At a Glance
- Tasks: Join us in preserving Scotland's historic monuments through traditional stonemasonry techniques.
- Company: Historic Environment Scotland, dedicated to conserving our cultural heritage.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, generous leave, and support for your professional growth.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and opportunities for training and mentoring apprentices.
- Why this job: Make a tangible impact on iconic sites like Stirling Castle while honing your craft.
- Qualifications: Experience in stonemasonry and a passion for conservation are essential.
The predicted salary is between 29622 - 29622 £ per year.
Starting salary: £29,622 pro rata, per year
Contract type: Permanent
Grade: 2
Location: Stirling Depot
Working Hours: Full time: Summer (Apr to Sept) Monday to Thursday 7.30 am to 4.15 pm, Friday 7.30 am to 2.00 pm; Winter (Oct to Mar) Monday to Thursday 8 am to 4.15 pm, Friday off
Interviews: To be held in person at Argyll's Lodging on Week Commencing 31 August 2026
Thank you for your interest in the post of Stonemason with Historic Environment Scotland that will be based at our Stirling Depot. This is a permanent, full-time position.
The Monument Conservation Unit (MCU) based in Stirling is tasked with the responsibility for conservation, maintenance and presentation works within the Stirling depot's remit. You will assist with conservation and routine maintenance works to HES monuments in the Stirling Depot area including one of our flagship sites, Stirling Castle.
Benefits of joining us at Historic Environment Scotland:
- Enrolment onto a Civil Service Pension scheme – 28% employer contribution
- 25 days annual leave, pro-rata (increasing to 30 days after 3 years) + 11.5 public holidays
- Reimbursement for relevant professional subscriptions
- Support for further education and personal development
- Study leave for work related courses
- Flexible working hours (where appropriate)
- Free entry to all of our properties (with up to three guests)
- Free entry to English Heritage, Manx and Cadw properties
Key Responsibilities of this role:
- You will carry out conservation and routine maintenance works to HES monuments in the various depot areas. This involves all forms of traditional masonry including:
- Stone cutting/hewing of various architectural mouldings/stones for the Depot sites and monuments in other depot areas as required.
- Traditional building/repairs/indenting of stonework.
- Raking out and pointing defective joints and beds.
- Promote traditional methods of conservation and masonry techniques to carry out challenging and diverse conservation projects/works.
- Operate hand tools in addition to powered machinery such as disc saws, mortar mixers, compressors, hoists etc. to facilitate the work when trained to do so.
- The winter season may consist of work outwith the normal duties associated with stonemasonry consisting of lime washing, ground works and cobbles/slabs repair as well as general presentation works.
- Provide training and mentoring for apprentice stonemasons in traditional conservation skills when required.
- Comply with and promote HES Health and Safety Policy.
From time to time you will be required to attend training courses identified to assist the work, or to comply with health and safety legislation (this may require overnight stays away from home).
Key requirements of the role:
In order for you to be successful in this post, we will be looking for you to submit a cover letter which addresses how you can meet each of the essential and desirable criteria (in up to 1,200 words), using examples of where you have demonstrated these criteria previously. Please ensure that you provide real life examples for each of the criteria to be considered for this post. You can use examples of how you have met this criteria from your work life, home life, education or volunteer experience. Please read our CV and Cover Letter Guidance first before completing, as you will only be eligible for selection if you use examples of how you meet the essential and desirable criteria.
Essential:
- Be a time served tradesperson
- Proven knowledge of the stonemasonry trade and other traditional building crafts. In particular an understanding and knowledge of current conservation practices and techniques relating to historic buildings and monuments.
- Good understanding and practical experience of the conservation, presentation and repair of Historic Monuments and/or listed buildings.
- Good all-round understanding and practical experience of using lime mortars.
- SVQ level 4 or SVQF level 6 (advanced craft) in Stonemasonry.
- Competent in all aspects of stone cutting, hewing practices and techniques.
- Competent in stone repair, indenting and the various practices and techniques used.
