Dairy Technician

Job Description

Location: Newport, Shropshire TF10 8NB
Salary: £28,381 – £30,805 per annum (depending on qualifications and experience)
Contract Type: Fixed Term (up to 30 months)
Hours: Full Time
Closing Date: Friday 25 July 2025, 23:59 BST
Reference: LS-1750-2025B

About the Role

Harper Adams University is seeking an enthusiastic and practically minded individual to join a UK Government-funded research project focused on reducing methane emissions in dairy farming.

In this hands-on role, you will work closely with our animal science researcher to maintain, transport, and operate specialised equipment used to measure methane output from dairy cows. Your work will take place both on campus and at partnering farms within a 50-mile radius—no overnight stays required.

This position would suit someone with experience in agriculture, engineering, machinery maintenance, or similar fields. Whether you hold a degree or not, we welcome applications from candidates with a passion for agricultural innovation.

What You’ll Be Doing

Some of your key responsibilities will include:

• Maintaining and repairing dairy cow research equipment, including methane measurement tools, individual feeding equipment, mixer wagons, and load-alls.
• Transporting, setting up, and operating methane analysers on commercial dairy farms (training provided).
• Supporting data collection and sample gathering alongside the research team.
• Assisting in the daily care and feeding of dairy cows in the research units, including occasional weekend work.
• Supporting academic staff in organising and delivering technology transfer events.

About You

We’re looking for someone who can combine technical skills with a flexible, proactive approach. You should have:

• Experience working with farm equipment and dairy cattle.
• A full, clean driving licence (essential).
• Basic computer skills, including familiarity with Microsoft Office applications.
• A keen eye for detail.
• The ability to plan your own workload, work independently, and collaborate effectively with colleagues.

Desirable skills (not essential):

• Experience driving tractors, mixer wagons, trailers, or load-alls (training can be provided).
• Welding or light fabrication experience.

Additional Information

• The role may include occasional weekend work.
• Non-degree and degree holders are encouraged to apply.
• You’ll have the chance to build your professional network through collaboration with a range of industrial partners and research institutes.

Visa Sponsorship and Right to Work

If you do not currently have the right to work in the UK and/or require sponsorship for a Skilled Worker visa, please read the official UK government guidance:

UK Visas and Immigration

This link explains how to check your eligibility and what steps you’ll need to take.

How to Apply

If you have any questions about the role or would like an informal discussion, please contact:
Liam Sinclair – lsinclair@harper-adams.ac.uk

If you require any adjustments to help you complete your application, please email:
vacancies@harper-adams.ac.uk

Ready to make a difference in sustainable agriculture? Apply today and help us drive innovation in dairy farming.