Farm Manager / Ranch Hand needed at Family-run Animal Sanctuary in Solvang, CA

Private

Email
owner@sirlad.com
Location
Solvang, CA
Job Type
Full Time, Year round
Salary
Based on experience
Posted
August 29, 2025
Housing Offered
No
Experience
5-10 yrs
Sponsoring Work Visas?
Maybe
How to Apply
Via Email

Job Title: Farm Manager/ Ranch Hand
Location: Solvang, CA (Santa Barbara County)
Employment Type: Full-time

About Us:

We are a family-run animal sanctuary in the scenic Santa Ynez Valley, spanning 20 acres. We provide a compassionate home for horses, goats, sheep, pigs, and chickens, prioritizing their health and happiness. We’re seeking a dedicated individual to join our team in ensuring exceptional animal care.

Role Overview:

We are hiring a compassionate Ranch Hand/Manager to oversee and perform daily operations at our animal sanctuary. This hands-on role combines managerial oversight with direct animal care and maintenance tasks, ensuring the well-being of our horses, goats, sheep, pigs, and chickens. Ideal for someone passionate about animal welfare who thrives in a rural, independent setting.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Oversee daily animal care, including feeding, health monitoring, grooming, and administering basic treatments (e.g., vaccinations or medications).
  • Perform cleaning and mucking tasks, such as cleaning stalls, coops, and pens, to maintain sanitary living conditions for animals.
  • Maintain farm facilities and infrastructure (e.g., fences, barns, coops, water systems).
  • Operate and maintain equipment, including tractors, ATVs, or other machinery, for daily operations.
  • Make decisions to support animal well-being, adapting to their needs and weather conditions.
  • Perform general repairs and property upkeep, including lifting heavy weights, working outdoors in various conditions.
  • Keep accurate records of animal health, feed inventory, and operational expenses.
  • Coordinate with veterinarians or suppliers for animal care supplies and services.

Requirements:

  • High school diploma or equivalent; training in animal care or farm management preferred.
  • 3+ years of experience as a ranch hand or manager, with expertise in caring for horses, goats, sheep, pigs, or chickens.
  • Strong knowledge of animal husbandry, cleaning/mucking procedures, and equipment operation.
  • Physical stamina for manual labor, and working long hours (including weekends).
  • Valid driver’s license; ability to safely operate tractors, ATVs, or similar equipment.
  • Compassionate, responsible, and a problem-solving mindset with ability to work independently.

Preferred:

  • Certifications in animal care or basic veterinary skills.
  • Background check

Benefits:

  • Competitive salary with potential performance-based bonuses.
  • Health insurance contribution
  • Rewarding work in a compassionate, animal-focused environment.

How to Apply:

Email your resume and a brief cover letter to with the subject “Ranch Hand/Manager Application.” Include references and relevant certifications. We are an equal opportunity employer and review applications on a rolling basis. Immediate start preferred.

California Ranch

Email
owner@sirlad.com

How to Apply for this Ranch Job

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