Vera Earl Ranch Inc.
COLT STARTER AND COWBOY
Vera Earl Ranch, based in Sonoita, AZ, is a fast-paced, highly diversified cattle and performance-horse operation running approximately 2,500 cows across nearly 80,000 acres, alongside an equine herd of roughly 100 head. First and foremost a working cattle ranch; encompassing a cow-calf operation, seasonal yearlings, a grow yard, and a dedicated horse program. We rely on versatile, dependable horses for daily, real-world livestock management. Our internal horse pipeline raises, trains, and maintains stock for daily ranch needs while systematically preparing select young prospects for performance events and public sale. Our breeding program produces elite AQHA Ranching Heritage prospects carrying proven cow horse bloodlines; including Metallic Cat, Peptoboonsmal, Smart Little Lena, Once Ina Boon, One Time Pepto, Gallodel Ciello, Bet Hesa Cat, and Shining Spark genetics. Backed by active ownership, dedicated ranch hands, an equine rehab facility, and an on-site breeding lab, our team works together to maintain a top-tier working herd built to handle the demands of open-country cattle work.
We are seeking a skilled, self-motivated Colt Starter & Cowboy to lead young horse development and support daily cattle operations. This is a full-time, hands-on role responsible for starting eight to ten 2-year-olds annually, riding two to five 3-year-olds, and preparing select horses for public sale and performance. When not in the round pen or arena, you will be in the saddle assisting with general ranch work. The ideal candidate brings exceptional horsemanship, a strong work ethic, and the adaptability to work both independently and alongside our ranch team, cowboys, and horse care manager.
Note: This is a practical ranch and horse-development position, not a horse showing role. While prior show experience is helpful, your primary focus is putting solid, dependable foundations on young horses and contributing directly to daily ranch operations.
As with any working ranch, the hours and days vary dependent up on the time of year, however, expect long hours, 6 days per week.
Benefits are offered, with many opportunities for advancement within the company.
REQUIREMENTS:
- General horse and ranching experience, with preference given to applicants with more than 5 years of experience.
- Demonstrated experience starting and riding high-caliber performance/cow horse prospects (must have a proven background with sensitive, athletic bloodlines and putting a soft, athletic foundation on young stock).
- Exceptional horsemanship skills specializing in colt starting.
- Able to start and ride young horses.
- Able to work both independently, and as a team
- Capable of keeping accurate records
- Maintain cleanliness, appearance and organization of the colt starting facilities, tack room, truck, and house
- Clean driving and criminal record
- Valid driver’s license
PREFERRED, BUT NOT REQUIRED:
- Ability to operate heavy machinery
- Ability to weld
BENEFITS INCLUDE:
- Ranch truck and trailer for ranch use
- Housing, including utilities, etc.
- Half a beef, per year
- Bonus pay based upon meeting performance metrics
- Health insurance, following 90 day probationary period
- Two outside horses allowed
- Pay dependent on experience
TO APPLY:
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