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Manager Ranch Wrangler Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Manager Ranch Wrangler information

What are some typical challenges a Manager Ranch Wrangler faces in overseeing both livestock and staff, and how can they be addressed?

Manager Ranch Wranglers often balance the demands of animal welfare, land management, and supervising a diverse team of wranglers and ranch hands. Common challenges include coordinating schedules during peak seasons, ensuring safety protocols are followed, and managing unexpected issues like animal illness or weather disruptions. Successful managers foster strong communication, delegate tasks effectively, and stay proactive with training and contingency planning. Building a cohesive team and maintaining flexibility are key to handling the dynamic nature of ranch operations.

What are Manager Ranch Wranglers?

Manager Ranch Wranglers are professionals responsible for overseeing daily operations at a ranch, with a specific focus on coordinating wrangling activities. They manage staff, ensure the safety and well-being of animals, and organize activities such as horseback riding and cattle drives for guests or ranch operations. In addition to hands-on animal care, they handle scheduling, training new wranglers, maintaining equipment, and ensuring that the ranch complies with all safety and animal welfare regulations. Their role often combines leadership skills with practical ranch experience.

What is the difference between Manager Ranch Wrangler vs Ranch Hand?

AspectManager Ranch WranglerRanch Hand
CredentialsExperience in ranch management, leadership skillsBasic ranch work experience, sometimes no formal credentials
Work EnvironmentOversees operations, manages staff, plans activitiesPerforms manual labor, assists with daily chores
Employer & Industry UsageRanch owners, agricultural companiesRanch owners, farms, livestock operations

The Manager Ranch Wrangler typically has leadership responsibilities, overseeing ranch operations and staff, requiring experience in management. In contrast, a Ranch Hand focuses on hands-on tasks like feeding livestock and maintaining facilities. While both roles work in ranch environments, the Manager Ranch Wrangler has a broader scope of responsibilities and often requires more experience or credentials.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Manager Ranch Wrangler, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Manager Ranch Wrangler, you need extensive experience in livestock management, ranch operations, and a solid understanding of animal husbandry, often supported by a relevant degree or certifications in agriculture or ranch management. Familiarity with equipment such as ATVs, tractors, and ranch management software is typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help you coordinate teams and respond to challenges on the ranch. These skills ensure efficient ranch operations, animal welfare, and effective team performance in a dynamic outdoor environment.
What are the most commonly searched types of Ranch Wrangler jobs in California? The most popular types of Ranch Wrangler jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Manager Ranch Wrangler jobs in California? For Manager Ranch Wrangler jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Manager Ranch Wrangler jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Manager Ranch Wrangler jobs in California are:
Infographic showing various Manager Ranch Wrangler job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Level 3 Wrangler (Lead Wrangler)

Western Camps, Inc.

Sanger, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

About Western Camps, Inc.
Western Camps, Inc. is a mission-driven organization dedicated to providing meaningful outdoor, educational, and recreational experiences for individuals, families, and groups. Operating under the names Wonder Valley Ranch Resort, Wonder Valley Outdoor Education Center, and River Way Ranch Camp, we offer a range of programs and services that emphasize personal growth, environmental stewardship, and community connection.
Located in the foothills near Sanger, California, our facilities are situated within close proximity to Sequoia National Park, offering a unique setting that combines natural beauty with accessibility. With a long-standing commitment to safety, integrity, and excellence, Western Camps, Inc. strives to create environments where guests, students, and staff feel welcomed, supported, and inspired.
We value collaboration, professionalism, and a strong work ethic, and we are proud of the positive impact our programs have on the people and communities we serve. Join our team and enjoy meaningful work, great benefits, and perks that make every shift rewarding!
6450 Elwood Rd. Sanger, CA 93657
About the role
The Level 3 Wrangler is the lead wrangler within the Stables Department and models the standard for professionalism, horsemanship, guest service, and teamwork.
This individual serves as a trusted leader who supports the daily operation of the department and confidently steps into a leadership role in the absence of the Stables Manager. While this is not a management position, the Level 3 Wrangler is expected to lead by example, mentor fellow wranglers, and help ensure the department operates safely, efficiently, and professionally.
While advanced horsemanship is required, this role emphasizes leadership, Outdoor Education, guest engagement, mentorship, and exceptional customer service every day. The Level 3 Wrangler models professionalism, teamwork, and leadership by example while serving as a trusted resource for fellow wranglers. When the Stables Manager is unavailable or occupied with other departmental responsibilities, the Level 3 Wrangler provides operational support and helps keep daily activities running smoothly.
Our department is much more than lessons and trail rides. Throughout the year we instruct classes for Outdoor Education programs and school field trips, provide horse experiences, guest activities, and summer horse camp programs. We are looking for someone who understands that creating meaningful experiences for guests is just as important as caring for our horses.
Leadership Responsibilities:
  • Serve as the lead wrangler and primary point of contact when the Stables Manager is unavailable.
  • Lead by example through professionalism, accountability, and a positive attitude.
  • Support and mentor Level 1 and Level 2 Wranglers.
  • Help train new employees and reinforce department expectations.
  • Promote teamwork while fostering a positive and respectful work environment.
  • Take initiative and confidently make day-to-day operational decisions within department guidelines.
  • Identify opportunities for improvement and communicate them effectively to the Stables Manager.

