View of the Handa cliffs on the Handa Island Wildlife Reserve. (Image: Steve Gardner / SWT / SWNS)
A remote island with no residents is seeking a “manager” – with accommodation provided and a salary of £25k per year.
The Scottish Wildlife Trust is seeking a ranger on the island of Handa, home to one of the most important seabird breeding colonies in Europe.
Nestled off Scotland’s west coast, the isolated Handa Island is one of Europe’s most important seabird breeding sanctuaries. It boasts breathtaking cliffs and can be accessed by an on-demand foot ferry from Tarbet.
Accommodation will be available throughout the contract period, and the position is open to couples wanting to cohabitate and jointly carry out the role.
The setup will include a weekly run to the secluded Scourie village on the mainland for essentials like banking, laundry and shopping.
View of guillemots on the Handa Island Wildlife Reserve. (Image: Steve Gardner / SWT / SWNS)
According to the job advert, the Handa Island Ranger would “effectively manage” the gorgeous, remote island.
The ideal candidate will organise work schemes and a team of volunteers, oversee Handa’s wildlife protection, and cater to its influx of 8,000 annual visitors.
As Handa has no permanent residents, this unique opportunity is ideal for those who relish solitude away from the chaos of city life.
No formal qualifications are required, although expertise in marine and terrestrial ecology is advantageous. Applicants must have a current driving license and access to a vehicle.
View of guillemots and puffins on the Handa Island Wildlife Reserve. (Image: Steve Gardner / SWT / SWNS)
This fixed-term post begins in March and offers a rewarding salary of £25,000.
“The Trust is a passionate employer, proactive about creating a culture of diversity and inclusive workplace that promotes and values equal opportunities for all,” the job advertisement says.
“We welcome individuals from all networks of life, backgrounds, and experiences.
“Handa is a globally recognised breeding site for birds such as guillemots, razorbills, and great skuas.”
“It offers stunning views of the north-west coast of Scotland and it’s characteristic Torridonian sandstone mountains.”
“The island’s dramatic cliffs offer spectacular sea views and the chance to spot marine species like minke whales, bottlenose and Risso’s dolphins, grey seals, and even orcas and basking sharks off the west coast.”
The closing date for applications is 8 January, with interviews taking place around 16 January.