Plant Health Inspector - Winter

Scotland is recognised internationally as a world leader in seed potato production, thanks to the exceptionally high health status of crops grown here. Science and Advice for Scottish Agriculture (SASA) plays a vital role in maintaining these standards and is the body responsible for the certification of seed potato crops in Scotland.

An opportunity has arisen within SASA, for twotemporary Plant Health Inspectors to work in the Grampian (Moray, Banffshire, Aberdeenshire) area. SASA is a division of the Scottish Government’s Agriculture and Rural Delivery Directorate (ARDD) and provides expert scientific advice and services to the Agriculture and Rural Economy (ARE) Directorate and the wider Scottish Government on matters relating to crops and the environment.

Working as part of a team of inspectors, you will support Scotland’s seed potato industry by inspecting seed potato consignments and collecting soil samples from fields intended for seed potato production, specifically for the detection of potato cyst nematode. These seasonal roles generally operate between September and May, with work allocated by local area offices in line with customer demand for tuber inspection and soil sampling.

This is a unique opportunity to contribute to Scotland’s agricultural success while gaining hands-on experience in plant health and regulatory inspection.

Full, comprehensive training will be given to successful candidates in the identification of potato tuber diseases, tuber inspections and soil sampling method.

Daily rate of £129.82 per day (travel and subsistence expenses will be reimbursed where appropriate).