- Competent in building of stonework of both random rubble and ashlar work.
We are dedicated to building a workforce which is reflective of diversity within Scotland. We warmly welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds, regardless of age, race, gender or gender identity, religious beliefs, marital status, sexual orientation, disability, or neurodiversity. In support of our Gaelic Language Plan, we welcome applications from Gaelic speakers.
We want every candidate to have the best chance to succeed during the recruitment process. If you require your application in an alternative format, please reach out to us via email at recruit@hes.scot or call our Head Office at 0131 668 8600 and speak to a member of our People Team.
Please note that, at this time, we are unfortunately unable to provide sponsorship as part of the recruitment process, therefore you must have current right to work in the UK to be considered for a post.
To submit your application online, please read our ‘How to Apply’ followed by ‘Apply Now’ button to begin your application.
Stonemason - Stirling Depot employer: Historic Environment Scotland
Historic Environment Scotland (HES) is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to the preservation of Scotland's rich heritage while advancing your legal career. With a collaborative work culture, employees benefit from professional development opportunities and the chance to engage in meaningful projects that have a real impact on the community. Located in a vibrant environment, HES fosters a supportive atmosphere where innovation and teamwork thrive, making it an ideal place for those seeking a rewarding role in the legal field.
Contact Details:
Historic Environment Scotland Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Stonemason - Stirling Depot
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Look into joining organisations specific to your trade (like the National Federation of Builders or similar). They often have job boards, networking events, and apprenticeships that can put you in touch with employers who value skilled workers. Plus, being part of these communities adds credibility to your profiles!
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Craft a portfolio that highlights your craftsmanship—before and after photos, project descriptions, and client testimonials are all golden! Share this on platforms that cater to skilled trades, like Instagram or dedicated forums, to attract potential employers looking for your skillset.
✨Apply Directly and Follow Up
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We think you need these skills to ace Stonemason - Stirling Depot
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills with Certificates:In the skilled trades world, your practical skills and certifications are key! Make sure you highlight any relevant qualifications or training you've completed. If you’ve got a trade-specific certificate, like an NVQ or City & Guilds, include it in your CV to catch Historic Environment Scotland's eye.
Tailor Your CV to the Job:Don’t just send out a generic CV; tailor it specifically for the skilled trades role at Historic Environment Scotland. Emphasise your hands-on experience, the tools and techniques you’re proficient in, and any notifiable compliance standards you've met. This shows that you’ve put thought into your application.
Highlight Your Projects or Achievements:Don’t forget to showcase any significant projects or achievements in your cover letter. Whether it’s completing a complex installation or meeting deadlines on a large project, these details make a big difference. They help paint a picture of your expertise and dedication!
Keep It Concise and Relevant:When applying for a full-time role in skilled trades, keep your writing to the point. Hiring managers appreciate clear, concise applications. Focus on relevant experiences and skills, and avoid fluff. Remember, they’re looking for someone who can get the job done—so show them you can!
How to prepare for a job interview at Historic Environment Scotland
✨Master the Hands-On Skills
In skilled trades, practical skills matter a ton. Be ready to showcase your hands-on abilities during the interview—whether it's through a practical test or a demonstration of your craftsmanship. Bring your best examples of past projects to discuss them in detail!
✨Know Your Tools Like the Back of Your Hand
Employers in the skilled trades often want to hear about your proficiency with specific tools and equipment. Brush up on the tools relevant to your field and be prepared to discuss your experiences using them. This shows you’re not just experienced but also safe and competent.
✨Be Ready to Talk About Safety Practices
Safety is paramount in skilled trades. Be prepared to discuss your knowledge of safety regulations and how you've implemented them in previous roles. This will demonstrate your commitment to a safe working environment—a quality that employers highly value.
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
When tackling skilled trade roles, employers want to know about your ability to think on your feet. Be ready with examples of how you've solved unexpected problems on the job. This will illustrate your adaptability and resourcefulness, key traits for a full-time position at Historic Environment Scotland.
