Hill Shepherd - Scarlaw Farm in Kelso

The Role will be part of Roxburghe Estates Hill Farming enterprise and report to the Head Gamekeeper.

About us: The estate has been part of the Scottish Borders since 1358. Everything we do is to ensure that we continue into the next millennium. Through our longevity, we have developed deep connections with the land and its people and we are guided by the principle that our operations benefit the health of the environment and the prosperity of local communities. We are not just enduring; we will constantly innovate and grow to maximise the potential of the region and land under our care so we will be a source of inspiration and a model estate for the 21st Century.

Passionate People: It takes a certain sort of person to flourish in such a fast-paced, multi-dimensional environment like Floors Castle. We look for talented, self-motivated and enthusiastic individuals who will be able to share our passion for providing a warm welcome and amazing experiences.

Our Values: Custodians, Community, Authenticity, Drive, Warmth.

Purpose of the role: We seek to employ a full-time shepherd to work alongside the existing shepherd at Byrecleugh and gamekeeping team. This is a permanent and long-term role for somebody wishing to progress their agricultural career. Scarlaw Farm is located 8 miles outside of Duns, in the Scottish Borders. The Farm covers 4,100 acres of both in-bye and hill ground, running around 1,750 ewes and 420 wedders. The position reports directly to the Head Gamekeeper and involves taking responsibility for the day-to-day management of the farm’s sheep flock, ensuring the highest standards of animal welfare and husbandry are maintained throughout the year. The successful candidate will need to be self-motivated, capable of working independently, and able to contribute effectively as part of a supportive estate team.

The flock consists of 1,750 ewes and ewe hoggs, all of which lamb outdoors between mid-April and May. The enterprise produces a combination of finished lambs, store lambs, and replacement ewe lambs for sale or retention within the flock. The sheep operation works closely alongside the estate's grouse moor management and plays an important role in the estate's tick control programme, making the flock a valuable component of the wider estate management strategy.

Key responsibilities:

• Day to Day management of approximately 1,750 ewes.
• All aspects of sheep work, including but not limited to lambing, dosing, jagging, gathering etc.
• Accurate record keeping and livestock administration.
• General farm duties and basic machinery maintenance.

Qualities you will possess:

• Enthusiasm
• Confidence to make decisions and to stand by them
• Excellent communicator
• Take responsibility for yourself
• Good time keeping

What do you need to be successful?

• Full UK Driving Licence
• ATV Licence (desirable)
• Working dog(s)
• Machinery (tractor and telehandler) experience

This role requires a practical and capable individual who can work independently while also contributing as part of the wider estate team, working closely with the existing shepherd at Byrecleugh and the estate's gamekeeping staff. Applicants should demonstrate excellent stockmanship, a strong work ethic, and a commitment to high standards of animal welfare. A clean driving licence is essential.

A competitive package is available, including accommodation, kennels, and additional employee benefits.

To apply, please send a CV and covering letter via the link below. Applications should be submitted by the 10th of July. Interviews may be arranged shortly after applications are received.