Trials Officer

Overview
STRI Group is a leading global design, engineering, research and management consultancy. We specialize in planning, designing, and building sustainable places and spaces for people to enjoy. Our HQ Is home to a world-leading turfgrass research facility, and our expertise spans across sports surfaces, residential, corporate, and public spaces.

The primary purpose of the Trials Officer is to conduct commercial product efficacy and selectivity trials for various companies, along with any other related research. The role involves setting up of scientific experiments, conducting assessments, application of products, data collection and analysis and report writing. This role also involves performing basic diagnostics for turfgrass pests and diseases. It is crucial that the information in reports to STRI clients is accurate and of high quality to maintain the company’s reputation.

Additionally, the Trials Officer provides essential research support to the Group and conducts pesticide and non-pesticide evaluation work within the agreed and documented working practices (STRI SOPs). The role requires the Trials Officer to work independently, using their own initiative and being part of a team.

Key responsibilities and duties

• Design, coordinate, and complete commercial trials and related research for STRI clients.
• Manage all practical aspects of the research work.
• Generate data to support the research aims and objectives of STRI clients.
• Produce detailed trial plans and drawings.
• Maintain accurate records of all pesticides and active substances applied to trials, ensuring compliance with current pesticide regulations.
• Create and update management regimes for each trial site at STRI, ensuring adherence to these plans.
• Assist with trial preparations.
• Ensure all new trial proposals, amendments, and reports are approved by the Research Manager.
• Order regular stocks of laboratory equipment, such as spray suits, gloves, and microscope equipment.
• Purchase products up to a value of £100.
• Check and calibrate equipment as and when needed along with keeping inventory of other items.

Person Specification

• A degree in science, sports or engineering is desirable, but a keen interest or relevant practical experience is equally valued.
• NPTC spraying certificate (PA1, PA6). Training will be provided if necessary.
• Good knowledge of pesticides, weeds, grasses, pests, and diseases for diagnostics (including Latin names, life cycles, disease symptoms, optimum conditions, etc.) – although training would be provided for it.
• Essential computer literacy with working knowledge of word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and PowerPoint.
• Good communication skills.
• Effective time management to organize time and trials efficiently.
• General knowledge of turf management regimes.
• Keen interest in sport such as football, rugby, or golf as example.
• Clean UK driving licence.

You will be required to provide proof of your identity, right to work in the UK and qualifications during the selection process. We will seek references on short-listed candidates and may approach previous employers for information to verify experience or qualifications before interview. An online search will also be carried out as part of due diligence on all short-listed candidates.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Benefits:

• Company events
• Company pension
• Cycle to work scheme
• Discounted or free food
• Employee mentoring programme
• Enhanced maternity leave
• Enhanced paternity leave
• Financial planning services
• Free parking
• Health & wellbeing programme
• Life insurance
• On-site parking
• Sick pay

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Bingley BD16 1AU: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (preferred)

Education:

• Bachelor’s (preferred)

Licence/Certification:

• PA1 Pesticide Certificate (preferred)
• PA6 Spraying Licence (preferred)

Work authorisation:

• United Kingdom (required)

Work Location: In person