Outdoor Education & Instruction
  • Independently teach all Outdoor Education horse classes.
  • Deliver engaging educational experiences for school groups, campers, and guests of all ages.
  • Adapt teaching methods to different age groups and learning styles.
  • Assist in developing and improving Outdoor Education curriculum.
  • Maintain class materials and communicate supply needs.
  • Communicate any student, teacher, or guest concerns to the Stables Manager and/or Manager on Duty.

Guest Experience
The Level 3 Wrangler is expected to create exceptional guest experiences by:
  • Delivering friendly, professional, and personalized customer service.
  • Building genuine connections with guests.
  • Creating a welcoming and engaging environment.
  • Anticipating guest needs before they are expressed.
  • Handling guest concerns with professionalism, empathy, and confidence.
  • Creating memorable experiences that encourage guests to return.

Horsemanship
  • Demonstrate advanced horse handling and horsemanship skills.
  • Safely lead trail rides and guest riding experiences.
  • Recognize changes in horse behavior, soundness, or health.
  • Administer medications as directed.
  • Assist with evaluating horses for lessons, trail rides, camps, and Outdoor Education programs.
  • Safely harness, hitch, and operate driving horses when assigned.
  • Maintain the highest standards of horse welfare and safety.

Qualifications
  • Demonstrated advanced horsemanship and horse handling experience.
  • Experience teaching or working with children and groups.
  • Strong leadership and mentoring abilities.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Outstanding customer service skills.
  • Ability to remain calm under pressure and make sound decisions.
  • Professional, dependable, and self-motivated.
  • Flexible availability, including afternoons, weekends, holidays, and seasonal events.

Non-Negotiables
A successful candidate must:
  • Demonstrate advanced knowledge of horse behavior, handling, safety, welfare, and daily management.
  • Consistently prioritize the safety and well-being of horses, guests, students, and fellow staff.
  • Possess the horsemanship, judgment, and experience necessary to confidently handle a wide variety of horses and situations with minimal supervision.
  • Model professionalism, integrity, accountability, and a positive attitude in every aspect of the job.
  • Lead by example and positively influence fellow wranglers through mentorship, teamwork, and effective communication.
  • Demonstrate exceptional customer service and create safe, engaging, and memorable guest experiences.
  • Confidently teach Outdoor Education classes, horse experiences, and riding programs while adapting to the needs of different age groups and learning styles.
  • Be coachable, adaptable, and committed to continuous learning and professional development.
  • Take initiative, solve problems independently, and know when to involve the Stables Manager.
  • Independently lead trail rides and horse experiences while ensuring the safety and well-being of horses, riders, guests, and staff.
  • Assess trail, weather, horse, rider, and environmental conditions and exercise sound judgment when making decisions that impact safety and the guest experience.
  • Respond appropriately to emergencies involving horses, riders, guests, or staff by following department emergency procedures, remaining calm under pressure, and exercising sound judgment.
  • Support department policies, safety standards, and the mission of the Stables Department.
  • Be available to work afternoons, weekends, holidays, and seasonal programs as needed.
  • Understand that this role extends beyond riding and includes leadership by example, Outdoor Education, guest engagement, mentorship, and supporting the success of the entire department.

Applicants must be able to demonstrate and verify the knowledge, skills, and experience required for a Level 3 Wrangler through the interview process, practical evaluations, and professional references.