One island on the north western tip of Scotland is recruiting for its lone permanent resident, offering free housing and £25,600, a year pro rata salary as part of the six-month contract. Set to start in March, the lucky chosen applicant will be the newest ranger for the Scottish Wildlife Trust.
The entirety of Handa Island is managed by the trust and while there are no permanent humans around, it does boost 8,000 visitors over the year that come to experience the jaw-dropping landscapes and spot the thousands of birds, whales and dolphins. A small team of volunteers will also be around to help the chosen ranger.
Because of this, the job advert does specify only people comfortable in “highly sociable” environments should apply, so those looking to trade city life for natural solitude should look elsewhere. They’ll also have to be comfortable working with animals and the environment as they’ll effectively be managing the island according to the Scottish Daily Express. However the only official qualification required is a current driving licence and access to a vehicle.
The role can also be split for a job-share couple or friends to move to the remote island. However, there are some downsides to being surrounded by natural beauty only – laundry, shopping and exchanging gas bottles can only be done on a weekly basis in the nearby remote village of Scourie.
While it may seem like a fantastic six-month break for some, the ranger’s work cannot be understated as they’ll need to monitor the local seabird population, maintain buildings and be responsible for general health and safety on the island. The first responsibility is arguably top priority as the island boasts one of Europe’s most significant seabird breeding colonies.
The island can be reached by a pedestrian ferry from nearby Tarbet, roughly three miles north of Scourie, with a free public car park at the pier. It is known for its stunning natural landscapes including seaside sandstone cliffs standing 400 feet above the sea for a dramatic view of the local minke whales, bottlenose and Risso’s dolphins, grey seals, the occasional orca and even otters.
Puffins are the main attraction for some of the island’s thousands of annual visitors. Applications closed last night and interviews are set to take place next week.