Trials Manager - Agricultural Field Research

ZipRecruiter; Chelmsford; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK agricultural R&D organization seeks a Trials Manager for overseeing their field-research program. The role involves designing and interpreting trials to enhance sustainable yield and crop protection, requiring strong leadership and analytical skills. The successful candidate will manage trial sites, engage with diverse stakeholders, and implement innovative technologies within a collaborative and supportive culture.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Bonus potential

Vehicle allowance

Clear progression pathways

Investment in advanced ag-tech

Qualifications

• Experience in organizing multi-site trials within seasonal timelines.
• Strong statistical and data analysis skills; familiarity with trial management software.
• Effective communicator capable of presenting complex results.

Responsibilities

• Plan, design, and execute field trials with technical collaboration.
• Lead high-profile projects and coordinate event demonstrations.
• Line-manage the Trials Team, ensuring trial quality and safety compliance.

Skills

Statistical analysis

Data collection

Effective communication

Leadership

Problem-solving

Education

Degree or HND in Agriculture, Crop Science, or related field

Tools

ARM or similar trial management software

Drones

Robotics

Job description

Job DescriptionTrials Manager
Trials Manager – Agricultural Field Research – Chelmsford - £50,000

The Job:

A leading UK agricultural R&D organisation is seeking an experienced Trials Manager to oversee its flagship field-research programme at a dedicated research farm in the East of England. You will design, deliver, and interpret trials to advance sustainable yield, soil health, and crop protection across various arable systems.

Key responsibilities:

• Plan, design, and execute field, glasshouse, and small-plot trials in collaboration with internal Technical Managers, ensuring ORETO compliance and refining data-collection protocols.
• Manage trial sites with growers, agronomists, and contractors, using ARM and statistical software for robust data collection.
• Lead high-profile projects and open-day events: coordinate plot layouts, demonstrations, and present findings to stakeholders.
• Maintain and calibrate equipment, adhering to all ORETO requirements (sprayers, drills, UAVs, sensors, weather stations, etc.).
• Implement new technologies (drones, robotics, digital scouting) into R&D workflows with the Technology Lead.
• Line-manage the Trials Team: recruitment, training, performance reviews, and supervision for consistent trial quality.
• Champion health, safety, and SOP compliance, maintaining records and fostering a safety culture across sites.

The Candidate:

• Degree or HND in Agriculture, Crop Science, or related field, or demonstrable equivalent experience.
• Essential certificates: PA1, PA6, PA11; forklift, telehandler, and ATV licenses.
• Desirable: BASIS and FACTS qualifications (or willingness to obtain).
• Experience in organizing multi-site trials within seasonal timelines, with attention to detail.
• Strong statistical and data analysis skills; familiarity with ARM or similar trial management software.
• Effective communicator capable of presenting complex results to diverse audiences.
• Flexible, proactive, and motivated to lead a small team during peak seasons.

The Package:

• Impact on sustainable crop and farming practices.
• Modern research facilities and investment in advanced ag-tech.
• Supportive, collaborative culture with clear progression and CPD pathways (BASIS, FACTS, leadership development).
• Competitive salary, bonus potential, vehicle allowance, and benefits.

If interested, please email your CV to Bradley Frost, Senior Recruitment Delivery Consultant, at [e-mail].

Stay updated with opportunities by registering on our website: www.agriRS.com and following us on social media. We specialise in roles across agriculture, food, horticulture, and related sectors, offering recruitment solutions including executive search, candidate profiling, and more. Contact us at 01905 345 155 or [phone] for assistance.