Harper Adams University are looking for a practically minded enthusiastic individual to assist in a UK Government funded project aimed at reducing methane emissions on dairy farms. The role involves working closely alongside an animal science researcher to manage mechanical or technical problems that may be encountered on the University campus, or offsite at partnering farms. The position would suit an individual with a background in agricultural work, engineering, mechanics or repair work. When on campus you will be responsible for the maintenance and calibration of machinery designed to collect and analyse methane output from dairy cows (training on calibration and use will be provided). The maintenance/repair/improvement of agricultural machinery and equipment, such as trailers, mixer wagons, and cattle crushes may also be required, and previous experience with welding or low-level fabrication would be desirable. Off-campus work involves the safe transport and set up of methane analysers on commercial dairy farms within a 50-mile radius of Harper Adams campus (no overnight stays required). The role may include occasional weekend work. Previous experience of driving tractors/mixer wagons/load-all/trailers is desirable, but not essential as this can be provided for an enthusiastic candidate. Some assistance for the researcher with sample collection and data recording will be required. The project is part of a larger scale consortium of industrial partners and research institutes, providing an opportunity to widen your professional network.
Non-degree and degree holders are encouraged to apply.
Some of the main duties and responsibilities will include:
- Maintain and repair equipment associated with dairy cows, including individual feeding equipment, methane measurement equipment, mixer wagon and load all.
- Support academic staff, post-doctoral researchers, post-graduate students and technicians in transporting, setting up and operating methane monitoring equipment on commercial dairy farms and assist with data & sample collection.
- Assist in the daily husbandry requirements of the dairy cow research units, in particular the feeding of animals, and occasional weekend work.
- Support academic staff and technicians in the delivery of technology transfer events
The successful candidate will have the following;
- Experience of the maintenance and operation of farm equipment and working with dairy cattle
- A full, clean driving license is essential.
- Computer literate with experience of using Microsoft Office suite applications.
- High attention to detail
- Ability to work on own initiative to plan and manage own workload, and also to work as part of a team.
If you have any queries or questions or for an informal discussion, please contact Liam Sinclair via email lsinclair@harper-adams.ac.uk. For further information about the University or to see full job description, please visit our website by clicking the 'Apply' button above.
Application Procedure:
All applications should be completed and submitted using the Harper Adams e-Recruitment programme via the 'Apply' button above to be completed no later than midnight on Friday 25 July 2025
Should you require any adjustments to complete your application for this role then please contact vacancies@harper-adams.ac.uk
If you do not yet have the right to work in the UK and/or are seeking sponsorship for a Skilled Worker visa in the UK, please follow this link https://www.gov.uk/browse/visas-immigration which contains further information about obtaining the right to work in the UK and details about eligibility for sponsorship for a Skilled Worker Visa.
£28,381 to £30,805 per annum : Grade 6 (The point of entry will be dependent upon relevant qualifications and experience)
