Hostel Manager - Cairngorm Lodge YH

Contract: Fixed Term Contract, Provisional start 09/Mar/2026 until 01/Nov/2026

Hours Per Week: 40 hpw during summer season - Opportunity for winter hours – Will be discussed at interview

Accommodation: Live-in accommodation available (

Note:

a small weekly utility levy applies.)

Are you passionate about running a youth hostel and sharing the real Scotland with guests? Do you want to enjoy the great outdoors and take advantage of hillwalking, climbing, and other activities right on your doorstep? At Cairngorm Lodge Youth Hostel, you’ll have the opportunity to experience this while helping others discover Scotland.

As part of Hostelling Scotland, a non-profit charity, you'll be contributing to our mission of providing affordable breaks for those who need it most, while also supporting youth programs aimed at developing life, learning, and work skills.

We’re looking for a self-motivated, enthusiastic individual to manage Cairngorm Lodge Youth Hostel, located in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park with stunning views over the Corries. A car is recommended, as we are in a remote location. The area offers fantastic hillwalking, wild swimming, road and mountain biking adventures, and more.

You’ll be part of a small team, often working independently, so this role is ideal for someone who thrives in such environments. Some catering experience would be beneficial, as we cater for in-house guests and takeaways, always striving to deliver high-quality food and meet budgetary targets while maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness and hygiene.

As Hostel Manager, you will report to the Operations Manager and be responsible for:

• Managing the day-to-day operations of the hostel, ensuring smooth business management.
• Delivering excellent customer service by maintaining a welcoming, clean, safe, and accessible environment for guests.
• Enhancing guest experiences and addressing feedback professionally.
• Ensuring health, safety, and security standards are met for both guests and staff at all times.
• Implementing operational plans, risk assessments, policies, and procedures to achieve Hostelling Scotland’s charitable goals and kpi’s.

• Proven experience in a customer-facing role, with experience managing a small team in a similar hospitality setting (or similar).
• A commitment to providing excellent customer service.
• Strong communication skills (both verbal and written) and the ability to engage with people at all levels.
• A solid understanding of health and safety at work, with practical experience in monitoring and improving best practices.
• Business acumen, including financial and budget management experience.
• A strong understanding of data protection protocols.
• Understanding of hostel asset management and managing contracts/contractors.
• Flexibility and adaptability, with shift work, particularly during busy periods.

• You must be able to present evidence of your right to work in the UK prior to start with us.
• You will also need to provide two satisfactory references and apply for a Basic Disclosure.

We do reserve the right to close this advertisement early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.