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Working Cattle Ranch Jobs in New Mexico (NOW HIRING)

NM · On-site

$50K/yr

Independently working with livestock in a feedlot, farm, or ranch setting, which included ... cattle production, dairy herd management, dairy marketing, equine production, farm management ...

NM · On-site

$50K/yr

Independently working with livestock in a feedlot, farm, or ranch setting, which included ... cattle production, dairy herd management, dairy marketing, equine production, farm management ...

NM

$50K/yr

Independently working with livestock in a feedlot, farm, or ranch setting, which included ... cattle production, dairy herd management, dairy marketing, equine production, farm management ...

NM

$50K/yr

Independently working with livestock in a feedlot, farm, or ranch setting, which included ... cattle production, dairy herd management, dairy marketing, equine production, farm management ...

NM

$50K/yr

Independently working with livestock in a feedlot, farm, or ranch setting, which included ... cattle production, dairy herd management, dairy marketing, equine production, farm management ...

NM · On-site

$50K/yr

Independently working with livestock in a feedlot, farm, or ranch setting, which included ... cattle production, dairy herd management, dairy marketing, equine production, farm management ...

NM

$50K/yr

Independently working with livestock in a feedlot, farm, or ranch setting, which included ... cattle production, dairy herd management, dairy marketing, equine production, farm management ...

NM · On-site

$50K/yr

Independently working with livestock in a feedlot, farm, or ranch setting, which included ... cattle production, dairy herd management, dairy marketing, equine production, farm management ...

NM · On-site

$50K/yr

Independently working with livestock in a feedlot, farm, or ranch setting, which included ... cattle production, dairy herd management, dairy marketing, equine production, farm management ...

NM

$50K/yr

Independently working with livestock in a feedlot, farm, or ranch setting, which included ... cattle production, dairy herd management, dairy marketing, equine production, farm management ...

NM

$50K/yr

Independently working with livestock in a feedlot, farm, or ranch setting, which included ... cattle production, dairy herd management, dairy marketing, equine production, farm management ...

NM · On-site

$50K/yr

Independently working with livestock in a feedlot, farm, or ranch setting, which included ... cattle production, dairy herd management, dairy marketing, equine production, farm management ...

Working Cattle Ranch information

What is the highest paying cattle livestock job?

The highest paying cattle livestock jobs are typically ranch managers or herd supervisors, especially those overseeing large operations or specialized breeding programs. These roles often require extensive experience, leadership skills, and sometimes advanced certifications, and they can offer salaries exceeding $70,000 annually depending on the size and location of the ranch.

What is a working cattle ranch?

A working cattle ranch is a type of agricultural operation where cattle are raised for purposes such as beef production, breeding, or sometimes dairy. These ranches involve the daily care and management of herds, including feeding, health maintenance, breeding, and sometimes rotational grazing. Ranch staff may also handle tasks like branding, vaccinating, repairing fences, and maintaining ranch equipment. Working cattle ranches are often large, rural properties and may also offer agritourism activities, such as ranch experiences for visitors. The work is physically demanding and requires knowledge of animal husbandry, land management, and sometimes business operations.

What Are Working Cattle Ranch Jobs?

Jobs on a working cattle ranch focus on ranch operations related to the production of cattle and, occasionally, other farm animals. As a ranch manager or herd manager, you oversee operations, hire staff, plan a budget, and report to the ranch owner. A ranch may have a veterinary team to manage cow care and breeding. A ranch hand is a general worker who helps feed and herd livestock and performs jobs like cleaning pens and fence repair. The duties and responsibilities of a ranch foreman include assigning and overseeing daily tasks. A ranch may also have a cook and other support staff.

Do cattle ranches make good money?

Working as a cattle rancher can provide a steady income, but profitability depends on factors such as herd size, market prices, land costs, and operational efficiency. Many ranchers supplement income through additional agricultural activities or value-added products. Overall, income levels vary widely and are often influenced by experience and management skills.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive on a working cattle ranch, and why are they important?

To thrive on a working cattle ranch, you need strong livestock handling abilities, basic veterinary skills, and practical knowledge of ranch operations, often gained through hands-on experience or agricultural studies. Familiarity with equipment like tractors, ATVs, and fencing tools, as well as certifications in animal health and safety protocols, are commonly required. Physical stamina, problem-solving, effective communication, and adaptability are important soft skills for success in this role. These skills and qualities ensure efficient ranch operations, animal welfare, and safety in a dynamic and often challenging environment.

What qualifications do I need to work on a ranch?

Working on a cattle ranch typically requires physical fitness, basic animal handling skills, and the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions. Prior experience with livestock, knowledge of ranch equipment, and a valid driver's license are often preferred; formal education is usually not required but can be beneficial.

How much do you make working on a cattle ranch?

Salaries for working on a cattle ranch vary based on experience, location, and job responsibilities, but typically range from $20,000 to $50,000 annually. Entry-level positions may pay closer to minimum wage, while experienced ranch hands or managers can earn higher wages and benefits. Many ranch workers also receive room and board as part of their compensation.

What is the difference between Working Cattle Ranch vs Cattle Herdsman?

AspectWorking Cattle RanchCattle Herdsman
CredentialsExperience in ranch work, possibly certifications in livestock managementExperience in cattle care, sometimes certifications in animal husbandry
Work EnvironmentRanch settings, outdoor, physically demandingOutdoor, primarily tending to cattle in pastures
Employer & IndustryRanch owners, agricultural industryFarmers, livestock companies

Both roles involve outdoor cattle care, but a Working Cattle Ranch typically encompasses broader responsibilities like ranch maintenance and operations, while a Cattle Herdsman focuses mainly on cattle management and health. The roles often overlap, but the ranch role may include additional duties related to the overall ranch environment.

