Canal Associates

Job Information

Salary: £12.60 (£13.45 from 1 April 2026)

Closing Date: 06/02/2026

Department: Operations

Location: Inverness

Hours Per Week: Various

Join Our Team on the Caledonian Canal! Looking for a role that’s as rewarding as it is unique? Scottish Canals is hiring Seasonal Canal Associates at various locations throughout the Caledonian Canal to help keep one of Scotland’s most stunning waterways running smoothly. This is your chance to work outdoors, enjoy spectacular scenery, and meet people from all over the world.

Every day brings something different—whether you’re assisting boaters, operating locks, or simply soaking up the beauty of the Highlands. We’ll provide full training, uniform, PPE, and a company mobile phone, so you’re ready to hit the ground running. This role is based between Clachnaharry and Dochgarroch Locks
, offering an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Great Glen.

• Deliver excellent customer service to boating clients.
• Operate lock gates, bridges, and manage water levels.
• Perform vegetation management using mowers, strimmers, and other equipment.
• Carry out minor maintenance using hand tools as required.
• Complete manual and maintenance tasks in line with health and safety standards.
• Represent and promote the organisation positively.

• Experience in customer service or outdoor operational work.
• Basic DIY and maintenance ability.
• Strong communication skills for effective teamwork and public interaction.
• Basic literacy, numeracy, and computer skills (e.g., email).
• Full driving licence preferred but not essential.

• Hourly rate: £12.60 (£13.45 from 1 April 2026) plus 12.07% holiday pay.
• Rolling rota includes weekends and bank holidays.
• This is a seasonal role with full-time and part-time hours available.
• Contract period: 18 March – 1 November 2026.

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