Industrial Grade 2

Overview

Job description - Farm Staff - IND 2

Location: AFBI Crossnacreevy Research Farm, Belfast

Hours: Full-Time

Pay Rate: £ per hour

AFBI is seeking a motivated and practical Agricultural Research Farm Assistant to support research activities at the Crossnacreevy Research Farm. The farm specialises in crop trials involving wheat, barley, oats, and grass varieties, contributing to important agricultural research and innovation. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals with experience operating farm machinery who are keen to develop their skills within a research-focused agricultural environment. Full training will be provided on site.

Responsibilities

• Support the establishment, maintenance, and management of crop trials.


• Operate a range of agricultural machinery, including tractors, mowers, harvesters, and associated equipment.


• Assist with cultivation and crop management activities as follows: Ploughing; Spraying; Fertiliser application; Combining; Mowing and grounds maintenance.


• Carry out routine farm operations in line with research protocols and health and safety requirements.


• Assist with recording trial information and maintaining accurate operational records.


• Work collaboratively with farm and research staff to ensure successful delivery of research programmes.

Duties allocated will depend on previous experience, with training provided to support development across a range of machinery and farming activities.

Essential Criteria

• Demonstrable experience handling and operating farm machinery.


• Ability to work safely and effectively in an agricultural environment.


• Willingness to undertake training and develop new practical skills.


• Good attention to detail and ability to follow instructions accurately.

Applicants should clearly outline their experience and specify the types of machinery they have operated within their application.

Desirable Criteria

• Experience operating agricultural sprayers.


• PA1 and PA2A spraying certificates.


• Experience working within a farming or agricultural environment.


• Knowledge of crop production, including grassland management.


• Ability to adapt to changing priorities and seasonal workloads.


• Positive attitude and willingness to learn new techniques and processes.