River Ghillie & Estate Steward
(Full-Time, On-Site)
Location
Kilchoan Estate, Knoydart Peninsula, Scotland
Reports to
Estate Manager
Overview
Kilchoan is a remote, privately run estate offering a small number of guest stays focused on nature, simplicity, and thoughtful hospitality. We are seeking an experienced, guest facing River Ghillie & Estate Steward to lead guest fishing excursions and assisting with the general maintenance and upkeep of the estate.
This is a hands-on role suited to someone with strong river fishing experience who enjoys variety, takes pride in being helpful, and is comfortable stepping in wherever needed across the estate to support both guests and the wider team.
Key Responsibilities
River Ghillie & Guest Experience
• Lead and host guided river fishing experiences for guests, delivering a safe, enjoyable, and highly personalised experience
• Share expert knowledge of the estate's rivers, wildlife, landscape, and local heritage
• Tailor fishing days and outdoor experiences to individual guest interests, abilities, and expectations
• Prepare and maintain all fishing equipment, ensuring it is presented to the highest standard at all times
• Monitor river conditions and fishing activity, maintaining appropriate records where required
• Promote responsible fishing practices and uphold all relevant regulations and estate policies
• Build positive and professional relationships with guests, providing attentive and discreet service throughout their stay
Estate Presentation & Maintenance
• Maintain the estate, guest accommodation, river infrastructure, and surrounding grounds to an exceptional standard
• Undertake routine inspections and proactively identify maintenance requirements, ensuring issues are resolved promptly and efficiently
• Carry out a broad range of practical maintenance tasks including painting, joinery, fencing, landscaping, and minor repairs
• Assist in the upkeep of estate roads, tracks, footpaths, bridges, signage, and outdoor facilities
• Maintain workshops, tools, equipment, and storage areas in a safe, organised, and professional manner
Support contractors and specialist tradespeople undertaking works on the estate when required
• Contribute to the overall presentation of the estate, ensuring buildings, grounds, and guest-facing areas consistently reflect the highest standards
Estate Operations
• Assist with seasonal estate projects, sporting activities, and wider operational requirements as required
• Support guest arrivals, departures, luggage handling, and activity preparation when needed
• Work closely with both the General Manager and Estate Manager as well as the wider estate team to ensure the seamless delivery of guest stays and estate operations
• Respond flexibly to changing priorities and guest requirements, demonstrating initiative and sound judgement
• Maintain high standards of confidentiality, professionalism, and discretion at all times
• Ensure compliance with health and safety procedures and contribute to a safe environment for guests, staff, and contractors
Skills & Experience
• Significant experience as a river ghillie, fishing guide, or in a similar sporting estate environment
• Excellent knowledge of salmon and trout fishing, river management, and safe fishing practices
• Strong practical maintenance skills and experience across a range of estate or property maintenance disciplines
• Natural hospitality skills with experience in guest-facing environments
• Ability to communicate confidently and professionally with a wide range of guests and stakeholders
• Highly organised, self-motivated, and able to work independently
• Strong attention to detail and pride in maintaining exceptionally high standards
• Physically fit and comfortable working outdoors throughout the year
• Full UK driving licence
Working Conditions
• Full-time position (hours to be agreed in line with the Working Time Regulations 1998)
• Some flexibility required depending on guest schedules and operational needs
• This is an on-site position based on the Knoydart Peninsula. Due to the remote nature of the estate, suitable accommodation may be available by separate arrangement, subject to discussion and operational requirements.
Employment Details
• Holiday entitlement in line with UK statutory requirements
• All employment subject to the right to work in the UK
• Position offered in accordance with UK employment law and health & safety regulation
Personal Attributes
• Calm, dependable, and service-minded
• Comfortable in a remote, rural environment
• Happy to be part of a small team where roles occasionally overlap
• Discreet and professional, with respect for guest privacy.
Please apply to ibiggart@duntondestinations.com
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