* Locations: Galashiels, United Kingdom (Hybrid)
* Working Pattern: Full Time
* Number of Openings: 1
* Apply Before: 05/11/2026, 10:59 PM
This opportunity is only open to applicants who are currently 'Priority Movers'. Applications from individuals not currently on the Priority Mover list will be rejected and not considered.
Job Description
This opportunity is to become one of 8 Area Office Principal Agricultural Officers who lead local RPID teams of professional agricultural, customer service and administrative staff based in a network of offices located around rural Scotland. These teams work in the field, on third party premises and in local offices to deliver agricultural, environmental and rural policies; regulatory activity including inspections relating to land, plant and animal health and process applications for funding while provided high quality customer service.
The Gala team is made up of this C1 post, 2 x B3, 7 x B2, 22 x B1, 3 x A4 & 4 x A3
Within the Agricultural and Rural Economy Directorate (ARE), RPID are accountable for the strategic process that regulates and oversees the payment of Agricultural grants and subsidies and related inspection regimes totalling £700m/annum. RPID are also responsible for regulatory activity, including inspections relating to land, plant and animal health and providing expert technical advice. RPID are continuing to implement the Agricultural Reform Programme.
Key Responsibilities
Leading staff on a wide range of casework ensuring payment and inspection targets are met as set out in the Business Plan, Annual Business Cycle and emerging through the Agricultural Reform Programme.
* Liaising with peers, other ARE colleagues and partner organisations to deliver scheme and service outcomes in safeguarding plant and animal health, food production and delivery of money into the rural economy.
* You will represent RPID at local meetings which may involve speaking to stakeholders/farmer/crofter groups. This includes in the evening or at weekends.
* In this post you will be expected to participate in the management and delivery of plant health inspections relating to the multi-million pound potato industry within the Scottish economy.
* Manage a budget and plan resources to deliver services within budget and resource constraints, following process and legal requirements, highlighting improvement opportunities and delivery risks through appropriate governance.
* Promote and support staff; wellbeing, health and safety including working offices and in remote areas, diversity and inclusion and development.
Requirements
Due to the nature of this role, driving is involved in places where there is no viable public transport option, therefore a valid driving licence that enables the candidate to drive in the UK is mandatory.
Understanding and practical experience of working in Scottish Agricultural and Rural Sector.
Working Pattern
This is a permanent level transfer position.
This is a hybrid role with specific weekly attendance at the RPID Gala Office in line with SG hybrid policies.
How to Apply
Applications for this position will only be accepted from substantive C1 grade employees.
Please submit a statement outlining your suitability for the role, relevant skills and experience, and what you would bring to the team (maximum 500 words).
Vacancies close at 23:59pm on Monday 11 May 2026.
Selection Process
All applicants will be invited to an informal discussion. There will be no formal testing or assessment.
Discussions are expected to be scheduled for w/c tbc.
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