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DSV - Machinery Technician and Trials Assistant (Plant Breeding) - Oxfordshire

Posted 05 March 2018
Salary Salary £19k-25k depending on experience, plus bonus, pension, private medical, life cover
Location
Job type Permanent
Reference12459
Contact NameRebekah Shields

Job description

Deutsche Saatveredelung AG (DSV) is a well-known and successful plant breeding company in Europe focused on oilseed rape, cereals, forage plants, amenity grasses and intercrop species. The main focus is in extensive research and breeding activities to develop new varieties which meet market demands.  Breeding is done at four breeding stations in Europe and several other testing locations.  For our breeding station at Wardington (near Banbury), as part of DSV United Kingdom Ltd, we have the following vacancy.

JOB VACANCY - Machinery Technician and Trials Assistant (Plant Breeding)

We are seeking a highly organised, motivated and passionate technical operative to join the Plant Breeding team at Wardington. Your work will involve the management of a wide range of machinery, sowing, growing and harvesting of crops, seed preparation and other general assistance at the Breeding Station. Travel within the UK and abroad may be required. The ideal candidate will be hard-working, enthusiastic and capable of undertaking routine but varied tasks, both alone and as part of a team.

The role is made up of the following tasks:

  • Carry out or arrange with supplier the maintenance and repair of machinery according to specific instructions for each machine
  • Manage a diary system and maintain records to ensure that all machinery is within service and maintenance intervals
  • Modify and adapt machinery and plant when necessary and within personal competencies
  • Liaise with engineers and other outside organisations to carry out machinery work where necessary
  • Prepare seedbeds with tractor mounted equipment
  • Operate tractor mounted seed drills
  • Operate combine harvesters, fertiliser spreaders and chemical sprayers
  • Collect plant material and process samples
  • Make agronomic assessments in trials
  • Transport seed and samples to locations within UK and EU
  • Maintain various records as required relating to the work above, and concerning daily work activity

Requirements:

  • High attention to detail and accuracy
  • Strong organisational skills with ability to multitask, prioritise, and meet deadlines
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Word & Excel
  • Good practical skills
  • Good communication skills, both verbal and written
  • Ability to work effectively on one’s own and as part of a team
  • Ability to work extended hours during peak periods of the season
  • Full UK driving licence

Our offer:

  • Varied, challenging work in an international environment
  • A successful and motivating company culture with a friendly atmosphere
  • A potential long-term career
  • Salary £19k-25k depending on experience, plus bonus, pension, private medical, life cover
  • Mobile phone and IT facilities to fulfil your duty are standard