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.