Underkeeper - Ref 1773 Date: March 31, 2026

Underkeeper (Full Time)

Location

Westerham in Kent

Application deadline

10/04/26

Ideal Start Date

01/05/26

Salary

Competitive and commensurate of experience includes 2 bedroom mobile home central heated and double glazed accommodation.

This non for profit Club operating Game Shooting days on two prestigious Estates in North Kent. Est in 2024 having previously been run as two separate private syndicate shoots the Club now encompasses circa 7,000 acres with shooting taking place over 3,000 of this. Reporting directly to the Head keeper, is now looking to employ an underkeeper.

. Job Title and Duties

You would be employed as an Underkeeper, reporting directly to the Head Keeper and/or Shoot Manager. Your role is based on the Estates and your duties will include, but are not limited to:

- Assisting in the rearing, management, and welfare of gamebirds (e.g., pheasant and partridge & Duck).

- Predator and pest & Deer control in line with current legislation and estate policies.

- Estate maintenance, including pens, fencing, woodland and cover crop management.

- Participation in shoot day preparation, running of days, and clean-up.

- Liaising with beaters, pickers-up, estate residents, and guests.

- Operating vehicles and machinery as required.

- Any other reasonable duties related to the operation of the shoot or general estate gamekeeping.

2. Commencement and Probation

Your employment would commence on 1st May 2026

A probationary period of 6 months will apply, during which either party may terminate employment with one week’s written notice.

Successful completion of the probation period will be confirmed in writing.

3. Place of Work

Your primary place of work is on the Estates (Kent), but you may be required to work at other locations in connection with the business .

4. Hours of Work

Given the nature of the Job you will be required to work the hours necessary to conduct the role , including but not limited to early mornings, weekends, and public holidays, particularly during the shooting season.

Flexibility is essential due to the nature of the role. Reasonable overtime may be expected and will be given time off in lieu.

5. Remuneration

You will receive a salary payable monthly in arrears by BACS into your nominated account.

Salary will be reviewed annually but without guarantee of increase.

6. Accommodation

You will be provided with mobile home accommodation on the estate for the performance of your duties.

The property must be vacated on termination of employment.

You will be responsible for utilities, unless stated otherwise in writing.

The accommodation is strictly non-transferable and must not be sub-let.

7. Holidays

You are entitled to 25 days’ paid holiday per year, inclusive of public holidays. Leave must be approved in advance, and time off during the shooting season (typically 1 October – 1 February) is restricted.

8. Sickness and Absence

You must notify the Employer as soon as possible if you are unable to work due to illness or injury.

You may be eligible for Statutory Sick Pay (SSP), subject to meeting legal requirements. Medical certificates may be required for absences of more than 7 days.

9. Firearms, Licensing & driving

Due to the nature of this role, you must possess and maintain a valid Shotgun Certificate and/or Firearm Certificate under the Firearms Act 1968.

You are responsible for the safe use, handling, and storage of any firearms, ammunition, or traps in accordance with legal requirements and estate policy.

A copy of your valid certificate(s) must be provided to the Employer and kept up to date.

You must notify the Employer immediately if your certificate is lost, suspended, revoked, or expires. You must also possess and maintain a full driving License.

Any failure to hold the necessary certification or License may result in suspension or termination of your employment.

10. Termination of Employment

Following the probation period, either party may terminate employment with [e.g. one month’s] written notice.

The Employer reserves the right to terminate your employment without notice in cases of gross misconduct, including but not limited to misuse of firearms, theft, or serious negligence.

11. Confidentiality

You must not disclose any confidential information relating to the operations, members, guests, or landowners of the Club or Estates during or after your employment.

12. Health and Safety

You must adhere to all relevant health and safety regulations and estate rules.

PPE and training will be provided as necessary.

You are responsible for reporting hazards or unsafe practices immediately.

13. Tools and Equipment

The Employer will provide necessary tools, clothing, and equipment. You must ensure these are used responsibly and maintained in good condition. Loss or damage must be reported without delay.

14. Conduct and Behaviour

You are expected to act professionally and courteously at all times.

Any behaviour that brings the Employer, Club, or Estates into disrepute may result in disciplinary action.

You must comply with estate rules, countryside law, and gamekeeping best practice at all times.

Full clean driving license

Shotgun and Firearms License

Rodent Poison certificate

Chainsaw Certificate

Quad Driving Certificate

Ideally the ability & knowledge to drive a tractor

For a full job description or to apply please Email mail@ruralrecruits.co.uk including a full CV and copies of qualifications and a covering letter