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Entry Level Ranch Hand Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Description Ranch Creek Excavation a subsidiary of Devils Thumb Ranch Based in Winter Park ... Operate small equipment and hand tools such as skid steers, mini excavators, trenchers, mowers ...

Construction Laborer

Fraser, CO · On-site

$19 - $24.50/hr

Ranch Creek Excavation a subsidiary of Devils Thumb Ranch Based in Winter Park, Colorado ... Operate small equipment and hand tools such as skid steers, mini excavators, trenchers, mowers ...

While the ranch opens May 5 and closes at the end of October, many of our 100+ staff members work ... Rather than departmentalize, we give our entry-level Guest Services staff the opportunity to work a ...

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Entry level Maintenance position available Flexible work schedule including weekend hours 40hr/week ... Uses equipment, including power tools, hand tools, electric tools, and plumbing tools. * keeps work ...

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Entry Level Ranch Hand information

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$10

$17

$24

How much do entry level ranch hand jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level ranch hand in the United States is $17.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Entry Level Ranch Hand vs Farm Worker?

AspectEntry Level Ranch HandFarm Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; no formal certifications typically requiredHigh school diploma or equivalent; may have basic agricultural training
Work EnvironmentRanches, open fields, livestock areasFarms, fields, crop areas
Employer & IndustryRanching operations, livestock industryAgricultural farms, crop production
Common TasksFeeding animals, fencing, basic maintenancePlanting, harvesting, general farm chores

Both roles involve outdoor work in agricultural settings, but a Ranch Hand typically focuses on livestock care and ranch maintenance, while a Farm Worker often handles crop-related tasks. The skills and environment overlap, making them closely related entry-level positions in agriculture.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level ranch hands, and how can they be overcome?

Entry level ranch hands often face challenges such as adapting to physically demanding work, long hours outdoors in varying weather conditions, and quickly learning new skills like animal care, equipment operation, and basic maintenance. Overcoming these challenges involves staying physically fit, being open to feedback from more experienced team members, and proactively asking questions to clarify tasks. Building strong communication with supervisors and peers also helps create a supportive environment where you can learn and grow more efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Ranch Hand, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Ranch Hand, you need basic knowledge of livestock care, equipment operation, and general farm maintenance, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with tools like tractors, fencing tools, and sometimes basic animal health record systems is typically required. Strong work ethic, reliability, adaptability, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills ensure efficient ranch operations, animal well-being, and safe teamwork in a physically demanding environment.

What are entry level ranch hands?

Entry level ranch hands are workers who assist with the daily operations of a ranch, often performing manual labor such as feeding livestock, cleaning stalls, repairing fences, and maintaining equipment. They typically work under the supervision of more experienced ranch staff and gain hands-on experience in animal care, land management, and ranch maintenance. This position is ideal for individuals interested in agriculture or animal husbandry and looking to start a career in the ranching industry.
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What are the most commonly searched types of Ranch Hand jobs? The most popular types of Ranch Hand jobs are:
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What job categories do people searching Entry Level Ranch Hand jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Ranch Hand jobs are:
Animal Care Associate- Refuge Springfield, Co. Location

Animal Care Associate- Refuge Springfield, Co. Location

The Wild Animal Sanctuary

Springfield, CO

$60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Animal Care Associate -Refuge Springfield, Co.

*Must reside in the Lamar, Co, La Junta, Co, Springfield, Co, Pritchett, Co. AREA


Location: Springfield, CO. 81073

Status: Exempt Full-Time - Entry Level

Salary: Annual- Starting at $60,000

Primary Function: Ranch Hand Laborer/Feeding/Driving/Animal Care Operation

Direct Supervisor:Executive Director

Open: Until-Filled

Benefits: After a 60 Day Probationary Period Medical, Dental, and Vision is offered

Organization Overview:

Our Non-Profit Organization has a positive mission and team environment!

If you have you have a strong work ethic, a passion to contribute to a great cause, and experience with grounds maintenance, then apply for our Operations Associate position today.


The Wild Animal Refuge is a place where motivated individuals can immerse themselves into a dedicated community, working side by side to provide a safe-haven for rescued animals to live out the rest of their lives with dignity and respect. We are located on 10,000 acres near Springfield, CO. 81073. What a great opportunity to work for a cause!

We are so much more than a workplace. We are a team committed to service, to bettering our communities, and the world.

Job Summary:

Ranch Hand Laborer 20% Feeding/Animal Care Operation 50% Driving 10%

Perform other Job Duties as assigned 20%

With the guidance and under supervision of the Executive Director and Animal Care Supervisor, the Animal Care Associate will execute day to day functions regarding animals, feeding, water haul, food haul, diet and nutrition, driving around property with supplies, perform all duties in a safe manner while following company protocol, custodial, sustainability, and long-term equipment care. Perform other related job duties as assigned.

Minimum Job Requirements:

  • 1-2 years of work Ranch Hand work experience or in related field preferred
  • High School Diploma or Equivalent
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Valid Colorado Drivers License
  • Own vehicle for transportation to and from work

Required/Other Qualifications:

  • Have a satisfactory driving record
  • Lives locally (No on-site provisions)
  • Reliable source of transportation to and from work
    Solid understanding in field operations
    Ability to liaise with other departments to achieve a common goal
  • Able to lift 75lbs or more

Functions/Job Duties:(including but not limited to):

  • Exercising sound independent judgement within general policy guidelines
  • Perform routine animal care
  • Able to lift 75lbs or more, physical abilities needed to complete the job: lifting and carrying heavy materials such as; furniture, equipment, and tools. Some tasks involve; climbing, crawling, and stooping to reach. Need to be able to; pull, push or manipulate heavy objects against resistance, work outdoors in temperature extremes and inclement weather. This work is performed in outdoors, inclement weather, heat of the summer, and Carnivore Nutrition Center/Shop
  • Performing seasonal cleaning and/or routine light maintenance
    Able to maintain confidentiality; demonstrates sound judgement and discretion


Personal Characteristics:

  • Self-motivated, productive, and results-oriented
  • Keeping an organized and tidy workspace
  • Flexible, ability to adapt to change and shifting priorities and to work simultaneously on a variety of complex projects
  • Teamwork orientated with ability to work independently
  • Patient, a good listener, and a heart for animals
  • Desire to learn, grow, and be coached
  • Contribute to a positive culture

As you can see, we are looking for people who possess strong foundational skills with an attitude to succeed.If you are looking for a challenging and a rewarding service opportunity with real purpose, you have found the right opportunity!

Clear Focus:

The above Job Description is intended to describe the general duties/nature of the level of work being performed by the Animal Care Associate. This Job Description is not to be constructed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, and skills required. Job Descriptions are somewhat fluid and will change depending on the Organization's strategic direction and overall objectives accordingly.


Background Check Statement:

Approval for Hiring is contingent upon successfully passing a background check prior to your Hiring/Acceptance/Offer. This background check does not report to any credit bureau and no impact will be seen on the applicants side. This process helps the Company screen for any past background experiences that pose a threat or a discrepancy to the Organization, as TWAS does not hire any violent offenders, or individuals that have been charged criminally involving endangering/threating/hurting children and/or animals. By applying you are authorizing the The Wild Animal Sanctuary to perform this background check.

EEOC Statement:

Our Non-Profit organization, "The Wild Animal Sanctuary-Refuge" is an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, and veteran or disability status.