Senior Technician Teaching and Research(UK Visa Sponsorship)
Job Description
About the Opportunity
The University of Reading is seeking a Senior Technician (Teaching and Research – Crop Science) to join its Technical Services team at the University Farm in Sonning. This role offers a rare opportunity to work at the intersection of hands-on agricultural practice, cutting-edge research, and student learning.
You will be based within the Crops Research Unit (CRU), part of the School of Agriculture, Policy and Development. The farm spans 180 hectares, including specialist facilities for plot-scale agronomic trials and protected cropping systems. The work carried out here directly contributes to global challenges such as food security, climate resilience, and biodiversity protection, aligned with the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda.
Your Role in the Team
Working closely with the Technical Manager, you will support the day-to-day delivery of research and teaching activities across the Crops Research Unit. Your role will be practical, varied, and central to the success of field-based research projects.
Key responsibilities include:
Operating agricultural machinery to carry out cultivations, treatments, harvesting, and crop management tasks
- Applying plant protection products in line with legislation and best practice
- Maintaining, repairing, and constructing agricultural and experimental machinery within the workshop
- Supporting the design, planning, and agronomic management of field trials
- Preparing and analysing crop samples in laboratory settings
- Maintaining trial plots, facilities, and equipment across the research site
- Providing hands-on support to researchers, academics, and students
You may occasionally assist other technical teams across University farms or crop research facilities. Full training will be provided where specialist skills or equipment are required.
About You
This role would suit someone who enjoys practical work, problem-solving, and contributing to meaningful research outcomes.
You will bring:
- A qualification equivalent to HNC, NVQ Level 3, AS/A-Level, or similar in agricultural science, mechanics, or a related field
(or a degree with limited practical experience) - A basic understanding of crop production and a strong desire to develop further
- Mechanical aptitude with experience or confidence working in a workshop environment
- Practical skills in tractor driving or general farm operations
- Interest in gaining further certifications (e.g. PA1 / PA2)
- Experience or aptitude in handling crops, seeds, and soils
- A methodical approach with excellent attention to detail and record-keeping
- Above all, you will have enthusiasm for sustainable agriculture and supporting research that makes a real-world impact.
Commitment to Development and Inclusion
Technical Services at the University of Reading is proud to be a founding signatory of the Technician Commitment and an Employer Champion. We actively support professional development and are committed to building a diverse and inclusive technical workforce.
Skilled Worker visa eligibility
https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa
Visa Information
Due to the complexity of the Skilled Worker visa route, applicants who require sponsorship are advised to review Home Office eligibility criteria independently prior to applying. Visa options will only be discussed with candidates invited to interview.
Why Join the University of Reading?
You will be part of a forward-thinking institution recognised for excellence in agriculture, environmental science, and sustainability research. The University champions flexible working where possible and supports staff wellbeing, professional growth, and inclusion.
We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and proudly support the Athena SWAN Charter, Race Equality Charter, LGBTQ+ inclusion, and are a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2).
Informal Enquiries
For an informal discussion about the role, please contact:
Richard Casebow
Technical Manager, Crops Research Unit
