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- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team in planting and harvesting seed potatoes on a thriving estate.
- Company: Mertoun Estate, a well-equipped farm in the beautiful Scottish Borders.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, accommodation options, pension scheme, and holiday entitlement.
- Why this job: Join a hands-on role with opportunities for growth in modern farming techniques.
- Qualifications: Experience in arable farming and strong mechanical skills are essential.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team focused on safety and quality.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Mertoun Estate, based near St. Boswells in the Scottish Borders, farms approximately 1,300 hectares in-hand, with a further 400 hectares managed under two neighbouring contract farming agreements. Cropping includes winter wheat, oilseed rape, barley, oats, seed potatoes, and green manures under the Agri-Environment Climate Scheme (AECS). Around 100 hectares of vining peas are also grown annually with Scottish Borders Produce.
Excellent infrastructure, well maintained machinery and an experienced team provide the ideal environment for efficient and high-quality arable production.
Mertoun Estate is seeking an experienced and motivated Farm Foreman / Lead Operator to take a key hands-on role to support the Farm Manager ensuring effective teamwork and high standards of workmanship. A key focus of the role will be the planting and harvesting of approximately 130 hectares of seed potatoes, alongside the wider combinable crop rotation and estate.
This is a hands-on leadership position, ideal for a skilled operator with strong technical and mechanical abilities. The role offers excellent scope for professional growth and increased responsibility, particularly within the seed potato enterprise, as the successful candidate demonstrates capability and commitment.
Key Responsibilities- Contribute to a positive and safety-conscious working environment.
- Work collaboratively as part of a strong team to deliver daily operations across the estate.
- Planting and harvesting of 130ha of seed potatoes.
- Operate and maintain a modern fleet of machinery and precision farming systems.
- Relief operations including spraying.
- Support accurate and compliant records for crop operations and assurance schemes.
- Help maintain a tidy, organised and professional workplace including yards, buildings, machinery and the wider estate.
- Assist with grain drying, storage and loading out.
- Uphold high standards of safety, efficiency, and environmental care.
- Help train, motivate, and lead farm staff and seasonal workers.
- Deputise for the Farm Manager when required.
- Solid background in arable farming; potato experience beneficial.
- Excellent mechanical and technical skills; ability to service and repair modern farm machinery.
- Strong practical knowledge of crop husbandry and modern arable systems.
- Competence with GPS, auto-steer, and precision farming technology.
- PA1 and PA2 (spraying) certificates desirable.
- Full UK driving licence essential; telehandler licence advantageous.
- Sound understanding of health, safety, and environmental best practices.
- Practical, reliable and motivated with a positive, proactive attitude.
- A hands-on, team player with strong communication skills.
- Positive attitude towards Health & Safety.
- Ability to prioritise, problem solve and adapt.
- Mechanically minded.
- Takes pride in maintaining a tidy, well-organised workplace.
- Detail-focused, with pride in quality and efficiency.
- Forward-thinking and eager to develop within the role, particularly within the seed potato enterprise.
- Competitive salary, based on experience.
- Accommodation available on the estate if required.
- Pension scheme and holiday entitlement in line with estate policy.
- A long-term, team focused role with excellent opportunities for progression.
Please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and interest in the role by 23rd January 2026.
Farm Foreman / Lead Operator in Saint Boswells employer: Mertoun Estate Farms Ltd
Contact Detail:
Mertoun Estate Farms Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Farm Foreman / Lead Operator in Saint Boswells
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the team! Before your interview, try to connect with current employees on social media or through networking events. This will give you insights into the company culture and help you tailor your approach.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! During interviews, be ready to discuss specific examples of your experience with machinery and crop management. Bring along any relevant certifications or training records to back up your claims.
✨Tip Number 3
Ask questions that matter! Prepare thoughtful questions about the estate's operations and future plans. This shows you're genuinely interested and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it easy for you to submit your application directly, ensuring it gets to the right people quickly. Plus, you'll have access to more resources and tips to help you land that job!
We think you need these skills to ace Farm Foreman / Lead Operator in Saint Boswells
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Farm Foreman / Lead Operator role. Highlight your experience in arable farming, especially with seed potatoes, and any mechanical skills you have. We want to see how your background fits perfectly with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Share your passion for farming and why you're excited about this role at Mertoun Estate. We love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in contributing to our team and the estate's success.
Showcase Your Team Spirit: Since teamwork is key in this role, make sure to mention any experiences where you've worked collaboratively. We value a positive attitude and strong communication skills, so let us know how you’ve contributed to a great working environment in the past!
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about Mertoun Estate and what we stand for.
How to prepare for a job interview at Mertoun Estate Farms Ltd
✨Know Your Crops
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of the crops mentioned in the job description, especially seed potatoes. Be ready to discuss your experience with planting and harvesting, as well as any specific techniques or technologies you've used.
✨Show Off Your Mechanical Skills
Since the role requires strong mechanical abilities, prepare to talk about your experience with modern farm machinery. Bring examples of how you've serviced or repaired equipment in the past, and be ready to demonstrate your technical know-how.
✨Teamwork is Key
This position emphasises collaboration, so think of examples where you've worked effectively within a team. Highlight your leadership skills and how you've motivated others, especially in high-pressure situations like planting or harvesting seasons.
✨Safety First
With a focus on health and safety, be prepared to discuss your understanding of best practices in the field. Share any relevant certifications you have, like PA1 and PA2, and explain how you ensure a safe working environment for yourself and your team.