Senior Technician Teaching and Research(UK Visa Sponsorship)

Job Description

About the Role

Technical Services at the University of Reading is seeking a Senior Technician to support teaching and research activities within Crop Science at the University’s farm in Sonning.

The farm spans approximately 180 hectares, including over 15 hectares dedicated to plot-scale agronomic trials and protected cropping systems managed by the Crops Research Unit (CRU), part of the School of Agriculture, Policy and Development (SAPD).

This role offers a rare opportunity to work hands-on at the interface of research, teaching, and sustainable agriculture, supporting projects that address global challenges such as food security, climate resilience, and biodiversity conservation, in line with the UN 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda.

What You’ll Be Doing

Working closely with the Technical Manager, you will play a key role in the smooth running of day-to-day operations across the Crops Research Unit. Your responsibilities will include:

• Carrying out mechanised field operations such as cultivations, spraying, treatments, and harvesting
• Maintaining and repairing agricultural machinery and trial equipment in the workshop
• Supporting the planning, establishment, and agronomic management of field trials
• Conducting laboratory analysis of crop, soil, and seed samples
• Maintaining trial plots, infrastructure, and field sites
• Providing practical support to students and academic researchers during teaching and research activities

From time to time, you may also support other technical teams across the University’s farms and crop research facilities. Full training will be provided for specialist techniques and equipment where required.

About You

You’ll be practical, curious, and motivated by working outdoors and supporting applied research. We’re looking for someone who can bring hands-on skills while continuing to grow their technical expertise.

You should have:

• Qualifications equivalent to HNC, NVQ Level 3, AS/A-Level, or similar in Agricultural Science, engineering, or workshop-related disciplines
  (A degree in a related subject with less practical experience will also be considered)
• Basic knowledge of crop production and a strong willingness to learn
• Mechanical aptitude with some workshop experience
• Confidence or interest in tractor driving and general field operations
• Enthusiasm for further training in crop production and pesticide application (e.g. PA1 and PA2)
• Experience or aptitude in handling plant, seed, and soil materials
• Strong attention to detail and accurate record-keeping skills

Professional Development & Technician Community

Technical Services is deeply committed to the development and recognition of technical staff. We are a founding signatory of the Technician Commitment and an Employer Champion, actively supporting career development, training, and progression.

You can learn more about our inclusive approach here:
https://www.reading.ac.uk/technical-services/equity-diversity-and-inclusion-in-technical-services

Visa and Right to Work Information

Due to the complexity of the UK Skilled Worker visa route, applicants who may require sponsorship are advised to check their eligibility independently before applying. Visa discussions will only take place with candidates invited to interview.

Useful UK government guidance includes:

• Skilled Worker visa overview
• Points-based immigration system
• Right to work in the UK
• Health and safety in agriculture
• Equality Act 2010 guidance

Informal Enquiries

For an informal discussion about the role, please contact:

Richard Casebow
Technical Manager – Crops Research Unit

or

Dr Karen Wicks
Associate Director – Technical Services

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

The University of Reading is committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and supportive working environment. We support the Athena SWAN Charter, the Race Equality Charter, and LGBTQ+ equality, and we are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2). Flexible working arrangements, including job-share and part-time options, are welcomed and considered in line with operational needs.