JOB DESCRIPTION
​Field Engineer - Agricultural Machinery Tester (NSTS Examiner)
Seasonal work January to end of April annually
Training November 2025 | Start Work Jan 2026
Excellent earning potential £££
GREAT WORK. GREAT PAY. GREAT EXPERIENCE.
SCS (Spreader & Sprayer Testing Ltd) is the UK’s leading NSTS (National Spreader/ Sprayer Testing Scheme) testing company – and we’re looking for new team members to join us for the 2026 testing season. If you’re mechanically minded, love being outdoors, and want to earn well during the quieter months of the farming year, this could be the perfect opportunity for you.
WHAT'S THE JOB?
You’ll be working as a self-employed Field Engineer, testing fertiliser spreaders and slug pelleters on farms across your region using our NSTS-approved systems and kit. You’ll help farmers get the best from their machinery and ensure accurate, safe spreading that protects their crops and the environment.
No previous testing experience is needed – we provide full training and the equipment you’ll need.
SEASONAL WORK - ANNUALLY
This is seasonal work, ideally suited to those with flexible availability between January and April (main testing period is February and March). Most of our current engineers work with us alongside other ag jobs or farm work – it’s a fantastic way to earn additional income during quieter times.
WHAT YOU'LL EARN
Our engineers are self-employed and earn a percentage of the job invoice. With jobs booked back-to-back in peak season, typical earnings are around £4,000/month, with experienced testers earning more.
You’ll be paid promptly each month, even if the customer hasn’t paid yet – we guarantee you won’t be out of pocket.
WHAT YOU'LL GET
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Full training in November 2025
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Two City & Guilds Level 2 Qualifications
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Use of bespoke SCS testing equipment (worth over £5,000 – supplied by us)
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Access to the UK’s most advanced spreader settings database
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Year-round support from our friendly HQ and experienced engineers
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Ongoing annual refresher training
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Flexibility to manage your own diary
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Active WhatsApp support group
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No start-up fees or hidden costs
WHO WE'RE LOOKING FOR
We’re looking for practical, motivated people with:
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Some mechanical experience
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A good understanding of agriculture
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Access to a 4x4 or van (you’ll need to carry test kit and reach farms)
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A mobile phone and internet access
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Good organisation skills
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The ability to work outdoors in varying weather
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The job is physical and will require you to do some lifting
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Perfect for farmers, contractors, farm workers, or anyone with ag experience looking for flexible, rewarding work.
WHERE
We’re recruiting nationwide. You’ll mostly work in your local area, but may occasionally need to travel further to avoid poor weather and keep machines tested on time.
A TYPICAL DAY MIGHT INCLUDE:
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Checking weather forecasts
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Calling farmers to confirm bookings
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Loading up test kit (trays, tubes, analysis tools)
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Heading out to farms to test spreaders in field conditions
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Making adjustments to optimise spreading patterns
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Recording test data via our user-friendly app (training provided)
WHY JOIN SCS?
SCS is a family-run business, based on our farm in Staffordshire, and has grown steadily over the past 25+ years. We’re proud to offer a friendly, supportive team environment where you’ll be backed 24/7 by office staff and fellow engineers.
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We are the only nationwide NSTS testing provider, trusted by the biggest names in agriculture – from machinery manufacturers and importers to Natural England and major farming groups.
Beyond agriculture, we're also the go-to choice for grounds teams in the amenities sector, supporting world-class venues including Cheltenham Racecourse, Royal Troon Golf Club, and dozens of professional football clubs.
INTERESTED?
If you’d like to learn more or apply, email your CV or a short summary of your experience to:
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Charlotte.Foxall@spreadcheck.com
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We’re happy to arrange an informal phone chat or face-to-face meeting to answer any questions.
TRY YOUR HAND AT TRAY TESTING - OPEN EVENTS THIS AUTUMN
Come and see what it’s all about before committing by attending one of 0our open events. Details of our next event are below.
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Location: Rookery Farm, Wheaton Aston, Staffordshire, ST19 9QF
Date: Week commencing 13th October 2025 – register your interest now.
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Book your place:
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Call: 01785 840849
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WhatsApp: 07721 355221
Our open events are a great chance to meet the SCS team and experience tray testing first-hand.
HEAR FROM OUR TEAM
“I joined SCS during my quieter months on the farm – now I look forward to it every year. Good pay, great support and it keeps me learning.” – Nathan Brooks - Herefordshire - SCS Field Engineer