At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage and develop cattle and sheep on a beautiful 1,000-acre estate.
- Company: Winton Farm and Estate is a diverse farming operation near Edinburgh, focusing on organic practices.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, accommodation options, and support for working dogs and vehicles.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and contribute to sustainable farming while enjoying the stunning East Lothian landscape.
- Qualifications: Experience with livestock management and a willingness to learn about organic farming are essential.
- Other info: Full-time role starting December 2025 - January 2026, with 28 days holiday.
Job Description
Winton Farm and Estate, just 30 minutes from Edinburgh, is looking for an enthusiastic and experienced Stockperson to help manage and develop an emerging cattle and sheep enterprise.
The in-hand mixed farming operation of almost 1,000 acres is currently undergoing organic conversion, with approximately 250 acres of mixed herbal leys and 750 acres of cereals. Current cattle numbers consist of 66 Luing females, running with Red Angus and Luing bulls which calve outdoors in April and May. In addition, there are 4 Highland heifers which graze around the castle.
The sheep flock was founded with a purchase of 65 Lleyn gimmers which lambed indoors in April this year. A further 250 acres of mixed grass leys are to be established next year and accommodate further expanding livestock numbers
What We’re Looking For
Do you have a passion for livestock with attention to detail to achieve good technical performance for both sheep and cattle whilst ensuring a high health status and effective pasture management under organic certification? Can you capture and deliver on a vision for Winton cattle and sheep to become a profitable pride of the estate, able to complement a brand, the standard for which was set by royal craftsmen long ago? Can you help form part of an efficient team, integrating with other estate enterprises which include forestry, hospitality, outdoor activities and events?
Qualifications & Skills
• Experience of working and managing cattle and sheep.
• Knowledge and understanding of record keeping and use of livestock software.
• Experience of, or willingness to learn, organic farming requirements.
• Basic knowledge and experience operating agricultural machinery and equipment.
• Basic maintenance and repair skills for infrastructure including fencing, water, livestock housing and handling systems.
• Working dogs
• Willingness and the ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions with flexibility towards timing – particularly at calving and lambing.
• An attention to detail, good housekeeping and timekeeping.
• Driving licence valid within the UK.
Nice to haves
• Finance and administration skills for budgets & data recording
• Health and safety awareness
• An interest in livestock sales & marketing
• An interest in hospitality for farm tours & seasonal demonstrations
Why Join Winton Estate?
• Opportunity to become an integral part of a successful and supportive team within a diverse farming estate in the heart of East Lothian.
• There will be support from administration, HR & finance colleagues.
• Full time role with a competitive salary based on experience.
• Accommodation – an estate cottage can be made available from March 2026.
• Provision of /funding for working dog(s) and vehicle.
• Start date: December 2025 – January 2026.
• Holidays 28 days a year (rising to 30 after five years).
Early applications welcome – to apply: Please send your C.V. and covering letter.
Stockperson employer: Winton
Contact Detail:
Winton Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Stockperson
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with organic farming practices, as this role involves managing livestock under organic certification. Understanding the specific requirements and benefits of organic farming will show your commitment to the estate's vision.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any experience you have with livestock software and record keeping. Being able to demonstrate your proficiency in these areas will set you apart, as they are crucial for effective management of the cattle and sheep.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your teamwork skills and ability to integrate with other estate enterprises. This role requires collaboration across various sectors, so emphasising your experience in working within a team will be beneficial.
✨Tip Number 4
Be prepared to discuss your knowledge of agricultural machinery and basic maintenance skills. This practical knowledge is essential for the day-to-day operations on the farm and will demonstrate your readiness for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Stockperson
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience with cattle and sheep management. Include specific examples of your work with livestock, any organic farming knowledge, and your skills in record keeping and using livestock software.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for livestock and detail how your experience aligns with the vision for Winton Farm and Estate. Mention your attention to detail and ability to work as part of a team, as these are key qualities they are looking for.
Showcase Relevant Skills: Highlight any additional skills that may set you apart, such as experience with agricultural machinery, maintenance skills, or knowledge of health and safety practices. If you have finance or administration skills, be sure to mention those too.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Winton
✨Show Your Passion for Livestock
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for working with cattle and sheep. Share any relevant experiences you have had in managing livestock, and highlight your attention to detail when it comes to their health and welfare.
✨Demonstrate Your Knowledge of Organic Farming
Familiarise yourself with organic farming practices and be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to the estate's organic conversion. Showing a willingness to learn about these requirements will also impress the interviewers.
✨Highlight Your Teamwork Skills
Winton Farm values collaboration across different estate enterprises. Be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully worked as part of a team in previous roles, especially in challenging outdoor conditions.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions related to agricultural machinery operation and basic maintenance skills. Brush up on your knowledge of livestock software and record-keeping, as these are crucial for the role.