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- Tasks: Manage livestock and collaborate with conservation teams on a stunning Hebridean island.
- Company: Join RSPB, a leading conservation charity dedicated to protecting nature.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, pension scheme, life assurance, and 26 days annual leave.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in conservation while enjoying the beauty of Islay.
- 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.
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:
- Managing 40 Highland cows crossed to a Whitebred Shorthorn bull
- Overseeing 80 Highland cows bred to Charolais bulls
- Supervising 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, contributing to its reviews and updates. 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 record keeping
- Veterinary and medicine handling skills
- Fencing and shearing skills
- Able to work long, physically demanding hours over challenging terrain
- Ability to safely operate machinery and road vehicles
- Interest in the wider aspects of the position and pride in high standards of farming
Desirable Skills, Knowledge And Experience
- Staff management and teamwork skills
- Budget management and negotiation skills
- Dog handling skills and own dog
- Machinery and power tools certification
- Possession or willingness to obtain a firearms certificate
- Advocacy for RSPB Scotland
If you think this sounds like you, we would love to hear from you!
Application Details
Closing date: 23:59, Sunday 15th June 2025. Interviews are expected to be conducted from 27th June 2025. To apply, click the button to be directed to our website to complete your application, including evidence of how you meet the required skills and experience.
Our Commitment
We are committed to creating an inclusive, diverse environment where everyone feels valued and supported. We especially encourage applications from people of colour and disabled individuals, as they are underrepresented in our sector. Please contact us for additional support if needed. The RSPB is an equal opportunities employer, covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, and a licensed sponsor for UK visas. No agencies please.
Farm Manager employer: s1jobs
Contact Detail:
s1jobs Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Farm Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific breeds mentioned in the job description, such as Highland cows and NCC hill Cheviot ewes. Understanding their management needs and behaviours will show your genuine interest and expertise during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any experience you have with conservation efforts or working alongside conservation teams. This role involves collaboration with a conservation team, so demonstrating your commitment to sustainable farming practices can set you apart.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with record keeping and veterinary skills. Being able to provide examples of how you've managed livestock health and documentation will be crucial in showcasing your suitability for this role.
✨Tip Number 4
If you have any certifications related to machinery operation or power tools, make sure to mention them. This role requires safe operation of machinery, and having relevant qualifications can give you an edge over other candidates.
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 required skills for the Farm Manager position. Make notes on how your experience aligns with these requirements.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your agricultural qualifications and any relevant experience in cattle and sheep management, especially in hill or upland settings. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills.
Showcase Your Skills: Mention any additional skills that are desirable for the role, such as staff management, budget management, or machinery certification. This will help you stand out as a well-rounded candidate.
Tailor Your Application: Customise your application documents to reflect the values and mission of the RSPB. Show your interest in conservation and how you can contribute to their goals, particularly in relation to the five-year management plan.
How to prepare for a job interview at s1jobs
✨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 role involves supervising a stockperson and working with a conservation team, it's important to showcase your staff management and teamwork skills. Share experiences where you've successfully led a team or collaborated on projects.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect practical questions related to veterinary handling, machinery operation, and record keeping. Brush up on these areas and be ready to explain your approach to managing these tasks effectively.
✨Express Your Passion for Conservation
This position requires a commitment to conservation efforts. Be sure to express your interest in the wider aspects of the role and how you can contribute to the five-year management plan. Showing enthusiasm for the environment will set you apart.
