your enthusiasm for learning new techniques.
✨Tip Number 3
Ask questions! Interviews are a two-way street, so prepare some thoughtful questions about the role and the team. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if this is the right fit for you. Plus, it gives you a chance to learn more about their commitment to sustainability.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We encourage you to submit your application directly on our site. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, and you’ll find all the details you need to make your application stand out.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Technician Teaching and Research (Crops Science) in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Technician role. Highlight your relevant experience in agricultural science and any mechanical workshop skills you have. We want to see how your background aligns with the responsibilities listed in the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your enthusiasm for sustainable agriculture and how your skills can contribute to our team. Don’t forget to mention any specific experiences that relate to crop production or field trials.
Show Off Your Attention to Detail: Since the role requires precise record keeping, make sure to showcase your attention to detail in your application. Whether it’s through examples of past work or how you approach tasks, we want to know you can keep things organised and accurate.
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 without any hiccups. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our inclusive approach there!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Reading
✨Know Your Crops
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of crop production and the latest trends in sustainable agriculture. Familiarise yourself with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, as this will show your commitment to addressing food security and climate change.
✨Hands-On Experience Matters
Be prepared to discuss your practical experience with agricultural machinery and fieldwork. Highlight any specific projects or tasks you've undertaken that relate to mechanised field work, maintenance, or crop trials. Real-life examples will make your skills stand out.
✨Show Enthusiasm for Learning
Express your eagerness to learn and develop new skills, especially in areas like crop production techniques and laboratory analysis. Mention any relevant training you've completed or are interested in, such as PA1 and PA2 certifications.
✨Attention to Detail is Key
Demonstrate your attention to detail by discussing how you keep precise records and manage data related to crop trials. This is crucial in research settings, so be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully maintained accuracy in your previous roles.
