Jobs on Skye

A large number of visitors to this blog are pondering on the possibility of relocating to live on this most magical of islands. And, yes, for the fortunate few, Skye is just a wonderful place to live. Sadly, there are also many residents who would love to be able to live anywhere but the Isle of Skye - but I guess that is the case no matter where you are in the world, and who you ask.

So - if you are planning a move to live on Skye, how easy is it to get a job?

Obviously, a lot will depend on what you are willing to do, and what skills you have. Incomers most likely to find work will be very adaptable. If, for instance, you will only consider jobs as a chimney sweep or a tyre fitter, then you will probably remain jobless for life. But if you are reasonably personable with all-round abilities, there are certainly opportunities to be had.

There is seasonal work in the hotels, bars and cafes - cooking, cleaning and serving. There are also seasonal opportunities in the various shops on the island - but, for example, to get a job in a wool shop, you'll need to know a lot about wool...!! Much of the seasonal work is part time, and doesn't exist at all in winter.

There are permanent jobs in the businesses that support the tourism industry - anything from a laundry to the Visit Scotland office - but the number of such opportunities is very few. Plus, there are the usual service industries (shops, garages, Council services, etc) needed to support the resident population of about 10,000 people. So occasionally a job arises in these areas. The principal industries on Skye are forestry and fish-farming, so there are occasional opportunities here, too. Most jobs on the island are advertised in the West Highland Free Press, by the way - and the paper is available world-wide by post if you subscribe from their website.

Professional jobs are also very few and far between. Skye has just one secondary school and a few primary schools, but new teaching posts are fiercely fought for. There are two tiny hospitals and a few medical centres with employment for a handful of medical staff. Skye has two solicitors practices, an accountant, a surveyors office, two or three banks... but any jobs that come up in any of these or similar professions are more likely to go to long-time residents rather than freshly arrived incomers.

Of course - you could be self-employed. We probably already have enough builders, plumbers, electricians, roofers, TV aerial fitters, dog groomers and beauticians - but you just might hit on an area where there is a need and no-one to fill it. Do your research, you could get lucky!

Finally - you could buy and run a B&B... but I have tried to put you off that idea before.