Hill Shepherd

Burncastle & Tollishill - Scottish Borders

An exciting opportunity presents itself to work alongside the existing shepherds at Burncastle and Tollishill Estates.

For the right candidate over time there may be the opportunity for career progression across the wider Burncastle and Tollishill team. In return a competitive salary, accommodation and kennels are available. A driving licence, working dogs and hill experience is essential and whilst ATV experience is desirable, training can be provided.

MAIN PURPOSE OF THE ROLE:

To work alongside the existing shepherds, to implement the Estate’s objectives across the hill and in-bye flocks, under the close eye of Head Shepherd.

Objectives include environmental and sporting enhancement and financial profitability of the farming business. The role will work in close cooperation with the head shepherd, game department, landowner and agents to ensure efficient delivery of Estate objectives.

The role will involve supporting with the day-to-day management of the farming enterprises, ensuring high levels of animal welfare, the presentation of high-quality livestock, with diligent compliance while delivering environmental outcomes to meet the business’s needs.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include but not limited to:-

Work with the shepherding team to maintain and where possible enhance the already established hill and in-bye flock and loyal customer base

Day to day stock management on the holding

Deliver the primary objectives required for Grouse Moor management

Deliver management decisions in line with farming budget and policy as well as the wider Estate strategy

To ensure all matters of compliance are recorded and presented, including stock movement and medical records, treatment plans, input applications and relevant flock performance data

Ensure good maintenance of the holding is actioned in-house where appropriate or that contractors are instructed where required (fencing, building repairs)

Proactive day to day communications with the wider farm team and members of the game department to deliver the farm strategy and wider Estate objectives in an efficient manner

QUALIFICATIONS, SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Full UK Driving Licence
• Good knowledge and experience of hill sheep systems
• Competent and experienced in all flock and herd tasks
• Quad bike, ATV and tractor experience (training will be provided if necessary)
• Ability to make decisions and operate independently on a day-to-day basis, whilst being able to work alongside and cooperate with other departments and the team on the ground
• Ability to work and live in a remote, rural environment
• Knowledge and understanding of record keeping and statutory requirements
• Physically fit and capable of coping with the demands of the role and location of the farm
• Ability to multi-task and be organised
• IT skills and a knowledge of EID and livestock technology
• Have experience and an interest in blackface sheep

What’s Offered

• Competitive salary
• Accommodation and kennels (if live-in)
• Additional employee benefits

To apply, please send your CV and covering letter via the link below