Senior Technician Teaching and Research(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

About the Opportunity

The University of Reading is looking for an experienced and motivated Senior Technician to support teaching and research activities within Crop Science. This permanent role is based primarily at the University’s Sonning Farm, a 180-hectare research and teaching facility that plays a vital role in advancing sustainable agriculture.

You will become a key member of the Crops Research Unit (CRU), working alongside academics, researchers, and students to address major global challenges such as food security, climate resilience, and biodiversity, in line with the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.

Your Working Environment

• A large-scale university farm with over 15 hectares dedicated to experimental field trials
• Access to modern agricultural machinery, workshops, and laboratories
• Collaboration with researchers in the School of Agriculture, Policy and Development
• A supportive technical services team committed to training, inclusion, and professional growth

Key Responsibilities

Working closely with the Technical Manager, your role will include:

• Carrying out mechanised field operations, including cultivation, spraying, crop treatments, and harvesting
• Maintaining, repairing, and fabricating agricultural and research equipment in the workshop
• Supporting the planning and delivery of agronomic field trials
• Conducting laboratory analysis of crops, soils, and seeds
• Helping maintain the trials site and associated facilities
• Providing hands-on support to students and academic staff during teaching and research activities

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.

Skills, Experience & Qualifications

You should bring:

A qualification equivalent to HNC / NVQ Level 3 / A-Level / AS-Level in Agricultural Science, engineering, or a related field
Or a relevant degree combined with practical experience
A basic understanding of crop production, with enthusiasm to develop further
Mechanical aptitude and experience in a workshop environment
Confidence with tractor driving or strong practical field skills
Willingness to train in crop production certification (e.g. PA1 / PA2)
Experience or aptitude in handling plants, seeds, and soil samples
Strong attention to detail and accurate record-keeping

Visa & Eligibility Information

Applicants who may require visa sponsorship are encouraged to independently check eligibility before applying. Due to the complexity of the Skilled Worker route, visa discussions will only take place with shortlisted candidates.

Interviews

Interviews expected: Week Commencing 2 March 2026

Equality, Inclusion & Development

The University of Reading is proud to be:

• A founding signatory of the Technician Commitment
• A Disability Confident Employer (Level 2)
• A supporter of Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter, and LGBTQ+ inclusion
• Flexible working arrangements, job-share, and part-time options are welcomed where operationally feasible.

Why Join Us?

This is a rare opportunity to combine hands-on agricultural expertise with world-leading research and teaching, helping shape the future of sustainable crop science and global food systems. Apply now and contribute directly to the science that feeds the future.