Barn Manager / Head Wrangler needed Majestic Dude Ranch ~ Summer 2026 & Beyond

Majestic Dude Ranch

Email

[email protected]

Location

Mancos, CO

Job Type

Full Time or Seasonal

Salary

Discussed at hiring (Hourly + Tips) Includes Room & Board

Posted

December 10, 2025

Housing Offered

Yes

Experience

2-5 yrs

Sponsoring Work Visas?

How to Apply

Via Email

Location: Mancos, Colorado – nestled in the San Juan Mountains of Southwest Colorado

Season: Summer 2026 (with potential for long-term or recurring seasonal employment)

Pay: Hourly wage (discussed at the time of hiring) plus tips.

Room & Board: Staff accommodations, including all utilities, are provided. On-site housing is rustic and shared, offering a simple and comfortable living environment. Meals are provided during guest operation days.

No-Tolerance Policy: All staff are expected to adhere to Majestic Dude Ranch’s strict no-tolerance policy. The use or possession of alcohol or drugs is prohibited in staff housing and anywhere on ranch property. Violation of this policy will result in immediate termination.

About Majestic Dude Ranch

Work in the heart of the San Juan Mountains at Majestic Dude Ranch. A family-owned, all-inclusive guest ranch known for unforgettable adventure, unparalleled hospitality, and a team that feels like family. Our guests come for the experience of a lifetime and our staff make it possible.

We’re seeking a Barn Manager (Head Wrangler) to lead our equine program and team for the 2026 season and beyond. This is a working leadership role where you’ll be in the saddle, leading a team of wranglers, caring for horses, and creating memorable experiences for guests while managing all aspects of barn operations.

This position requires someone who takes pride in doing things right, thrives in a fast-paced environment, and understands that hospitality and horsemanship go hand in hand.

Position Overview

The Barn Manager is responsible for the structure, safety, and success of the ranch’s riding program. This includes staff leadership, horse care, scheduling, guest assignments, and coordination with the larger management team.

You’ll set the tone for professionalism, teamwork, and guest service within the barn, ensuring that both horses and wranglers are well cared for and guests experience safe, unforgettable experiences. This is a hands-on leadership role, not a behind-the-scenes management position.

Key Responsibilities

Lead and manage a team of 5–7 wranglers, providing direction, scheduling, training, and accountability.
Oversee all barn operations and care for approximately 50 horses, including feeding, veterinary and farrier coordination, and tack management.
Learn to identify all ranch horses by sight, name, and personality.
Assign guests to horses based on ability, comfort, and experience.
Supervise arena activities such as team penning, mini cattle drives, and the children’s rodeo. Provide riding lessons for both adults and children.
Maintain and enforce strict safety protocols for all equine and riding activities.
Assist in maintaining trails, fences, corrals, and other ranch facilities.
Coordinate daily with management to align schedules and guest activities across departments.
Monitor team performance, provide feedback, and foster a positive, solutions-driven barn culture.
Ensure operational readiness — from horse care and tack to wrangler appearance and professionalism.
Manage barn inventory, supplies, and equipment, ensuring smooth daily operations.
Lead by example — modeling Majestic Dude Ranch values of integrity, teamwork, and exceptional service.
Communicate with guests each day to share ride schedules, explain key details, and help coordinate their horseback activities, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Leadership & Management Competencies

Leadership: Inspires confidence and sets a consistent tone of professionalism and positivity.
Communication: Clear, proactive, and respectful in all interactions with team members, management, and guests.
Accountability: Takes ownership and holds self and others to high standards.
Organization: Manages people, schedules, and resources efficiently.
Adaptability: Stays calm and focused amid changing conditions or challenges.
Team Development: Coaches and motivates wranglers, promoting growth and teamwork.
Integrity: Leads with honesty and consistency.
Guest-Centric Mindset: Balances operational demands with guest experience and safety.

Qualifications

Proven leadership or management experience — ideally in an equine, ranch, or hospitality setting (3+ years preferred).
Minimum 3 years of paid trail guiding experience with a reputable outfitter.
Strong equine knowledge, including daily care, basic veterinary care, western riding instruction, and safety protocols.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with both staff and guests.
Highly organized, detail-oriented, and capable of managing a dynamic environment.
Calm and decisive under pressure with sound judgment and problem-solving ability.
Valid driver’s license required (tractor and trailer experience preferred).

Preferred Qualifications

5+ years of professional horse experience.
Previous barn crew or wrangler leadership experience.
Certification or documented training in horseback riding instruction (or equivalent experience).
Current Red Cross First Aid & CPR certification (Wilderness First Aid preferred).
Experience with fencing, facility maintenance, or general ranch work.

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions

Ability to work long, physically active days outdoors in all weather conditions — sun, heat, cold, and mountain terrain.
Ability to lift 50+ lbs and perform physically demanding tasks.
Endurance to maintain a high level of guest interaction and supervision throughout the day with professionalism and enthusiasm.

Why Join Majestic Dude Ranch

Majestic Dude Ranch is a fast-paced, high-standard environment where leaders thrive. You’ll join a passionate, hardworking team dedicated to delivering world-class guest experiences in one of the most beautiful corners of Colorado.

The work is demanding, but it’s deeply rewarding — you’ll grow as a leader, work with incredible people and horses, and play a vital role in creating life-changing memories for our guests.

How to Apply

Please submit your inquiry, resume, and references to our email address listed. Our management team will be in touch to send you our application to submit for consideration.