Vertical Future (VF) is a global vertical farming technology and data company, which designs, manufactures, and builds high-tech vertical farms in the UK and across the globe. Founded in 2016, the companys proprietary hardware and software technologies are award-winning and market leading. VF is also a Global Innovator in the World Economic Forum and strategic partner of the World Green Economy Organisation.

Role Overview

This is an exciting opportunity to join the company, working at its flagship build site in Horton, Northamptonshire, which is recognised as the most automated farm in the world. The role offers opportunities for growth in the organisation, first starting with developing the fundamental skills around the efficient operating of farms. The site is primarily dedicated to research and development so the role, working alongside VFs Plant Science Team and reporting to VFs Head of Operations, will be to ensure that the site operates effectively and efficiently at all times.

Key Responsibilities

Support and monitor daily automated seeding processes, supported by the companys Engineering, Software and Plant Science Teams inputs;

• Support and monitor daily automated harvesting processes and manual harvesting, where necessary;
• Weigh and assess outputs to provide to the Plant Science Team;
• Monitor the overall performance of the system, ensuring it works efficiently, and engaging with the Engineering Team if there are any faults;
• General site and system cleaning and maintenance, including engaging with the site owner and any supporting service providers (e.g. deliveries and refuse);
• Execute start of day checks and end of day clean down procedures;
• Interact with in-house proprietary operating software to view tasks and system alerts;
• Work alongside the Operations Manager and Head of Operations to make the site more efficient.
  
  

Attributes And Requirements

• A University degree is not necessary for this role;
• A car or transport to the site is a core requirement as the site is located in a rural area;
• Advantageous to have experience of vertical farm or CEA facilities; (working lab or research environments or transferable skills;);
• Attention to detail and a positive can do attitude;
• Someone who wants to learn and grow within an exciting company;
• Good observational skills and problem-solving abilities are essential;
• A team player able to work in a matrix managed environment;
• A flexible approach to work is essential as the role will involve a range of duties;
• A self starter who is dependable, motivated, resourceful and thorough - ready to roll up sleeves and get involved and keen to make an Team impact;
• Displays a willingness to learn and shares an problem-solving and proactive and methodical approach to work and works well independently with attention to detail (with limited instruction);
• Applies a professional work ethic: a positive, calm and resilient personality who works successfully as part of a multidisciplinary team;
• Demonstrates strong interpersonal skills (both oral and written: able to engage and communicate with suppliers, stakeholders and colleagues at all levels with ease (cooperatively and efficiently); and recording, reporting, presentation skills);
• General manual handling duties will be required;
• Fluency in English is mandatory; a second, third or fourth language is a bonus;
• An interest in sustainable agriculture and/or food is a plus.
  
  

Benefits

• Become part of a dedicated friendly and growing team
• Join a positive and supportive environment
• Gain exposure to an innovative and developing industry and sector
• 25 days of holiday (excluding bank holidays)
• Cycle to work scheme
• Company pension scheme
• Competitive salary and with bi-annual performance reviews
• Annual bonus (dependent on personal performance and company-wide performance)
• Enhance company policies with staff driven and owned benefits and rewards.
• Additional perks including Share Options, access to training, resources, a mentoring programme, a developing employee assistance programme and other benefits including townhalls, company socials, outings and get-togethers.