Location: Stafford

Salary (POA)

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​A responsible and safety-focused Spray Operative responsible for the safe preparation, application, and recording of crop protection products across soft fruit production areas. The role ensures compliance with UK pesticide regulations, farm assurance standards, and internal Health & Safety procedures while maintaining crop health and environmental protection.

 

Job duties

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Chemical Handling & Application

• Prepare and apply approved crop protection products (herbicides, fungicides, insecticides) in accordance with product label instructions.

• Operate tractor-mounted, trailed, or knapsack sprayers safely and efficiently.

• Accurately measure and mix chemicals using calibrated equipment.

• Always follow COSHH assessments and farm spray plans.

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Machinery Operation & Calibration

• Carry out daily pre-use checks on sprayers and associated equipment.

• Calibrate sprayers to ensure accurate application rates.

• Identify blockages, nozzle wear, leaks, or pressure issues before escalation.

• Maintain spray equipment cleanliness and operational readiness.

 

​Compliance & Record Keeping

• Maintain detailed spray records (date, field, product, rate, operator, weather conditions).

• Ensure compliance with UK pesticide legislation and farm assurance schemes (e.g. Red Tractor standards if applicable).

• Observe buffer zones and environmental protection requirements.

• Follow re-entry intervals and ensure field signage is displayed where required.

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Health, Safety & Environmental Protection

• Wear and maintain appropriate PPE.

• Handle, store, and dispose of chemicals and containers safely.

• Monitor weather conditions (wind speed, temperature, rainfall) prior to spraying.

• Report spills, incidents, or near misses immediately.

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Job skills and qualifications:

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Skills & Experience Required:​​

• PA1 and PA2 (or equivalent) pesticide application certification preferred.

• Experience operating spraying equipment desired but not necessary..

• Strong understanding of safe chemical handling and environmental controls.

• Good attention to detail and accurate record-keeping ability.

• Ability to work independently and responsibly.

• Physically fit and comfortable working outdoors.

 

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How to apply

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To apply for this role contact hr@dearnsdalefruit.co.uk

 

Please include your CV.