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Working Ranch Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

LGI Homes

Field Marketing Coordinator

Turlock, CA · On-site

$55K - $90K/yr

This position will cover our Monte Vista, Diamond Bar East, Mattos Ranch, and Camden Shire ... Comfortable traveling between communities and working evenings and weekends for events * Skilled at ...

LGI Homes

Field Marketing Coordinator

Turlock, CA · On-site

$55K - $90K/yr

This position will cover our Monte Vista, Diamond Bar East, Mattos Ranch, and Camden Shire ... Comfortable traveling between communities and working evenings and weekends for events * Skilled at ...

Chicken Ranch

Dispatcher - FT

Jamestown, CA · On-site

$20/hr

A formal , including working conditions such as physical requirements, work atmosphere, etc., will be provided for signature during the offer process.

Open Space Meats LLC dba Mariposa Ranch

Be Seen First

Warehouse Worker

Turlock, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

The Warehouse Team receives, stores, and ships fresh and frozen beef. It's a hands-on, physically active role with opportunities to cross-train in other areas of the business. RESPONSIBILITIES * Pull ...

Chicken Ranch

Safety Officer

Jamestown, CA · On-site

$23/hr

A formal , including working conditions such as physical requirements, work atmosphere, etc., will be provided for signature during the offer process.

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All JobsWorking Ranch JobsWorking Ranch Jobs in Merced, CA

Working Ranch information

See Merced, CA salary details

$10

$18

$25

How much do working ranch jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for working ranch 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 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 cities near Merced, CA are hiring for Working Ranch jobs?

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

Working Ranch jobs near you
Infographic showing various Working Ranch job openings in Merced, CA as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 80% In-person, and 20% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $38,200 per year, or $18.4 per hour.

Assistant Ranch Drive On - Claribel Complex (Waterford)

Waterford, CA • On-site

Foster Farms
Food and Drink Manufacturing • 10K+ employees
Learn more about Foster Farmsexternal

$18.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago

Foster Farms rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

About Foster Farms
At Foster Farms, our mission is creating great food and serving great moments. Our vision is to be the best
and most trusted food company, empowering and nourishing the lives of those we serve. We measure our
success by how well we protect and care for our team, our consumers, our animals, and our environment,
while delivering operational excellence and exceptional value to our customers.Essential Functions
Pay Rate: $18.25 per hour
(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)
  • Assists Ranch Foreperson in maintaining accurate and complete records pertaining to all ranch activities and replace Ranch Foreperson on days off.
  • Maintain high level of safety awareness.
  • Promote good employee relations and communication through all levels of ranch and department personnel.
  • Monitor ranch conditions and animal husbandry practices to assure optimum bird health.

Qualifications
  • Must be a high school graduate or equivalent.
  • Must have good interpersonal skills.
  • Must have a math aptitude.
  • Bilingual is helpful (Spanish/English).
  • Must have good communication skills.
  • Must be able to submit and pass a criminal background check.
  • Will supervise up to 10 people when filling in for the Ranch Manager.

Foster Farms ACTION Guiding Principles
  • Accountability: Deliver on commitments.
  • Collaboration: Achieve more by working as a team.
  • Truth-Seeking: Be open-minded and act with humility.
  • Initiative: Be proactive and lead with a growth mindset.
  • Ownership: Take responsibility for results.
  • Nimble: Operate with speed and agility.

Why Join Foster Farms?
This is a high-impact opportunity to shape the future of the ready-to-eat business at a leading food company,
directly supporting our mission, vision, and values. You will play a critical role in delivering safe, high-quality
food and great moments for millions of families.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

What Foster Farms employees say

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