Menu

Technical Support Officer

Job details
Posting date: 12 September 2025
Salary: £25,620 to £29,254 per year
Hours: Full time
Closing date: 12 October 2025
Location: EH9 3JG
Remote working: On-site only
Company: SRUC
Job type: Contract
Job reference: REQ0295-62309

Apply for this job

Summary

About the team:

The vision of the Plant and Soil Systems Research Group is to be recognised nationally and internationally for the quality of our science and knowledge exchange with stakeholders, to benefit crop production and health, the environment, and the rural economy.

Our research is intended to underpin the development of resilient and sustainable systems of crop production that are economically viable, but also environmentally and socially acceptable.

About the opportunity:

We are seeking a proactive and detail-oriented Technical Support Officer to join our research team. This role is vital to the successful delivery of scientific trials and sample processing, providing hands-on support across both laboratory and field-based activities. Working within molecular and soil laboratories, and supporting crop monitoring in the field, you will contribute to high-quality research outcomes through accurate sample handling, data collection, and technical assistance.

In support of field trials, you will assist with their setup, monitoring, and maintenance. You will carry out crop monitoring and collect data as required, while supporting researchers during field visits and ensuring compliance with safety protocols.

Within the laboratory, you will perform both routine and specialist tasks in molecular and soil environments. This includes preparing reagents, maintaining equipment, and ensuring the laboratory remains clean and safe. You will follow standard operating procedures for sample analysis and data recording to maintain consistency and accuracy.

In terms of sample processing, you will be responsible for receiving, labelling, and preparing plant samples for analysis. You will maintain accurate records of sample handling and results and ensure that processed samples are delivered promptly to the relevant research teams.

Minimum qualifications:

The ideal candidate should hold a qualification in Plant Biology or a related discipline, equivalent to HND level or higher (SCQF Level 8).

For the full person specification, please download and fully read the Job Particulars document before you apply for the role.

Eligibility for Sponsorship:

This role is not eligible for sponsorship under the Skilled Worker route. If you are a migrant worker, you will need to ensure you have an appropriate visa to evidence the necessary right to work in the UK.

Admin ref: ACF/PSS/009/25

Why work for SRUC?

  • Generous annual leave
  • Enhanced pension contributions (5% employee and 10% employer)
  • Cycle to work scheme
  • Discounted RAC Membership
  • Generous family leave
  • Hybrid working solutions (in some areas)
  • Tailored investment in and individuals' learning and development

    How to Apply:

    Please complete an online application form by pressing “apply”.

    You must fully read the Job Particulars document before applying.

    SRUC Leading the way in Agricultural and Rural Research, Education & Consultancy.

    SRUC is committed to valuing Diversity, advancing Equality and respecting Human Rights throughout the organisation and encouraging applications from disabled people using the “Disability Confident Employer” symbol. SRUC is a member of the Athena SWAN charter.

    SRUC. A Charitable company limited by guarantee, SC003712. Registered in Scotland No SC103046

Proud member of the Disability Confident employer scheme

Disability Confident
A Disability Confident employer will generally offer an interview to any applicant that declares they have a disability and meets the minimum criteria for the job as defined by the employer. It is important to note that in certain recruitment situations such as high-volume, seasonal and high-peak times, the employer may wish to limit the overall numbers of interviews offered to both disabled people and non-disabled people. For more details please go to Disability Confident.

Apply for this job