What are some common challenges faced by employees working on a cattle ranch, and how can they be managed?

Working on a cattle ranch often involves long hours, physically demanding tasks, and variable weather conditions. Employees may face challenges such as handling unpredictable livestock, maintaining equipment, and managing land and water resources. Developing strong teamwork, time management, and problem-solving skills is essential for overcoming these challenges. Many ranches offer on-the-job training and mentorship, which can help new hires adapt to the work environment and develop necessary skills for success.
What are the most commonly searched types of Working Cattle Ranch jobs in New Mexico? The most popular types of Working Cattle Ranch jobs in New Mexico are:
What are popular job titles related to Working Cattle Ranch jobs in New Mexico? For Working Cattle Ranch jobs in New Mexico, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Working Cattle Ranch jobs in New Mexico look for? The top searched job categories for Working Cattle Ranch jobs in New Mexico are:
Infographic showing various Working Cattle Ranch job openings in New Mexico as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Rehab Specialist - Private 3 Horse Ranch

EquiStaff

Santa Fe, NM

$65/hr

Full-time

Medical

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

About the Facility
Situated on ~300 acres outside of the center of Santa Fe, NM, this beautiful private ranch is complete with a 10 stall barn, outdoor riding arena, and 8 miles worth of private trails for the resident horses and their humans to enjoy! Providing a forever home for the family's 3 horses, this ranch will soon grow to include cattle grazing on the pasture land and a small armada of donkeys to protect them (NOT under the equine staff's care!). Located less than 20min from the heart of Santa Fe, this property provides a unique blend of tranquil ranch living but convenient access to civilization!

Job Description
We are looking for a compassionate, experienced equestrian to join this facility as the Rehab Specialist of the owner's 3 forever horses. Aged in their early teens, the horses here have been trained up under Parelli principals, and do not have any competition goals or rigorous demands. Though after a particularly trying 2025, the team is in need of someone well versed in performance therapies and rehab work to strengthen the team and better the lives of the horses on-site. This person will be responsible for collaborating closely with the existing team and veterinarians to devise a rehab and ongoing maintenance plan for the horses, along with maintaining the highest standards of care alongside the rest of the team. The owner is open to exploring any devices/therapeutic modalities that this individual may be experienced with, including PEMF, Laser, Cryotherapy, myofascial release, training with a Pessoa rig, and more. With a typical work schedule running 7:30am-4:00pm just 4 days per week with schedule consisting of Weds-Saturday, there are generally at least 2 individuals working in the barn at all times. The ideal individual will have an easygoing personality and will be willing to collaborate closely with the existing team, but be accustomed to providing meticulous care for the horses at all times. This person must be well experienced in western riding principals, and have a gentle, horses-first mentality.
There is a team of maintenance professionals who handle all facility upkeep, fence fixing, etc - and the cattle and donkeys are not the responsibility of the equine care team beyond basic oversight in the event of an emergency. This is truly a position centered around providing the best possible care for the 3 horses on-site for the duration of their lifetimes!

This is NOT a leadership position. There will be no training or management of additional staff, and applicants MUST be willing to observe and adhere to the existing structures and quiet nature of the team here.

A minimum of a 12 month commitment is required in this position. (Though let's be real, this is the opportunity of a lifetime!!)

Potential start date looking like Late-June/Early-July pending relocation of existing staff member

Job Duties
- Feed horses - 2x/day for gain and 4x/day for hay
- Bring horses to/from turnout
- Stall Cleaning Daily
- Check horses' feet before and after turnout and working
- Groom and provide care for horses, including daily use of therapeutic technologies
- Collaborate closely with Owner and Veterinary team to devise rehab and maintenance plan for the horses
- Exercise horses both in the arena and on the trails on schedule in collaboration with the Barn Manager, Trainer and Owner ~1hr per ride, 2 horses per day
- Monitor for any signs of illness, injury, or various other equine ailments - and treat accordingly

*Ability to perform night check duties for additional income is possible!

Job Requirements
- Minimum 5 years professional working experience in an established equestrian program
- Minimum 2 years rehab experience in an established program
- Minimum 8 years riding experience, preferably with Western riding styles
*Familiarity with Parelli training methods is preferred but not required
- Must be comfortable signing a 1 year commitment in this role
- Must be capable of driving a 3 horse gooseneck trailer in event of emergency
- Must be willing to follow detailed care instructions and uphold owner's standards of horsecare at all times
- Must be able to bandage and provide basic first aide for horses
- Easygoing, collaborative teamwork attitude
- Willing to do all aspects of horse care
- Possess a strong attention to detail and high care standards for horses
*Bonus if familiar with rehab modalities - i.e. massage, laser, PEMF, theraplate, etc
*Bonus is comfortable and able to give IV/IM injections

Benefits
- $65/hr with an average 35hour work week for an expected base comp totaling around $115,000
- 50% employer paid health insurance
- Relocation Stipend Available - amount depending on individual scenario
- 4 day work week
- 1hr paid lunch daily
- Ability to make additional income with night check responsibilities

Housing
Applicants must be willing to source their own housing within 45min of the ranch
On average, a newly built/high quality rental can be found for about $1000/mo in the local area - but prices can be as low as $800/mo. A quality and reliable vehicle is required for this opportunity