UPDATE: The Scottish Wildlife Trust has just announced a unique job opportunity for a seasonal ranger on the breathtaking Handa Island, a remote wildlife haven off the north west Highlands of Scotland. The successful candidate will live and work in this stunning location for six months, starting on March 16, 2026, with a salary of £26,112 and free accommodation.
This role, which runs from March to September, offers a chance to manage one of Scotland’s most spectacular wildlife sites, where tens of thousands of seabirds, including puffins and guillemots, arrive each spring to breed on the island’s dramatic cliffs. Handa Island is uninhabited since the 19th century, providing an undisturbed environment for wildlife to thrive.
However, the position comes with its challenges. The ranger will need to make regular trips back to the mainland, including weekly journeys to Scourie for essentials like laundry, food shopping, and banking. A driving license and access to a vehicle are essential for this role.
Rab Potter, the reserves area manager at the Scottish Wildlife Trust, emphasized the importance of a strong understanding of wildlife and excellent people skills. “Handa is an isolated location, and the people you work with will also be the people you socialize with in the evening, so it needs to be someone that’s comfortable with communal living,” he stated.
The ranger will be responsible for monitoring wildlife populations, organizing and leading volunteers, and managing over 8,000 visitors during the peak summer season. The job is physically demanding yet highly rewarding, making it ideal for individuals passionate about outdoor work in a remote setting.
Accommodation will be provided free of charge in a purpose-built ranger’s bothy, suitable for one individual. The position is full-time, requiring 35 hours per week, making it a great opportunity for anyone looking to immerse themselves in nature while contributing to conservation efforts.
Candidates must possess emotional resilience, strong organizational skills, and the ability to adapt plans quickly. Experience in seabird monitoring and knowledge of marine and terrestrial natural history are required. Familiarity with Handa Island is an advantage but not essential.
Applications close at noon on January 7, 2026, with interviews set for January 16. The Scottish Wildlife Trust encourages applicants from all backgrounds and is committed to promoting diversity and equal opportunities.
This job not only offers a chance to work in a unique setting but also contributes to vital conservation efforts. Share this opportunity with anyone who might be interested in this incredible role on Handa Island!
