Estate Couple Opportunity
Remote West Scotland – a unique lifestyle
Are you a skilled couple seeking a rare opportunity to live and work in one of the most breath-taking remote locations in West Scotland?
We are looking for a dedicated and adaptable couple who value the tranquillity of remote living while maintaining a focus on delivering exceptional service.
About the Role:
This position offers the chance to become key caretakers of a stunning private estate, ensuring its smooth operation and pristine upkeep. While the estate is a serene retreat, during owner and guest occupancy, the ability to provide impeccable hospitality and high service standards will be essential.
Estate Management:
- Oversee daily operations of the estate, including groundskeeping, property maintenance, gamekeeping, fishing and seasonal preparations.
- Flora and fauna - a consultant visits annually so responsibilities will be minimal but an interest will be of advantage.
- Ensure proper maintenance and care of estate buildings and facilities to a high standard, considering the challenges posed by the remote location.
- Implement systems to track inventory, supplies, and schedules.
- Ensure compliance with local regulations and laws regarding the estate and its operation.
- Regards gamekeeping - experience and qualifications in this area would be a bonus but our client's Estate Ghillie can cover the deer management parts of the role initially and provide training. Attendance to meetings is expected (not least to meet other locals) and our client is the deer group chairman so is very up to speed on the administration side of deer management.
- Regards fishing - no experience/qualifications necessary but a willingness to learn is needed.
Mechanical Engineering:
- Expertise in the operation and maintenance of hydro systems to ensure energy efficiency and sustainability of the estate.
- Management of heating systems, including boilers, underfloor heating, and other renewable energy systems.
- Maintenance of quad bikes, heavy machinery, and the fleet of boats (with both outboard and inboard engines), ensuring all machinery runs safely and efficiently.
- The above is a critical element of the job, we are looking for someone who can take a hands on proactive role with the off grid system and all equipment and this includes record keeping to be able to identify servicing needs and demonstrate that equipment is being maintained. Our client has specialists who carry out repairs and servicing to the off grid system but you will need to fully understand the system to be able to identify issues and effectively liaise with the specialists in order to restore power wherever necessary/possible. You will need to be able to maintain all vehicles and equipment to ensure the safe use and prolonged lifespan. Our client provides specialists if required but you will need to develop necessary skills to undertake the majority of the work 'in house'. Boat servicing (inboard and outboard engines) is a key aspect of this. Training will be provided but eventually being able to carry out the boat servicing work 'in house' is a great benefit.
Boat (78 ft motor) support and assistance:
- Candidates are not required to have prior certification or operational readiness for the boat, as training will be provided for those who express interest. However, it is essential that applicants are comfortable assisting aboard and supporting the Captain. Being at ease on boats and a willingness to develop relevant skills are critical for this role.
- The Estate is only accessible by boat, which means the successful couple will spend significant time traveling up and down the loch (approximately 40 minutes each way). During the winter months, much of this travel will take place in the dark, with conditions that can sometimes be challenging or rough.
Key Responsibilities:
Assisting with crewing.
Stocking kitchen supplies, including cooking or preparing pre-made meals (if applicable).
Supporting the Captain aboard the boat, including cleaning and catering duties.
Managing turnovers, similar to holiday cottage preparation.
Training will be provided for those keen to develop their skills as Captain.
This part of the role(s) requires individuals who are adaptable, capable of handling varying conditions, and eager to embrace life on the water.
Catering and Culinary Expertise:
- The partner responsible for catering will have above-average culinary skills and the ability to prepare meals ranging from simple meals for the estate team to elaborate dishes for guests, (max of 10 guests).
- Experience in managing supplies and inventory to ensure a steady supply of fresh ingredients.
- Ability to cater for specific dietary requirements or special events.
Housekeeping:
- Ensure the estate is maintained to the highest standard of cleanliness, including the main house, guest accommodations, and all relevant estate buildings.
- Supervise and manage housekeeping staff (if applicable) to maintain consistent service standards.
- Knowledge of sustainable and environmentally friendly housekeeping practices in line with the estate's ethos.
Candidate Profile:
The ideal couple will possess the following qualities and experience:
- Technical and Engineering Expertise:
- An understanding and willingness to learn re. mechanical systems, heating systems, and both small and large machinery, including boats with outboard and inboard engines.
- Estate Management Experience:
- Experience in managing large estates or rural properties, with excellent organisational skills.
- Proven ability to manage multiple responsibilities simultaneously and work autonomously.
- Culinary and Hospitality Expertise:
- Chef-level skills with experience in catering to high standards in both family-style and formal event settings.
- Strong communication skills to engage with guests and estate staff, ensuring smooth operations.
- Attention to Detail and High Standards:
- A strong sense of responsibility and a meticulous approach to housekeeping, ensuring that all tasks are carried out to an exceptional standard.
- Ability to anticipate the needs of the estate owners, guests, and staff, and address them efficiently.
- Interpersonal and Adaptability Skills:
- Comfortable working in a remote, isolated environment with limited access to amenities.
- Ability to live and work harmoniously together as a couple, each taking on their respective responsibilities while supporting each other’s work.
- Competitive salary and housing on-site is provided with an immediate start date.
- Additional seasonal staff are hired as required - to assist with management of the Estate / Housekeeping.
- This unique role combines the rewards of remote, countryside living with the satisfaction of playing a pivotal role in creating unforgettable experiences for owners and guests.
If you’re ready to embark on this extraordinary lifestyle and take your expertise and enthusiasm to a remarkable estate, we’d love to hear from you!