Job description
About BigSis
BigSis (http://bigsis.tech), a UK start-up, is pioneering a chemical-free solution to agricultural insect pests. This involves releasing sterile male insects into and around the fields of crops that we have been contracted to protect. BigSis has recently launched its first solution, which helps farmers control spotted wing drosophila (SWD), a highly destructive pest of soft fruit crops, such as strawberries and blackberries.
Location: Farm near Colchester, Essex
Salary: £12 per hour + up to 20% end of contract bonus + holiday + pension
10-15 hours a week over two days (Mon/Thu or Tue/Fri), 7am start, March until October. It could work really well if you need a bit of extra income around another job/semi retirement/other commitments.
You will drive to a specified farm and then walk several kilometres up and down the fields to release insects and swap insect monitoring traps according to instructions provided.
Responsibilities will include:
- Reliably visit a specified farm, starting at 7am, on planned dates, twice per week throughout the growing season (typically March to October, but may vary by farm)
- Releasing sterile male insects at designated release points spread around the farm by walking several kilometres
- Replacement of insect traps and posting these to BigSis trap processing centre
- Recording of key factors in the field such as weather conditions, cropping stage, presence of insect nets, etc
Qualifications and experience
- Since full training is provided, no experience is required, but previous work on a farm would be an advantage
- You must be able to follow processes accurately while observing all safety and hygiene rules
- This job involves a large amount of time working in field conditions, often under polytunnels on a farm. You must be capable of carrying out moderately intense physical work in all weather conditions and be comfortable working with live insects
- You must hold a full UK driving licence and have your own vehicle (car or van)
Job Types: Part-time, Fixed term contract
Contract length: 8 months
Part-time hours: 10-15 per week
Salary: £12.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Company pension
- On-site parking
Schedule:
- Monday to Friday
- No weekends
Supplemental pay types:
- Loyalty bonus
Work Location: One location
Expected start date: 27/02/2023