Job Overview
We are looking for a scientifically minded Agronomist/Project Manager to lead and coordinate food-based plant related projects with a strong focus on food science and process optimisation. This role involves managing scientific principles, agricultural or controlled environment projects (e.g., greenhouses, hydroponics), ensuring sustainable, efficient, safe, high quality, and compliant plant growth operations.
Key Responsibilities:
- Plan, execute, and oversee projects related to the cultivation of food-based plants, including infrastructure, crop trials, and process optimisation.
- Oversee trials, sensory evaluations, shelf-life studies, and nutritional analysis.
- Apply scientific principles to troubleshoot production issues and optimise product stability, texture, and flavour.
- Monitor plant growth operations to ensure adherence to quality, safety, and sustainability standards.
- Lead continuous improvement initiatives in plant production systems (e.g., irrigation, lighting, nutrient delivery).
- Ensure compliance with agricultural regulations, organic certifications, and food safety standards. (e.g., HACCP, BRCGS) and regulatory requirements.
- Identify risks and develop mitigation strategies for crop failure, pest management, and environmental control.
- Implement and track KPIs related to yield, resource efficiency, and operational performance.
- Maintain documentation for technical specifications, process parameters, and validation protocols.
- Prepare and present project updates to senior leadership and stakeholders.
- Develop and manage project timelines, budgets, and resource allocation.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Chemical Engineering, or related field.
- 3–5 years of experience in food production, agriculture, horticulture, plant science, environmental science, controlled environment farming or technical project management.
- Strong understanding of plant biology, crop production systems, food chemistry and microbiology.
- Familiarity with analytical tools and lab equipment used in food testing.
- Excellent project management and communication skills.
Preferred Skills:
- Experience with hydroponics and environmental control systems (e.g., HVAC, lighting, irrigation automation).
- Ability to interpret scientific data and translate it into actionable production strategies.
- Proficiency in digital tools for project tracking and data analysis.
Pay: £35,000.00-£60,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Free parking
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
