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Ranch Work Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

Foster Farms

Ranch Foreperson I NE

Merced, CA · On-site

$16 - $21.50/hr

Contribute to and oversee all ranch activities and functions of assigned fryers and fryer ranch ... Must be self-motivated and able to work independently with a minimum of supervision. * Must possess ...

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Ranch Work information

See Merced, CA salary details

$10

$18

$25

How much do ranch work jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for ranch work in Merced, CA is $18.37, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $20.58 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is ranch work?

Ranch work involves a variety of tasks related to the care and management of livestock, such as cattle, horses, sheep, and goats, as well as the maintenance of ranch property. Typical duties include feeding and watering animals, repairing fences, herding livestock, assisting with breeding and birthing, and maintaining equipment. Ranch workers may also help with branding, vaccinating, and transporting animals, as well as general land management and upkeep of facilities. The work is often physically demanding and requires knowledge of animal behavior, machinery, and safety practices. Ranch work can be seasonal or year-round, depending on the operation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in ranch work, and why are they important?

To thrive in Ranch Work, you need practical experience in livestock handling, basic animal care, and operating ranch equipment, often gained through on-the-job training or agricultural coursework. Familiarity with tools like tractors, fencing equipment, and sometimes certifications in animal husbandry or pesticide application are valuable. Strong work ethic, adaptability, and effective communication are important soft skills for collaborating with team members and managing unpredictable situations. These skills and qualities ensure the safety, productivity, and well-being of both animals and workers on a ranch.

What are some common challenges faced by ranch workers, and how can they be managed on the job?

Ranch workers often face challenges such as long hours, physically demanding tasks, and exposure to varying weather conditions. Adapting to these challenges requires good physical fitness, a flexible mindset, and strong time management skills. Teamwork is essential, as ranch workers frequently collaborate with others to care for livestock, maintain equipment, and manage land. Building strong communication with supervisors and fellow workers can help address issues quickly and create a supportive work environment.

What is the difference between Ranch Work vs Farm Hand?

AspectRanch WorkFarm Hand
CredentialsNone typically required, but experience with livestock helpfulOften requires knowledge of crop management and machinery
Work EnvironmentOpen fields, livestock areas, ranchesFields, greenhouses, crop areas
Industry UsagePrimarily in livestock and cattle ranchingPrimarily in crop farming and horticulture

Ranch Work and Farm Hand roles both involve manual labor in agricultural settings, but Ranch Work focuses on livestock management in open-range environments, while Farm Hands typically handle crop cultivation and machinery in farming operations. The skills and environment differ, but both require physical stamina and basic agricultural knowledge.

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

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

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

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

Ranch Work jobs near you
Infographic showing various Ranch Work job openings in Merced, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $38,200 per year, or $18.4 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

310th of 440 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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