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Ranch Manager Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

Manage and control all ranch production costs, to include all labor, fuel, supply, utility, medication, and ranch maintenance costs. Maintain accurate and complete records pertaining to all ranch ...

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Calf Ranch Manager

Hilmar, CA · On-site

$75K - $100K/yr

... Ranch & Young stock Oversight · Manage calf intake processing, vaccinations, dehorning, and pain mitigation protocols. · Ensure accuracy in milk and milk replacer mixing; conduct routine feeding ...

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Ranch Manager information

See Merced, CA salary details

$25.9K

$57.3K

$98.2K

How much do ranch manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for ranch manager in Merced, CA is $57,317.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,200.00 and $70,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a ranch manager?

A ranch manager is a farm professional who is responsible for the daily operations on a ranch. Ranch managers raise, care for, and in some cases, oversee the slaughter of livestock. They may also maintain machinery and structures that house animals, as well as purchase feed, equipment, and supplies. Ranch managers must also ensure that all animals are being raised to meet market standards and applicable regulations.

What does a ranch manager do?

A Ranch Manager oversees the daily operations of a ranch, which may include managing livestock, crops, staff, equipment, and budgeting. They are responsible for the health and productivity of animals, maintenance of facilities, and often handle purchasing, sales, and marketing of ranch products. Ranch Managers may also implement breeding programs, ensure compliance with regulations, and address environmental concerns such as land conservation. Their role is crucial to the profitability and sustainability of the ranch.

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

To thrive as a Ranch Manager, you need strong knowledge of livestock management, pasture maintenance, and business operations, often supported by a degree in agriculture or animal science. Familiarity with ranch management software, equipment maintenance, and regulatory compliance is typically required. Leadership, problem-solving, and effective communication are critical soft skills for overseeing staff and coordinating daily operations. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring the ranch runs efficiently, sustainably, and profitably.

What are some common challenges ranch managers face in balancing livestock health with budget constraints?

Ranch Managers often need to make strategic decisions that ensure the health and productivity of their livestock while staying within tight budgetary limits. This includes prioritizing expenditures on feed, veterinary care, and equipment maintenance, as well as adapting to fluctuations in market prices and weather conditions. Effective Ranch Managers regularly monitor herd health, implement preventive care, and seek cost-efficient solutions, all while maintaining compliance with safety and environmental regulations. Collaborating with veterinarians, suppliers, and ranch staff is key to overcoming these challenges and maintaining a profitable operation.

What is the difference between Ranch Manager vs Farm Supervisor?

AspectRanch ManagerFarm Supervisor
CredentialsExperience in ranch operations, possibly some certifications in agriculture or livestock managementExperience in crop or livestock management, often with certifications in agriculture or horticulture
Work EnvironmentLarge ranches, livestock-focused, outdoor, rural settingsFarms or agricultural operations, crop or livestock-focused, outdoor, rural or semi-rural
Employer & IndustryRanching companies, livestock farms, agricultural businessesFarming operations, agricultural companies, horticulture businesses

The Ranch Manager and Farm Supervisor roles share similarities in managing agricultural operations and requiring relevant experience. However, Ranch Managers typically oversee livestock and large-scale ranch activities, while Farm Supervisors often focus on crop production or smaller-scale farm tasks. Both roles demand practical knowledge of agriculture, but their specific responsibilities and work environments differ based on the type of farm or ranch.

What are the most commonly searched types of Ranch jobs in Merced, CA?

The most popular types of Ranch jobs in Merced, CA are:

What job categories do people searching Ranch Manager jobs in Merced, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Ranch Manager jobs in Merced, CA are:

What cities near Merced, CA are hiring for Ranch Manager jobs?

Cities near Merced, CA with the most Ranch Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Ranch Manager job openings in Merced, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,317 per year, or $27.6 per hour.

Assistant Ranch Foreperson Driveon- Fox 1 Ranch

Foster Farms

Merced, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 22 days ago


Foster Farms rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 44 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

311th of 442 rated food and drinks producers


Job description

Description Job Description(Additional $1.00 per hour for hours worked between 7:00pm and 11:59pm. Additional $2.00 per hour for hours worked between 12:00am-4:59am) Contribute to and assist Ranch Manager to oversee all ranch activities and functions of assigned fryers and fryer ranch. Assist manager to direct the grow out of fryers through the setup of the ranch, brooding, temperatures, ventilation, mortality, vaccinations, medications, so that conditions are maintained to meet the highest possible level of quality. Maintain the ranch facilities, to include appearance, arranging with the maintenance department, needed materials and service calls. Follow and enforce strict sanitation procedures being constantly aware of the bird's health; report any abnormalities to the Manager or Field Supervisor. React responsibly to emergencies that could adversely affect the chickens, day or night. Assist Ranch Manager to manage and control all ranch production costs, to include. all labor, fuel, supply, utility, medication, and ranch maintenance costs. Maintain accurate and complete records pertaining to all ranch activities, i.e., feed, mortality, fuel, production, and energy consumption. Assist Ranch Manager to provide proper training and delegation of duties to all ranch personnel. Adhere to and enforce company safety, animal welfare and disease prevention guidelines. Additional Functions include, but limited to, perform other duties as assigned by management. Qualifications Must have completed the Chicken Grow Out Training Program. Must be self-motivated and able to work independently with a minimum of supervision. Must possess supervisory and leadership skills. Must have good mathematical and organizational skills. Must have good written and verbal communication skills (Basic English). Must be able to move and lift 50 pounds. Preferably, will have a mechanical aptitude. Must be willing and able to respond as necessary to alarms and adverse conditions affecting the chickens. Must be able to work as scheduled/needed to include overtime, evenings, holidays and weekends. Must be able to follow and enforce company standards, guidelines and policies on anyone working on his/her ranch complex. Must have the ability to work at other ranches/complexes as needed.

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