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Working Ranch Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Showing results 41-41

Working Ranch information

What is a working ranch?

A working ranch is a type of agricultural property where livestock such as cattle, horses, or sheep are raised and managed as part of daily operations. Unlike guest or dude ranches, working ranches focus primarily on traditional ranching activities, including animal husbandry, land management, and crop production. Workers on a ranch may perform tasks such as feeding animals, maintaining fences, repairing equipment, and assisting with breeding or calving. These ranches play a vital role in food production and rural economies. Working ranches can also offer hands-on experiences for those interested in learning about the ranching lifestyle.

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

To thrive as a Working Ranch Hand, you need practical knowledge of livestock care, basic veterinary skills, equipment operation, and general ranch maintenance, often gained through hands-on experience or agricultural training. Familiarity with tools like tractors, fencing equipment, ATVs, and sometimes certification in animal handling or first aid is beneficial. Strong work ethic, adaptability, effective communication, and problem-solving skills help individuals excel in dynamic, outdoor environments. These competencies are crucial for ensuring animal welfare, operational efficiency, and safety on a working ranch.

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

Working on a ranch often involves long hours in varying weather conditions, physically demanding tasks, and the need to adapt quickly to unexpected situations such as animal health issues or equipment breakdowns. Teamwork and clear communication are essential for safety and efficiency, as many tasks require coordination with other workers. Building resilience, staying organized, and being proactive about equipment maintenance can help address these challenges. Additionally, seeking mentorship from experienced ranch hands can provide valuable insights and support.

What is the difference between Working Ranch vs Ranch Hand?

AspectWorking RanchRanch Hand
CredentialsExperience with livestock, basic riding skillsSimilar credentials, often includes riding and animal care
Work EnvironmentLarge outdoor ranch, varied terrainSame outdoor setting, hands-on animal and land management
Employer & IndustryRanch owners, agricultural industryRanch owners, agricultural industry
Job FocusGeneral ranch operations, animal care, maintenanceAnimal care, fencing, feeding, general ranch tasks

Both roles involve outdoor work on ranches, focusing on livestock and land management. A Working Ranch typically refers to the entire operation, while a Ranch Hand is a specific position within that environment, performing hands-on tasks essential to daily ranch functions.

How to get started working on a working ranch?

To start working on a working ranch, gain basic knowledge of livestock care, fencing, and equipment operation through hands-on experience or courses. Many ranches prefer applicants with physical fitness, a willingness to learn, and sometimes prior farm work experience; some positions may require a valid driver's license or certifications in safety or animal handling.

What qualifications do I need to work on a working ranch?

Working ranch positions typically require physical fitness, basic animal handling skills, and experience with farm equipment. Prior knowledge of livestock care, fencing, and maintenance can be beneficial, and some roles may require certifications such as CPR or first aid. Experience working outdoors and a willingness to perform manual labor are important qualifications.

What are the most commonly searched types of Working Ranch jobs in Iowa?

The most popular types of Working Ranch jobs in Iowa are:

Infographic showing various Working Ranch job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution.

Maintenance and Repairs Service Technician

Waukon Feed Ranch Inc

Waukon, IA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Job Type
Full-time
Description
Position Overview:
The Maintenance and Repairs Service Technician must have background working in maintenance and repair work or construction work. The qualified candidate should have an interest in continuous improvement of our construction department in terms of addressing the needs of our customer base efficiently and focusing on preventative maintenance. This position will be assigned to a crew and report to the Construction Lead. The Construction Service Technician provides an exciting opportunity for those who have are mechanically minded and want to grow their career within an evolving industry.
Essential Job Responsibilities
  • Drive to assigned facilities to complete service calls
  • Complete repairs and maintenance at swine units including sow farms, nurseries, and finishing sites
  • Assist with new construction projects, facility expansions, and infrastructure improvements within agricultural operations and related facilities.
  • Repair, maintain, and troubleshoot equipment such as feed motors, feed sensors, feed systems, augers, feed lines, fan motors, fan housings, ventilation systems, curtains, inlets, and cool cells.
  • Power washer routine maintenance and repair
  • Roof repairs and replacements
  • Welding to repair and construct gating and pens
  • Completing structural building repairs, doors and framing, slat patching
  • Follow all required bio-security including showering in and out of facilities, disinfecting tools, having proper downtime as assigned by Construction Management
  • Spend time both indoors and outdoors, depending on the project assigned

Reasonable Accommodations Statement: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable Accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential duties of the position.
Requirements
Education and Experience
  • The preferred candidate would have one year of background in maintenance or construction.

Qualifications
  • Must have a valid driver's license to operate WFR vehicles
  • Ability to work on a small team with others
  • Mechanically inclined and have good operational sense
  • Reliable and dependable
  • Willingness to learn and follow protocols
  • Time management
  • Detail oriented
  • Ability to lift a minimum of 50 lbs.
  • Ability to stand, walk and be on feet for 8 to 10 hours a day
  • Ability to frequently bend, reach, squat, climb & kneel
  • Capable to do repeated actions
  • Effectively communicate with team members

Work Environment
  • Schedule: Must work scheduled days and hours assigned by manager. Must work full time, a minimum of 40 hours per week. Schedule will be Monday-Thursday with occasional Fridays and additional hours as needed.
  • Environment: Indoors and outdoors. Nosie level is usually moderate to loud.
  • Travel: Will travel via work vehicle to assigned sites. Will travel to different locations in the tristate area.