He was ordained a deacon in 1763 and a priest in 1764. His first pastoral appointment was as the Incumbent of Ellon and Udny (1764–1775), and then the Incumbent of Aberdeen (1775–1816), a post he held until his death. Skinner was appointed coadjutor bishop of Aberdeen and consecrated on 25 September 1782 by bishops Kilgour, Rose and Petrie.
He began his ministry as a deacon in 1763 and became a priest in 1764. His first pastoral role was at Ellon and Udny (1764–1775), followed by Aberdeen (1775–1816). He held this position until his death. Skinner was appointed coadjutor bishop of Aberdeen and consecrated on September 25, 1782, by bishops Kilgour, Rose, and Petrie.