Main Purpose of Job
We are seeking an enthusiastic, self motivated individual to join our Dundee Farm team at The James Hutton Institute, engaged in a wide range of field trials and large scale research platforms alongside commercial farm activity.
As Field Trials Technician – Potatoes you will assist potato field operations for the farm team in delivery of field trials for research sponsors in co-ordination with JHL and science staff.
Working under supervision of Field Trials Officer, to deliver potato breeding, pest & disease and nutrition projects at Balruddery farm, Mylnefield farm & Off-site.
Assist Field Trials Officers with cultivations, planting logistics and harvest of trial materials in potato field plots, commercial scale Centre for Sustainable Cropping (CSC) platform and Potatoes in Practice event site.
Responsibility for maintenance and upkeep of tractor and machinery required to fulfil the role.
Co-ordinate with Field Manager & Agronomist to deliver trials requirements as specified in Field Experiments Forms and Job Requests and assist with wider team goals within the farm team for fruit, cereals and commercial farm operations where required.
Main Duties of Postholder
* To assist field operations for all potato trial plots including ground preparation, planting, crop maintenance (plant protection & fertiliser application), irrigation, harvest and logistics for transport of harvested crops to store.
* Assist Field Trials Officer event site preparation for Potatoes in Practice event and exhibitor/attendee logistics in accordance with Field Manager & Comms team and application of treatments by request for potato demonstration plots, including record keeping and reporting requirements
* Responsibility for upkeep and maintenance of the machinery used for area of work, including pre-start checks, lubrication, servicing and defect reporting in co-ordination with farm mechanic.
* Assist in estate management aspects and apply good practice environmental principles in accordance with LEAF principles to include assisting with organic amendments e.g. slurry & compost, hedge/boundary maintenance and road repairs.
* Help in other areas of work as required by farm team during peak work periods – carting grain, collecting bales, fruit planting, cultivations, polytunnel construction & skinning.
* To understand and comply with health and safety regulations, the James Hutton Institute Health & Safety policy and specialist safety procedures appropriate to farm, field, and glasshouses work.
Person Specification
Education/Experience/Skills
Essential
* HNC or equivalent experience
* Good communication skills
* Good record keeping and time management skills
* Tractor operating experience
Desirable
* HND
* Experience in potato/vegetable production
* Forklift, Telehandler and Pesticide Application qualifications – PA1, 2 + 4
* Experience in field trials delivery