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Cattle Cowboy Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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The Feeder Cattle Cowboy is responsible for daily cattle observation, handling, and care within the feeder cattle operation. This is a hands-on field position requiring strong stockmanship, attention ...

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The Feeder Cattle Cowboy is responsible for daily cattle observation, handling, and care within the feeder cattle operation. This is a hands-on field position requiring strong stockmanship, attention ...

Deseret Cattle & Citrus is seeking reliable Cowboys to join our local ranch team! Summary: The Cowboy I is responsible for supporting day-to-day livestock operations under direct supervision. This ...

Cattle Manager and/or Head Cowboy (where applicable) FLSA STATUS: Hourly, Ag Exempt FUNCTION: Monitoring and movement of livestock in Feedlot by performing the following duties. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND ...

Cattle Manager and/or Head Cowboy (where applicable) FLSA STATUS: Hourly, Ag Exempt FUNCTION: Monitoring and movement of livestock in Feedlot by performing the following duties. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND ...

Pen Rider (24928)

Coalinga, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $22/hr

The Pen Rider will move, sort, and pull cattle that require treatment throughout the feedlot on horseback. Reports to: Cowboy Assistant Supervisor and Cowboy Supervisor. Duties/Responsibilities:

Cattle Manager and/or Head Cowboy (where applicable) FLSA STATUS: Hourly, Ag Exempt FUNCTION: Monitoring and movement of livestock in Feedlot by performing the following duties. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND ...

Pen Rider

Lamar, CO · On-site

Cattle Manager and/or Head Cowboy (where applicable) FLSA STATUS: Hourly, Ag Exempt FUNCTION: Monitoring and movement of livestock in Feedlot by performing the following duties. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND ...

Cattle Manager and/or Head Cowboy (where applicable) FLSA STATUS: Hourly, Ag Exempt FUNCTION: Monitoring and movement of livestock in Feedlot by performing the following duties. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND ...

The Pen Rider will move, sort, and pull cattle that require treatment throughout the feedlot on horseback.Reports to: Cowboy Assistant Supervisor and Cowboy Supervisor. Duties/Responsibilities:

Cattle Manager and/or Head Cowboy (where applicable) FLSA STATUS: Hourly, Ag Exempt FUNCTION: Monitoring and movement of livestock in Feedlot by performing the following duties. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND ...

Pen Rider

Lamar, CO · On-site

Cattle Manager and/or Head Cowboy (where applicable) FLSA STATUS: Hourly, Ag Exempt FUNCTION: Monitoring and movement of livestock in Feedlot by performing the following duties. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND ...

Cattle Manager and/or Head Cowboy (where applicable) FLSA STATUS: Hourly, Ag Exempt FUNCTION: Monitoring and movement of livestock in Feedlot by performing the following duties. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND ...

Pen Rider

Yuma, CO · On-site

Cattle Manager and/or Head Cowboy (where applicable) FLSA STATUS: Hourly, Ag Exempt FUNCTION: Monitoring and movement of livestock in Feedlot by performing the following duties. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND ...

Cattle Manager and/or Head Cowboy (where applicable) FLSA STATUS: Hourly, Ag Exempt FUNCTION: Monitoring and movement of livestock in Feedlot by performing the following duties. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND ...

Cattle Manager and/or Head Cowboy (where applicable) FLSA STATUS: Hourly, Ag Exempt FUNCTION: Monitoring and movement of livestock in Feedlot by performing the following duties. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND ...

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Cattle Cowboy information

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How much do cattle cowboy jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for cattle cowboy in the United States is $20.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cattle cowboy?

Cattle cowboys are skilled workers who manage and care for cattle, typically on ranches or large farms. Their duties include herding, feeding, branding, and monitoring the health of the animals, as well as maintaining fences and equipment. Cowboys often work long hours outdoors and use horses or ATVs to move herds across pastures. The role is essential to livestock operations and is a vital part of the ranching industry in many regions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cattle cowboy, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Cattle Cowboy, you need a solid understanding of livestock handling, animal husbandry, and basic veterinary care, often gained through hands-on experience or agricultural training. Familiarity with ranch equipment, horses, ATVs, and sometimes GPS systems is also important for daily operations. Strong work ethic, resilience, and effective communication are vital soft skills for managing livestock and collaborating with team members. These skills are essential for ensuring cattle health, operational efficiency, and safety in often challenging outdoor environments.

