Yester Estate is a historic Scottish estate set in East Lothian, known for its sweeping parkland, formal and walled gardens, productive plots, and well-maintained grounds. Our team is committed to maintaining the estate to the highest standards, preserving its heritage while enhancing its natural beauty.
Role Overview - We are seeking a practical, experienced, and motivated Head keeper / Estate Support to assist with the day-to-day management of wildlife and estate grounds. The role includes a mix of deer management, predator control, and general estate maintenance, contributing to the estate’s long-term conservation goals and landscape care.
This is a full-time, outdoor-based role suited to someone with relevant qualifications and a strong work ethic. The successful applicant will work as part of the wider estate team and play a key part in sustainable countryside management.
Key Responsibilities
Game Shoot
- Establish and Oversee an exciting new Pheasant Shoot, across 1300acres of mixed woodland, arable and grassland
- To assist to Estate Manager in the hosting of High End shoot days
- To oversee and carry out the highest level of bird health welfare.
Wildlife & Game Management
- Conduct deer stalking in line with estate population and habitat objectives
- Carry out legal and humane predator control activities
- Keep accurate records of culls, sightings, and wildlife activity
- Support low-intensity shoot days or game bird care as required
Estate Support & Land Maintenance
- Undertake fencing, ditching, and habitat improvements
- Assist in forestry or woodland edge management
- Operate and maintain machinery, ATVs, and field tools
- Help with storm recovery, seasonal land care, and upkeep of tracks and boundaries
Conservation & Compliance
- Support the estate’s conservation and biodiversity initiatives
- Ensure all activities meet current Scottish wildlife legislation and best practices
- Liaise with the estate manager on safety, priorities, and reporting
Job Types: Part-time, Freelance, Permanent
Pay: From £27,400.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company events
- Life insurance
- On-site parking
- Private medical insurance
Work Location: In person
