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- Tasks: Manage a diverse farm with Highland cows and Cheviot ewes while collaborating on conservation efforts.
- Company: Join RSPB Scotland, a leader in nature conservation and sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, pension scheme, life assurance, and 26 days of annual leave.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on conservation while working in stunning Hebridean landscapes.
- Qualifications: Agricultural qualification or equivalent experience in cattle and sheep management required.
- Other info: A two-bedroom farmhouse flat is available for the successful candidate.
The predicted salary is between 44135 - 47178 £ per year.
Location: The Oa, Islay
Salary: £44,135.00 - £47,178.00 Per Annum
Contract: Permanent
Hours: Full-Time
Benefits: Pension scheme (7%), Life Assurance scheme, 26 days' annual leave (plus bank holidays)
We are looking for a robust and competent individual for the challenging role of Farm Manager on our Oa Reserve on the Hebridean Island of Islay. Reporting to the Senior Farms Manager, and assisted by a stockperson, you will be responsible for:
- 40 Highland cows crossed to a Whitebred Shorthorn bull
- 80 Highland cows bred to Charolais bulls
- 400 NCC hill Cheviot ewes
This is no ordinary farm job. You will be working closely with the site’s conservation team to deliver against the outcomes in the five-year management plan - and expected to contribute to the annual and ongoing reviews of that, as well as the redrafting when that falls due. You will be an important part of the wider Argyll, Arran & Ardnamurchan team.
A two-bedroom, farmhouse flat is available to the successful candidate.
Essential skills, knowledge and experience:
- An agricultural qualification or equivalent experience
- Cattle and sheep management experience, preferably in a hill/upland setting, including knowledge and experience of all associated record keeping
- Veterinary and medicine handling
- Fencing and shearing skills
- Able to work long, physically demanding hours over challenging, clifftop terrain
- Able to safely and legally operate the associated range of machinery and road vehicles
- Interested in the wider elements of the position and capable of taking pride in farming to the highest standards
Desirable skills, knowledge and experience:
- Staff management and team working
- Budget management, purchasing/negotiation skills
- Dog handling skills and your own dog
- Machinery and power tools certification
- Possession of a firearms certificate, or a willingness to gain one would be of benefit
- An advocate for RSPB Scotland
If you think this sounds like you then we would really like to hear from you!
Closing date: 23:59, Sunday 15th June 2025
We are looking to conduct interviews for this position from 27th June 2025. Interested?
If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our website to complete your application for this position.
As part of this application process you will be asked to complete an application form including evidence on how you meet the skills, knowledge, and experience listed above.
We are committed to developing an inclusive and diverse RSPB, in which everyone feels supported, valued, and able to be their full selves. To achieve our vision of creating a world richer in nature, we need more people, and more diverse people, on nature’s side. People of colour and disabled people are currently underrepresented across the environment, climate, sustainability, and conservation sector. If you identify as a person of colour and/or disabled, we are particularly interested in receiving your application. Contact us to discuss any additional support you may need to complete your application.
The RSPB is an equal opportunities employer. This role is covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. The RSPB is a licenced sponsor. This role is eligible for UK Visa Sponsorship. No agencies please.
Farm Manager employer: RSPB
Contact Detail:
RSPB Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Farm Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific livestock management practices mentioned in the job description. Highlight your experience with Highland cows and NCC hill Cheviot ewes during any discussions or interviews, as this will show your direct relevance to the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Demonstrate your understanding of conservation efforts and how they relate to farming. Since you'll be working closely with the conservation team, showing that you value and understand these principles can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with record keeping and veterinary handling. Being able to articulate your knowledge in these areas will reassure the hiring team of your capability to manage the farm effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
If you have any experience in budget management or staff supervision, be ready to share specific examples. This role may require you to manage resources and lead a team, so showcasing your leadership skills will be beneficial.
We think you need these skills to ace Farm Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Farm Manager position. Make notes on how your experience aligns with their needs.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, emphasise your agricultural qualifications and any relevant experience in cattle and sheep management. Be specific about your skills in record keeping, veterinary handling, and machinery operation.
Showcase Your Passion for Conservation: Since this role involves working closely with a conservation team, express your commitment to environmental sustainability and any previous experiences that demonstrate your advocacy for nature.
Tailor Your Application: Customise your application form to reflect how you meet the essential and desirable skills listed in the job description. Use specific examples to illustrate your capabilities and achievements.
How to prepare for a job interview at RSPB
✨Showcase Your Agricultural Knowledge
Make sure to highlight your agricultural qualifications and any relevant experience you have. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of cattle and sheep management, especially in hill or upland settings, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork and Leadership Skills
Since the position involves working closely with a conservation team and managing staff, be ready to share experiences where you've successfully led a team or collaborated with others. This will show that you can contribute positively to the wider team.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions about your hands-on skills, such as fencing, shearing, and machinery operation. Be ready to explain how you handle veterinary care and medicine, as well as any certifications you hold related to machinery and power tools.
✨Express Your Passion for Conservation
The role requires a commitment to high farming standards and conservation efforts. Share your enthusiasm for these areas and any previous experiences that demonstrate your dedication to environmental sustainability and wildlife protection.
