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Working Cattle Ranch Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Ranch Hand

Brownwood, TX · On-site

$14.25 - $19/hr

Perform ranch duties which may include fence repair, clearing pastures and working cattle. * Special specific projects as assigned by the Ranch Manager * Other duties may be assigned. WHAT YOU'LL ...

Move cattle on horseback, roping and doctoring cattle as necessary * Construct and maintain fence ... EXPERIENCE & EDUCATION: * Minimum of five (5) years of ranch working experience preferred

Ranch Hand

Olsburg, KS

$45K - $55K/yr

... our cattle program. The ideal candidate enjoys working outdoors, takes pride in hard work, and ... Ranch Operations Inspect and repair fencing, gates, water systems, and ranch infrastructure.

New

Ranch Hand

Olsburg, KS

$45K - $55K/yr

... our cattle program. The ideal candidate enjoys working outdoors, takes pride in hard work, and ... Ranch Operations • Inspect and repair fencing, gates, water systems, and ranch infrastructure ...

New

Ranch Hand

Loomis, WA · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Move cattle on horseback, roping and doctoring cattle as necessary * Construct and maintain fence ... EXPERIENCE & EDUCATION: * Minimum of five (5) years of ranch working experience preferred

Mechanic Position - Galt Ranch White Sulphur Springs, Montana Galt Ranch, a family-owned cattle ... If you are a professional mechanic who enjoys working with a diverse mix of vehicles and heavy ...

Oversee cattle operations, including herd health, breeding, feeding, and pasture management ... Working Conditions: * Involves performing work in outdoor weather conditions with exposure to ...

The Livestock Technician supports daily ranch operations by maintaining livestock and pasture infrastructure. This includes working cattle from horseback, ATV, or on foot, administering medical care ...

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Ranch Maintenance Worker

Lebec, CA · On-site

$43K - $43K/yr

... working practices. Behavioral Expectations  Demonstrate behaviors that are of high values that ... Cattle leases cover about 250,000 acres (1,012 km2), and depending on the season, up to 12,000 head ...

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Working Cattle Ranch information

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How much do working cattle ranch jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for working cattle ranch in the United States is $17.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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? The most popular types of Working Cattle Ranch jobs are:
What states have the most Working Cattle Ranch jobs? States with the most job openings for Working Cattle Ranch jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Working Cattle Ranch jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Working Cattle Ranch jobs are:
Cattle Assistant Area Manager-Norias Division

Cattle Assistant Area Manager-Norias Division

King Ranch, Inc.

Armstrong, TX

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago


Job description

Role Summary:

Manage and direct 2 or more different cattle units to ensure compliance with budgets, policies, programs, and the Mission Statement of the King Ranch Inc. (Ranching and Wildlife Segment) in order to maximize profits and range cattle operational efficiencies. This is an operations-oriented job which requires extensive time being spent in the field with subordinates.

What to Expect in the Role:

  • Oversee and ensure timely and accurate postings to the King Ranch cattle inventory system to provide accurate and timely information to the accounting department and upper management.
  • Communicate on a regular basis with the Area Manager for Cattle Operations and report any cattle shortages, variances from standard operating procedures, or other issues of concern that might affect cattle operations on Division.
  • Work with the Area Manager for Cattle Operations to develop and abide by operational and capital budgets.  Ensure work being done by either the Units or outside contractors (whether being overseen by you directly or someone else) is being done to standards as outlined in the work orders or contracts.  If work is not being done to standard communicate with your supervisor.
  • As an Asst. Area Manager, immediately report any violation of King Ranch policies or procedures by employees or others to your supervisor.
  • Develop a thorough understanding of all supplemental feeding, water facilities standards, mineral, cattle and quarter horse herd health (processing and vaccination programs as well as herd monitoring), marketing and value-added programs, the "cattle calendar" and other KR policies and procedures. Oversee and work with Unit Managers to ensure absolute compliance with all parameters, dates, and requirements of these programs.
  • Responsible for the production, planning and oversight of two Cattle Units on a Division of King Ranch.
  • Maintain cow and bull condition to ensure efficient breeding rates.  Inform supervisor immediately of any conditions which might negatively affect the cattle in your care so that proactive steps can be taken.
  • Handle cattle in a safe and humane manner and abide by the King Ranch Animal Welfare and Environmental mission statements.
  • Develop stocking programs to ensure production of the most animals and lbs./acre produced as possible under the guidelines of the King Ranch Grazing Management program (given current conditions).  Adjustments from this program should only be made with the input and instruction from the Area Manager for Cattle Operations.     
  • Maintain traps, working facilities, and other assets assigned to the cattle units in good repair and to the standards set forth by King Ranch.  Inform supervisor immediately of any conditions or facilities that might be unsafe for cattle or employees.
  • Participate in scheduling and planning sessions and make meaningful suggestions for improvements to the range cattle operations on King Ranch. This includes capital budgeting, needed repairs or maintenance, brush management, stocking rate assignments, herd health, and any other area of operations that might affect production and/or profitability.
  • Communicate (and support) decisions made at higher levels of management to subordinates and other co-workers in a positive and constructive manner.
  • Project a positive image of King Ranch to both the community and our employees by conducting yourself with integrity, high character, professionalism, and an unflinching dedication to the culture and legacy of King Ranch. 
  • Take primary responsibility for accomplishment of burn plans.
What We Will Be Needing From You: 
  • Minimum BS degree in agricultural related field or extensive experience and a record of success in managing large ranching operations. 
  • Must meet requirements and achieve status as "Private Prescribed Burn Manager" under the Texas Department of Agriculture
  • Requires working knowledge of cattle production, grazing management, financial reports, and personnel supervision.
  • Must have working knowledge of computer use (word, spreadsheets, email, etc.) and be able to use technology such as GPS.
  • Must have a valid driver's license in good standing, the ability to be an approved driver for the company and to safely operate vehicles. 
Not Just Cowboys...but we have those too!
To attract and retain the best talent possible, King Ranch, Inc. is committed to providing a culture focused on our core values, which include being a team player, honesty, accountability, willingness to learn and excellence. These aren't just words to us, they are us!  Our employees give their best each and every day to safeguard the legacy we have been entrusted with.  If this sounds like something you would like to be a part of we encourage you to apply and join the King Ranch team.