Field Crop Botanical Research Technician (Part-Time)

Newcastle University; Newcastle upon Tyne; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 32,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous holiday allowance

Holiday buy/sell option

Pension schemes

Health and wellbeing initiatives

Job summary

Newcastle University is seeking a Botanical Research Technician (Field crops) to support technical and academic staff across the University Farm sites at Cockle Park and Nafferton. You will help manage field plots, conduct crop assessments, and maintain equipment with a strong emphasis on safety and teamwork.

The role is part-time (0.6 FTE), fixed-term until 30 September 2028, offering progression and a range of benefits for a motivated candidate with field research experience.

Qualifications

• Experience in a field research role.
• Good understanding of Health and Safety procedures.
• Excellent team working and communication skills.
• HNC/HND in a relevant subject or equivalent experience.
• Full UK driving licence.
• PA1 & PA6 Safe Use of Pesticides and Handheld Applicator.
• Ability to tow trailers (Lantra qualification or similar).

Responsibilities

• Day-to-day operation of specified facilities or equipment; fault diagnosis, testing, repair and calibration.
• Support in preparation and maintenance of field plots from planting to harvest.
• Disposal of hazardous materials per safety procedures and risk assessments.
• Supervise and train postgraduate and undergraduate students and other staff using facilities.
• Identify consumables/equipment and initiate ordering; maintain financial records.
• Support multiple technical programmes within Farm facilities as needed.
• Prepare and apply fertilizers, herbicides and insecticides and calibrate equipment.
• Carry out other duties within the scope of the role.

Skills

Work experience in technical/research

Health & safety

Teamwork

Botanical knowledge

Problem solving

Organising

Multi-tasking

Communication

Education

HNC/HND in relevant subject

Full UK driving licence

PA1 & PA6 Safe Use of Pesticides

Trailer towing ability

Job description

Newcastle University is seeking a Botanical Research Technician (Field crops) to support technical and academic staff across the University Farm sites at Cockle Park and Nafferton. You will help manage field plots, conduct crop assessments, and maintain equipment with a strong emphasis on safety and teamwork.

The role is part-time (0.6 FTE), fixed-term until 30 September 2028, offering progression and a range of benefits for a motivated candidate with field research experience.