Livestock Management:
* Ranch Hand/Cowboy/Cowgirl: The core worker, responsible for tending to cattle, horses, sheep, goats, or other livestock. This includes:
* Herding: Moving livestock to different pastures, rounding up strays, and managing their movement.
* Branding: Identifying animals with a hot iron.
* Feeding: Providing hay, feed, and water.
* Checking for health issues: Monitoring for sickness, injury, and parasites.
* Calving, lambing, or kidding: Assisting with births and caring for newborns.
* General maintenance: Repairing fences, cleaning barns, and other upkeep.
* Livestock Manager: Oversees all aspects of livestock care, including breeding programs, herd health, and record-keeping.
* Veterinarian: Provides medical care for livestock.
* Feedlot Manager: Responsible for the care and feeding of animals in a feedlot.
Land Management:
* Ranch Manager: Oversees all ranch operations, including finances, personnel, and land use.
* Foreman: Assists the ranch manager and supervises ranch hands.
* Field Manager: Focuses on pasture management, including rotational grazing, weed control, and soil health.
* Mechanic: Maintains and repairs farm machinery, vehicles, and equipment.
* Irrigation Specialist: Manages irrigation systems to ensure adequate water for crops and livestock.
Other Roles:
* Bookkeeper/Accountant: Handles finances, payroll, and record-keeping.
* Clerk: Assists with office duties and customer service.
* Salesperson: Markets and sells ranch products, such as livestock or crops.
Seasonal and Specialized Jobs:
* Shearer: Shears sheep for wool.
* Roundup Crew: Works during the annual roundup, gathering livestock.
* Hay Crew: Handles harvesting and baling hay.
* Fence Crew: Builds and repairs fences.
Skills Needed:
* Animal Husbandry: Knowledge of animal care and handling.
* Horseback Riding: Essential for many ranch tasks.
* Mechanical Skills: Ability to maintain and repair machinery.
* Physical Fitness: Ranch work is physically demanding.
* Problem-solving Skills: Ranching requires adaptability and quick thinking.
Ranch jobs are diverse and offer a range of opportunities for those with a passion for agriculture and the outdoors.