North Wales jobs in Corwen

Rhug Estate Organic Farm is seeking an experienced, dedicated and skilled Shepherd to join our established farming team and play an important role in the day-to-day management of our 3,500-ewe organic sheep enterprise.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced shepherd to join a progressive and well-established organic farm, working alongside another shepherd and as part of the wider farm team. The role is focused primarily on high standards of stockmanship and sheep husbandry, with opportunities to assist across the wider farming operation when required.

About the Role

Working alongside our existing shepherd and the wider farm team, you will be responsible for the day-to-day care, welfare and management of the flock throughout the year.

The successful candidate will be an experienced stockperson with a strong understanding of sheep husbandry, good working dogs and a practical, team-focused approach to farming.

This is a hands-on role with no formal staff management responsibilities, although the successful candidate will be expected to take responsibility for their own work, livestock and allocated tasks, and work collaboratively with the wider farming team.

Key Responsibilities

• Carry out all aspects of day-to-day sheep husbandry across a flock of approximately 3,500 ewes
• Maintain high standards of livestock welfare, health and stockmanship
• Assist with key seasonal activities including tupping, lambing, lamb selection, weaning and drafting
• Monitor flock health and condition and identify and respond appropriately to any livestock health or welfare concerns
• Carry out routine treatments and maintain accurate livestock and medicine records
• Participate in a Saturday working rota, with Saturdays worked approximately 1 in 3
• Assist with grassland management and rotational grazing systems
• Monitor grazing, forage availability and livestock performance
• Maintain high standards of biosecurity and farm safety
• Ensure sheep handling equipment, fencing and livestock areas are maintained to a high standard
• Work closely with the Estate’s other shepherd and wider farm team to ensure the efficient running of the farm
• Assist with general farm duties and livestock work across the wider farming enterprise when required
• Operate farm machinery and equipment safely and competently where required
• Contribute to maintaining and developing the farm's organic livestock systems

Requirements

• Proven experience working as a shepherd, ideally within a larger commercial flock
• Strong practical knowledge of sheep husbandry and livestock management
• A minimum of one capable, well-trained working dog
• High standards of stockmanship and attention to detail
• Good understanding of livestock health, welfare and husbandry
• Experience with lambing and other key seasonal sheep work
• Ability to work independently while also being an effective member of a wider farming team
• Good communication skills
• Basic record keeping and IT skills
• Full UK driving licence
• Experience of organic farming systems is desirable, although training and support can be provided
• A willingness to assist with general farm work when required

What We Offer

• Competitive salary based on experience
• Accommodation available if required
• Dog allowance (paid up to 4 dogs)
• 32 days annual leave, including bank holidays
• Supportive team environment
• Long-term role stability within a progressive farming business
• Excellent livestock handling facilities
• Training and professional development where appropriate

About Rhug Estate

Rhug Estate Organic Farm is a progressive mixed farming enterprise based in Corwen, North Wales. Our organic sheep enterprise consists of approximately 3,500 ewes, with a strong focus on high standards of animal welfare, sustainable farming and producing high-quality organic lamb.

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to become an important part of an established farming team and contribute to the continued development of the sheep enterprise and wider farm.

How to Apply

Please send your CV and a brief cover letter to: kathryntatham@rhug.co.uk

Closing date is the 5th October with interviews to take place the following week

Pay: £35,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Free parking
• Housing allowance
• On-site parking
• Store discount

Work Location: In person