Riverford Organic Farmers
Sustainability Researcher

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Sustainability Researcher - Part time - 24 hours - 12 month FTC
Riverford Organic Farmers, a leading organic farming company committed to sustainable agriculture, is seeking a dedicated and passionate Sustainability Researcher to join our team for a maternity cover position.
This is a job share with another team member also carrying out the sustainability researcher role. The primary responsibility of the Sustainability Researcher will be to lead research projects focused on sustainable farming, packaging, and other operational sustainability topics (this can include carbon reduction in manufacturing, renewable energy projects, water saving and more).
This role involves working across the business, including Riverford’s Farm team, Supply Chain team, and Technical team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in sustainability, agricultural or ecological research, a good understanding of farming practices, and excellent communication skills.
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I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
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Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
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Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
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This role is part of a team who contribute to the advancement of sustainable farming practices while promoting environmental stewardship. Together, our aim is to make a positive impact on our planet and create a more sustainable future.
Hours
This is a 12 month fixed term contract to cover maternity leave working 24 hours a week. We are flexible in how this is split during the week and can be over 3 or 4 days. 2 days a week will need to be working from Wash Farm, Buckfastleigh.
Salary
£32,000 - £39,000 per annum, pro rata, depending on experience.
Skills & Experiences
- MSc in sustainability, environmental science, agronomy, or a related field.
- Proven experience in leading and conducting research projects, preferably in the context of sustainable agriculture (such as designing and implementing field trials)
- Knowledge of organic farming principles, biodiversity conservation, soil health, water management, and other sustainability-related topics.
- Familiarity with funding options and grant schemes in the field of environmental conservation and agriculture.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to effectively communicate complex information to diverse audiences.


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Application Process
We'll be reviewing applications throughout the duration of the advert and may choose to bring the closing date forward; therefore, we'd encourage you to apply at your earliest convenience.
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