A Horticultural Technician nurtures species of fruits, vegetables, plants and flowers to optimise their yield so they grow at their best
Fruit, vegetables, plants, and flowers are all grown in the horticultural industry. Each species in each of these categories benefits from particular conditions – soil, watering, feed, and temperatures – to grow at its best.
Research takes place to understand what makes the difference to a plant’s health. Seedlings are nurtured in different conditions to compare the results and new techniques are employed to increase the yield of fruit or quality of flowers. You could be the technician who helps to create delicious fruits that feed people, and plants and flowers that make them happy.
Once you’ve gained experience in seed production, you could move on to leading a team and taking responsibility for crop management.
You could also become an independent grower, a researcher, or offer your skills as a consultant to other growers.
There’s no perfect career path or ideal way into your dream job.
But if you’re interested in education and training options that could be relevant to this role, you might want to consider:
Options available after GCSEs:
Schools and colleges each have their own career guidance plan and can provide detailed information, advice, and guidance on options and next steps.
The horticulture industry is innovative and technologically advanced, combining scientific research with high-tech machinery and lots of outdoor work. As well as optimising fruit yields and enhancing the vibrancy of plants and flowers, you will also need to consider the surrounding environment to make sure growing practices maintain or improve the land.
This role can also be known by some other job titles including:
Arable Technician
Horticulture Operative
