Ranch Manager
Ranch managers oversee and maintain cattle, equine or sheep on a large land area. They monitor grazing land to ensure livestock are properly fed and assure that their environment is well kept and safe. During droughts, they may need to set up and monitor irrigation systems. Additionally, they identify sick animals, monitor nutrition and determine proper treatment or contact a veterinarian.
What Responsibilities Will I Have?
- Monitor herd daily by riding horseback, in a truck or on a tractor
- Ensure animals always have access to water and food
- Monitor animals’ environment to ensure adequate food, water and a safe area is achieved
- Identify and determine proper treatment for sick animals
- Assist in loading and transporting animals to market or other facilities
- Assist in branding or tagging animals
- Oversee and administer vaccination programs in accordance with veterinary recommendations
- Corral animals for vaccinations or branding
- Maintain and build fences as well as any shelter buildings
- Maintain and clean ranch and herd equipment
- Hire, train and supervise ranch hands or herdsmen
- Plant and harvest hay or forage to save for winter feed supply
- Maintain financial, operational, production and employee records
- Remain up to date regarding markets and industry trends
- Maintain high standards of animal welfare and seek veterinary assistance as needed
Recommended High School Courses:
- agricultural education, particularly animal science
- biology
- business
- personal finance
- mathematics
Education/Training Required:
A high school diploma is required to become a ranch manager, although an associate degree in animal science or animal husbandry would be beneficial.
