Field Assistant – Research Station

UMS

From humble beginnings in 1995, UMS has grown to become one of Australia’s largest and most progressive proprietary seed companies. Founded by the Sutherland family, the business started with a passion for providing quality pasture solutions that could support the productivity of Australian farms. That founding vision, to improve profitability and resilience for growers, remains at the heart of the company today.

We require an energetic person with a 'can-do' attitude to join our team in the full-time position of Field Assistant to be located at our UMS Research Station in Cressy Tasmania.

Key duties include.

- Field Operations — Conduct mowing, tractor slashing, and general grounds upkeep to maintain trial areas and ensure station facilities are always presented at a high standard

- Seed Cleaning, Handling & Processing — Clean, package, label, and prepare seed for trials, storage, and distribution.

- Trial Support — Assist with cutting dry‑matter trials, sample collection, plot maintenance, and basic measurements under direction from senior staff.

- Harvesting Activities — Operate agricultural machinery and use manual tools to harvest seed crops and trial plots safely and accurately under direction from senior staff.

- Chemical Application — Support spraying activities, including preparing solutions, operating equipment, and following all chemical‑handling protocols.

- Equipment Care — Clean, maintain, and report issues with mowers, sprayers, harvest tools, and other field equipment.

- Record Keeping — Enter basic field notes, sample labels, and operational logs as directed.





- Health, Safety & Compliance — Follow all WHS procedures, PPE requirements, chemical‑use regulations, and station protocols.

Required Skills & Competencies

- Ability to operate mowers, small machinery, and spraying equipment safely

- Basic understanding of field trial processes

- Practical problem‑solving and willingness to work outdoors in variable conditions

- Attention to detail in seed cleaning, sample handling and record keeping

- Ability to follow instructions and work both independently and in a team

Qualifications & Experience

- Desirable: Experience in agriculture, horticulture, or grounds maintenance

- Desirable: Chemical‑handling accreditation (e.g. ChemCert)

- Advantageous: Experience with field trials or research stations

Physical Requirements

- Ability to lift and stack moderate weights (seed bags, equipment)

- Comfortable working outdoors for extended periods

- Ability to operate machinery safely and perform repetitive manual tasks

Work Setting & Conditions

- Outdoor fieldwork in varying weather

- Seasonal peaks during planting, harvesting, and trial measurement periods

- Use of chemicals, machinery, and PPE in accordance with WHS standards

The successful applicant will have excellent attention to detail, a current unrestricted driver’s licence and permanent residency are all essential to apply for this position.

To apply for this exciting position please detail your experience relating to the key duties in a covering letter, addressed to the Research Station Manager and attach your CV, applications close Monday 30/11/2026.

📌 Field Assistant (Cressy)
🏢 Upper Murray Seeds
📍 Cressy