Jobs

JOB PURPOSE

The role of Ranger Apprentice is a fantastic opportunity for a young person to learn, train and experience real work in a professional conservation and estate management environment. We take great pride in looking after the crofting cultural landscape and associated natural and cultural heritage. Working with our resident communities you will help to protect beautiful places for people to engage with. You will be involved with public engagement and visitor management which is an essential part of the management of the estate. The Ranger Apprentice will create positive and memorable engagements. You’ll help us maximise our impact through excellent customer service and site knowledge, taking pride in presentation and communication.

You will work as part of the professional team at Balmacara to help give residents and visitors a positive experience and warm welcome to the estate as well as helping generate the income that enables us to care for our properties.

The Apprentice will also study for a Modern Apprenticeship (SVQ in Estate Management at SCQF Level 6) with Rural Skills Scotland.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES AND ACCOUNTABILITIES

You will take direction from the Property Manager, with the Estate Ranger providing day -to-day supervision. You will also work alongside other property staff. The apprenticeship will be run in partnership with Rural Skills Scotland, who will support the successful candidate through their SVQ undertaking regular observations to allow the apprentice to meet the necessary evidence requirements. The apprenticeship is for a fixed period of 18 months during which the successful candidate will be mentored and undertake relevant vocational training.

You will provide a consistently high standard of work and customer care at all times:
 Promoting and supporting the crofting system on the estate and assisting with the conservation of species-rich grasslands and native woodland on the estate
 Assisting with survey and monitoring programmes
 Maintenance of the fabric of the estate with emphasis on footpaths and other access infrastructure
 Providing excellent visitor experiences including delivery of guided walks, events and educational activities, answering visitors’ queries about the estate and the wider area of Lochalsh, Skye & Wester Ross
 Promoting the National Trust for Scotland and the benefits of Trust membership
 Always maintain excellent standards of site and personal presentation
 Ensuring work is undertaken in a safe and appropriate manner, wearing correct uniform, name badges, or PPE as required
SCOPE OF JOB

Conservation
• Supporting the property team in delivery of priority conservation actions including survey & monitoring, habitat and species management and protection of the cultural heritage of the area

Estate Management & Maintenance
• Working with colleagues, volunteers and contractors to ensure all aspects of the property are properly maintained and projects are delivered on time and within budget.

Public Engagement
 Regular interaction with all members of the public to promote the work of the NTS, especially at Balmacara Estate.

Teamwork
 Regular interaction with employee and volunteer colleagues to share daily tasks and support efficient operations.

Operational & Administrative Processes
 Help achieve activities targets and membership recruitment targets.
 Conform to standard NTS policies and administrative and operational procedures.

Health, Safety & Environment
 Expected to become familiar with and comply with the property’s Health and Safety policies.
 Occasional operation and maintenance of tools, equipment and possible use/application of chemicals (formal training will be provided as required).

The current duties of this job do require a criminal records (Disclosure Scotland) check to be carried out.

Application Deadline: Friday 27/03/2026