This is not simply a ranch manager position focused solely on cattle production. The successful candidate will serve as a key operational leader responsible for overseeing multiple aspects of a growing ranch enterprise while working closely with ownership to provide leadership, stability, accountability, and long-term operational direction.

The operation consists of a sizeable cow-calf enterprise, hay production program, horse operation, and several complementary agricultural business enterprises. Ownership is seeking a mature, experienced professional capable of managing day-to-day operations while helping position the ranch for future growth and long-term success.

This position is best suited for an experienced ranch management professional who is capable of leading both people and operations while serving as a trusted advisor to ownership. The successful candidate will be expected to provide hands-on leadership, develop employees, oversee ranch resources, and implement systems that improve operational efficiency and long-term stability.

Primary Responsibilities

Ranch Leadership & Administration

• Provide overall leadership and direction for daily ranch operations.
• Work closely with ownership to establish priorities, goals, budgets, and operational plans.
• Implement systems and procedures that improve efficiency and accountability.
• Assist ownership in strategic planning and long-term operational development.
• Maintain strong communication between ownership and ranch personnel.

Livestock Operations

• Oversee all aspects of a sizeable cow-calf operation.
• Manage breeding, calving, herd health, grazing programs, shipping, receiving, and winter feeding activities.
• Coordinate veterinary services, nutrition programs, and herd improvement efforts.
• Ensure livestock performance and animal welfare standards are maintained.

Range, Forage & Grazing Management

• Manage pasture resources and seasonal grazing programs.
• Monitor forage conditions, water availability, and overall range health.
• Coordinate livestock movement and grazing utilization plans.
• Maintain fencing, water systems, and grazing infrastructure.

Hay Production & Feed Management

• Oversee forage production and harvest activities.
• Coordinate irrigation operations and water management.
• Manage feed inventories and winter feeding requirements.
• Supervise seasonal equipment use and maintenance related to hay production.

Personnel Management

• Recruit, supervise, train, and evaluate ranch employees.
• Establish clear expectations and performance standards.
• Develop younger employees and build a strong operational team.
• Foster a positive, professional, and productive workplace culture.

Equipment & Facility Oversight

• Oversee maintenance and care of ranch equipment, vehicles, buildings, corrals, fences, and infrastructure.
• Coordinate preventative maintenance programs.
• Assist with capital improvement planning and equipment replacement schedules.
• Ensure safe operation of equipment and facilities.

Business & Enterprise Coordination

• Support additional ranch-related enterprises as needed.
• Coordinate resources, staffing, and scheduling across multiple operational areas.
• Assist ownership in evaluating opportunities for operational improvements and future growth.

Desired Qualifications

• Extensive ranch management experience with demonstrated leadership responsibilities.
• Strong cow-calf production background.
• Experience with grazing management, forage production, and hay operations.
• Proven ability to manage employees and lead teams.
• Practical mechanical aptitude and equipment management experience.
• Strong organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to balance hands-on responsibilities with management and administrative duties.
• Stable employment history with demonstrated long-term commitment.
• Experience working directly with ownership or family-operated businesses is highly desirable.

Preferred Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate will be a seasoned ranch professional who has successfully managed complex ranch operations and enjoys mentoring employees while developing efficient systems and procedures. This individual should be equally comfortable making management decisions, leading people, overseeing livestock programs, and stepping in when necessary to help complete day-to-day operational tasks.

Candidates with backgrounds as Ranch General Managers, Senior Ranch Managers, Directors of Ranch Operations, or leaders of large cow-calf and diversified ranch enterprises are encouraged to apply.

Personal Characteristics

• Honest, dependable, and trustworthy.
• Strong leader with a servant-leadership mindset.
• Self-motivated and capable of working independently.
• Calm, professional, and solutions-oriented.
• Team-builder who earns respect through leadership and example.
• Long-term career minded and committed to operational excellence.

Compensation

Competitive salary and benefits package commensurate with experience and qualifications. Housing, utilities, ranch vehicle, and additional benefits may be included depending upon the successful candidate's background and needs.

Position Highlights

• Senior leadership role with significant autonomy and decision-making authority.
• Opportunity to work directly with ownership.
• Diverse operation offering variety, challenge, and responsibility.
• Ability to make a lasting impact on the future direction of the operation.
• Long-term opportunity for the right individual seeking stability and career growth.