What are the typical challenges faced by a cattle cowboy during seasonal changes, and how can they prepare for them?

Cattle Cowboys often encounter unique challenges during seasonal changes, such as managing herd health during extreme weather, ensuring cattle have access to adequate food and water, and adapting to shifting grazing patterns. In the winter, harsh conditions may require extra feeding and shelter, while in the summer, heat stress and water scarcity can be concerns. To prepare, Cowboys monitor weather forecasts, maintain equipment, and coordinate closely with ranch managers and veterinarians to develop contingency plans. Staying adaptable and proactive is key to successfully navigating these seasonal hurdles.

What is the difference between Cattle Cowboy vs Ranch Hand?

AspectCattle CowboyRanch Hand
CredentialsNone required, experience preferredNone required, experience preferred
Work EnvironmentOpen range, ranches, farmsOpen range, ranches, farms
Industry UsagePrimarily in cattle herding and ranchingGeneral farm and ranch work, including cattle

Both Cattle Cowboys and Ranch Hands work in ranch environments, often performing similar tasks like herding cattle and maintaining ranch operations. However, Cattle Cowboys typically focus specifically on cattle herding and riding skills, while Ranch Hands may handle a broader range of farm chores. The roles often overlap, but Cattle Cowboys are more specialized in cattle management.

More about Cattle Cowboy jobs

What cities are hiring for Cattle Cowboy jobs?

Cities with the most Cattle Cowboy job openings:

What states have the most Cattle Cowboy jobs?

States with the most job openings for Cattle Cowboy jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Cattle Cowboy jobs?

For Cattle Cowboy jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Cattle Cowboy job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,416 per year, or $20.4 per hour.

Feeder Cattle Ranch Cowboy/Pen Rider

Poplarville, MS • On-site

$55K - $80K/yr

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 9 days ago

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Job description

The Feeder Cattle Cowboy is responsible for daily cattle observation, handling, and care within the feeder cattle operation. This is a hands-on field position requiring strong stockmanship, attention to cattle health, and safe cattle handling practices. The right candidate needs to come with all required knowledge to properly run a feeder cattle farm with little to no training necessary.

This role reports directly to the Feeder Cattle Operations Manager and supports all daily cattle activities to maintain herd health, performance, and facility standards.

Core Responsibilities1. Daily Pen Riding & Cattle Observation

  • Ride pens daily to monitor cattle health and behavior
  • Identify and pull sick or injured cattle promptly
  • Report health concerns to management
  • Observe feed intake, water consumption, and movement patterns
  • Watch for early signs of respiratory or digestive illness

2. Cattle Handling & Processing Support

  • Assist with receiving and processing new cattle
  • Help administer vaccinations and treatments as directed
  • Sort, move, and load cattle safely
  • Work cattle through chutes and working facilities
  • Maintain calm, low-stress handling practices

3. Treatment & Care

  • Administer treatments under direction of management
  • Maintain accurate treatment logs
  • Monitor treated cattle for response and recovery
  • Assist with mortality documentation and disposal procedures

4. Facility & Equipment Maintenance

  • Inspect and maintain fencing and gates
  • Monitor water systems and report issues
  • Keep pens and working areas clean and functional
  • Safely operate ATV, tractor, and ranch equipment

5. Team Support

  • Work alongside other ranch hands and cowboys
  • Follow established cattle health and safety protocols
  • Maintain strong communication with supervisor
  • Promote a safe and professional working environment

Required Skills & Experience

  • Experience working feeder or stocker cattle
  • Strong ability to identify sick cattle
  • Confident horseback riding and cattle handling skills
  • Ability to work in outdoor conditions year-round
  • Strong work ethic and reliability
  • Ability to follow direction and protocol

Physical Requirements

  • Ride horseback or ATV daily
  • Lift 50+ pounds
  • Work long hours during receiving and shipping
  • Work in heat, cold, dust, and wet conditions

Benefits:

  • Paid time off
  • Relocation assistance

Work Location: In person