Featured

Trials Manager – Agricultural Field Research – Chelmsford - Competitive Salary + Bonus + Vehicle Allowance + Benefits

Posted 10 July 2025
Salary Competitive Salary + Bonus + Vehicle Allowance + Benefits
LocationChelmsford
Job type Permanent
Discipline Agricultural & Farm ServicesAgronomy, Fertilisers, Crop Protection & Agrochemicals
ReferenceBF - 52148

Job description

Trials Manager
Trials Manager – Agricultural Field Research – Chelmsford - Competitive Salary + Bonus + Vehicle Allowance + Benefits

The Job:
A leading UK agricultural R&D organisation is seeking an experienced Trials Manager to run its flagship field-research programme at a dedicated research farm in the East of England. Working at the cutting edge of crop science, you’ll design, deliver and interpret trials that drive sustainable yield, soil health and crop-protection advances across multiple arable systems.

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

The Candidate:
- Degree/HND in Agriculture, Crop Science or a related discipline or demonstrable equivalent field-research experience
- Essential certificates: PA1, PA6, PA11; forklift, telehandler and ATV licences
- Desirable: BASIS and FACTS qualifications (or willingness to obtain)
- Proven track record of organising multi-site trials to tight seasonal windows, with meticulous attention to detail
- Strong statistical/data-analysis literacy and familiarity with ARM (or similar) trial-management software
- Confident communicator able to present complex results to technical and non-technical audiences
- Flexible, proactive and able to motivate a small team through peak-season pressures

The Package:
- Direct influence on the next generation of sustainable crops 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, etc.)
- Competitive salary, bonus potential, vehicle allowance and comprehensive benefits package

Please email your CV to Bradley Frost, Senior Recruitment Delivery Consultant, BFrost@agrirs.co.uk.

Keep up-to-date with the latest opportunities from Agricultural Recruitment Specialists® by registering on our website: www.agriRS.com and following us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. As a leading and esteemed recruitment agency specialising in the agriculture, food, horticulture, equestrian, animal health and rural sectors, Agricultural Recruitment Specialists® prioritise roles across sales, management, marketing, operations and technical and engineering fields, including international and senior-level positions within our specialised sectors. Our suite of services encompasses bespoke recruitment solutions, executive search, candidate profiling, knowledge sharing, targeted advertising and comprehensive recruitment support. To discover how we can assist in advancing your career or meeting your recruitment needs, please visit www.agriRS.com or contact our recruitment team on 01905 345 155 or on our international number: 0044 1905 345 155. We are renowned for connecting the finest talent throughout the world with the best brands and organisations.