Senior Stalker

Senior Stalker | Forest Lodge Beat of Atholl Estates

Join us at Atholl Estates
Are you an enthusiastic and experienced hill stalker who would enjoy leading implementation of land
management on Atholl’s famous beat of Forest Lodge? While the core of this role remains management of the
wild red deer herd and habitat for red grouse, you will also be part of a fascinating period of change as the estate’s
land management objectives evolve towards measures that improve biodiversity and address climate change.

There is a three-bedroom dwelling that accompanies the role which is adjacent to Forest Lodge.

The Forest of Atholl is renowned for its wild red deer herd. The Senior Stalker position at Forest Lodge is an
opportunity for a progressive individual to play a leading part in the next chapter of this beat’s history.  The wider
estate consists of farming, forestry, hydro energy and property interests as well as significant tourism enterprises.
Whilst the location is rural, the estate is led by on-site ownership and management, while providing a friendly
community atmosphere and we’re only 90 minutes’ drive from any city in Scotland.

Job description
The successful person will be responsible for the effective management of the beat’s wild deer population in line
with  best  practice,  hosting  of  guest  stalking,  care  of  ponies,  habitat  creation,  conservation  and  restoration
activities. An interest in and knowledge of property maintenance is essential.
The role leads the team of Beat Stalker and trainee as well as seasonal ghillies whilst reporting to the Head Stalker.
The wider team consists of five full time stalkers, trainees and seasonal staff.  We are looking for someone who
understands the period of change the sector is in and wants to work with the owners towards a sustainable future.

Deer stalking
The estate is part of the West Grampian Deer Management group and one of five estates working together to
deliver a Strategic Land Management Plan. The group has held a collaborative hind cull in 2024 and 2025 and
demonstrates a good example of effective communication.  A helicopter count is scheduled for March 2026 and
annual culls will be adjusted according to the outcome of this, grazing pressure and recruitment. 80 stags were
culled with guests in 2025, utilising ponies wherever possible.

Grouse
Management of moorland for walked up grouse shooting remains a core part of the Senior Stalker’s role at Forest
Lodge.  The Senior Stalker will be required to safely lead walked up shooting parties and effectively manage habitat
and predator control to sustain viable stocks.

Diversification
Atholl Estates is progressing peatland restoration, riparian planting, habitat restoration and new woodlands while
developing tourism activities outside the traditional stalking season, all of which you will have opportunity to shape
and deliver. An ability to use mobile app technology and/or willingness to learn is essential.

Housekeeping opportunity
Forest Lodge’s rural location means that there is an opportunity for housekeeping support to be provided by the
partner of the Senior Stalker. The minimum requirement for hours is 16 per week, with scope for this to be increased
to a full-time position.

The lodge is a busy traditional 10-bedroom hunting lodge that can accommodate up to 20 guests. The Housekeeper
will be responsible for maintaining a high standard of cleanliness, presentation, and comfort within the estate lodge
for holiday guests and sporting parties.

Applications
Please email your CV and covering letter outlining previous experience and references to
lauram@atholl-estates.co.uk