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Horse Ranch Jobs in Goleta, CA (NOW HIRING)

Ranch Hand

Solvang, CA · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

About the Role As a Ranch Hand, you'll play an important role in the daily care and maintenance of the property. You'll assist with ranch operations, equipment maintenance, landscaping, animal care ...

Caregiver needed for animals on a private ranch in Santa Barbara. MUST have solid horse experience, and be comfortable with other large stock and large dogs. Duties include feeding, grooming, turnout ...

... horse transportation to an equine veterinary hospital/clinic when necessary. Required Qualifications * Minimum 5 years of experience in a comparable maintenance, facilities, ranch, farm, or ...

New

Horse Ranch information

See Goleta, CA salary details

$10

$18

$26

How much do horse ranch jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for horse ranch in Goleta, CA is $18.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.58 and $21.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a horse ranch?

A horse ranch is a property or facility dedicated to the breeding, raising, training, and sometimes boarding of horses. Horse ranches can vary in size and may specialize in different activities such as horse breeding, riding lessons, trail rides, or training for competitions. Staff at a horse ranch typically care for the horses' daily needs, maintain facilities, and manage ranch operations. Horse ranches are often located in rural areas and may also host events or offer recreational programs for visitors.

What are different types of jobs at a horse ranch?

Jobs at a horse ranch focus on maintenance, operations, and care for horses. The duties of ranchers or managers involve overseeing operations. A groom works to care for the resident horses, while a trainer works to train the horses for riding, racing, equestrian events, or to maintain general health and fitness. Stable workers or ranch hands clean the barn, help care for horses, and perform miscellaneous tasks. Boarding facilities may have sales or marketing staff. A large ranch may also employ a breeder and veterinarian.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a horse ranch worker, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Horse Ranch Worker, you need hands-on experience with horse care, knowledge of animal husbandry, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with ranch equipment, basic veterinary tools, and sometimes certifications in equine management or first aid are valuable. Strong communication, physical stamina, attention to detail, and a genuine passion for animal welfare set outstanding workers apart. These skills are essential for ensuring the health and safety of the horses and the smooth, efficient operation of the ranch.

What are some common challenges faced when working on a horse ranch, and how can I prepare for them?

Working on a horse ranch often requires adapting to physically demanding tasks, variable weather conditions, and long or irregular hours, especially during peak seasons. You'll frequently be responsible for feeding, grooming, exercising horses, and maintaining facilities, all of which require attention to detail and safety. Developing strong communication skills will help you collaborate effectively with other ranch staff, veterinarians, and trainers. To prepare, consider building physical endurance, learning basic equine care, and gaining hands-on experience through volunteering or internships to better understand the work environment.

What is the difference between Horse Ranch vs Horse Trainer?

AspectHorse RanchHorse Trainer
Required CredentialsExperience with horse care, sometimes certifications in equine managementEquine training certifications, riding experience
Work EnvironmentRanches, farms, outdoor settingsTraining facilities, stables, outdoor arenas
Employer & Industry UsageEquine farms, ranches, breeding operationsTraining centers, riding schools, equine facilities

While both roles involve working with horses, a Horse Ranch focuses on overall horse care, management, and farm operations, whereas a Horse Trainer specializes in training horses for riding, competitions, or specific disciplines. The roles often overlap but differ mainly in scope and specialization.

What job categories do people searching Horse Ranch jobs in Goleta, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Horse Ranch jobs in Goleta, CA are:

What cities near Goleta, CA are hiring for Horse Ranch jobs?

Cities near Goleta, CA with the most Horse Ranch job openings:

Infographic showing various Horse Ranch job openings in Goleta, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,030 per year, or $18.8 per hour.

$17 - $19/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

About TMC Hospitality
TMC Hospitality is a hospitality management and development company dedicated to creating thoughtfully designed destinations that bring people together through exceptional experiences, memorable spaces, and genuine hospitality.
Our portfolio includes Drift Hotels, Bode, Maleza Restaurants, and Buttonwood Farm & Winery-each with its own unique identity but united by a commitment to design, culture, and community. From boutique hotels and destination restaurants to vineyards and event venues, we create places that inspire connection and celebrate a sense of place.
At Drift, we blend minimalist design with authentic local experiences, creating hotels that feel both elevated and approachable. At Bode, we reimagine group travel by combining the comforts of home with the amenities and service of a boutique hotel. Maleza brings together vibrant hospitality, thoughtful cuisine, and community-driven experiences, while Buttonwood offers a distinctive wine country destination rooted in agriculture, events, and hospitality.
With properties in California, Tennessee, and Baja California Sur, TMC Hospitality continues to grow while remaining focused on one core belief: hospitality should feel personal, intentional, and unforgettable.
If you're passionate about creating exceptional guest experiences and want to be part of a team that values collaboration, creativity, and continuous growth, we'd love to meet you.
About Buttonwood Farm & Winery
Nestled in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley, Buttonwood Farm & Winery is a working vineyard and ranch known for its beautiful landscapes, welcoming hospitality, and commitment to caring for the land. From vineyards and orchards to livestock and guest experiences, no two days are the same.
We're looking for a dependable, hardworking Ranch Hand who enjoys working outdoors, takes pride in maintaining beautiful spaces, and is eager to learn a variety of skills.
About the Role
As a Ranch Hand, you'll play an important role in the daily care and maintenance of the property. You'll assist with ranch operations, equipment maintenance, landscaping, animal care, seasonal projects, and preserving the beauty of the ranch. This is a hands-on position for someone who enjoys physical work, learning new skills, and being part of a collaborative team.
What You'll Do
  • Assist with daily ranch operations and property maintenance.
  • Help maintain fences, buildings, equipment, and grounds.
  • Support seasonal projects, including planting, harvesting, and haying.
  • Learn to safely operate and maintain ranch equipment.
  • Assist with basic animal and crop care.
  • Maintain clean, organized work areas and help preserve the beauty of the property.
  • Work alongside a team that values safety, teamwork, and continuous learning.
What We're Looking For
  • Strong work ethic and a willingness to learn.
  • Enjoy working outdoors in all seasons.
  • Ability to perform physically demanding work, including lifting up to 60 pounds and working on uneven terrain.
  • Positive attitude, reliability, and strong teamwork skills.
  • Ability to adapt to changing priorities and follow direction.
  • Weekend availability is required.
Why Join Buttonwood?
At Buttonwood, you'll have the opportunity to work on one of the Santa Ynez Valley's most beautiful properties while learning a wide variety of ranching and property maintenance skills. If you enjoy working with your hands, take pride in caring for the land, and want to be part of a team that values craftsmanship, stewardship, and hospitality, we'd love to meet you.
The pay range for this role is:
17 - 19 USD per hour (Buttonwood Ranch)