Full-time Ranch Hand (w/ Equine experience) needed at Private Ranch in Santa Rosa, California

Private

Location
Santa Rosa, CA
Job Type
Full Time, Year round
Salary
See listing
Posted
September 6, 2025
Housing Offered
Yes
Experience
5-10 yrs
Sponsoring Work Visas?
No
How to Apply
Via Email

We are seeking a dedicated, hard-working Full-Time Ranch Hand to join our team and offer potential on-site housing (after trial period) at our private ranch. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with significant horse handling experience, a strong work ethic, and a genuine passion for ranch life. The primary responsibilities will include the daily care of our horses and the general upkeep of the ranch property and its facilities. This is a full-time, non-exempt (hourly) position with some Saturday and Sunday work.

Key Responsibilities:

Horse Care:

  • Daily handling, turnout, and bringing in horses
  • Feeding, watering, and closely monitoring their health and behavior
  • Daily cleaning and bedding of stalls
  • Administering basic first aid and medications as needed
  • Assisting with farrier and veterinary visits

Facility and Property Maintenance:

  • Cleaning and maintaining water troughs and automatic waterers
  • Repairing and maintaining fences, gates, and other ranch infrastructure
  • Operating tractors, mowers, and other equipment for pasture mowing and land upkeep
  • Ability to lift 50 lbs. (hay bales, shavings bags, etc).
  • Maintaining the cleanliness and organization of barn, tack rooms, and feed areas
  • General upkeep of ranch grounds including driveways, landscaping, and outbuildings

Other Duties:

  • Observing and reporting any issues concerning the horses, equipment, or property
  • Assisting with equine-assisted learning events or ranch projects
  • Working independently and collaboratively with other staff as needed
  • Conducting regular checks of the property and its structures
  • Maintaining fences and gates
  • Implementing/maintaining vegetation management practices in line with County Firesafe guidelines

Education and Experience:

  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • A minimum of five (5) years of experience working on a farm, ranch, or related experience.
  • Demonstrated experience in operating and maintaining ranch equipment such as tractors, mowers, chainsaws, etc. is essential.

Licenses:

  • Must possess a valid Class C California Driver’s License with a clean driving record.

Skills:

  • Must be fluent in spoken and written English, with the ability to understand written instructions, including labels and operating/maintenance manuals.
  • Extensive experience with horses (handling, turnout, feeding, safety practices)
  • Proficiency in operating and maintaining ranch equipment (tractor, mower, chainsaw, etc.).
  • Strong physical stamina and ability to work outdoors in all types of weather.
  • Must be dependable, honest, and capable of following instructions with minimal supervision.
  • Valid driver’s license required
  • Basic math skills
  • Skills to oversee contractors
  • Skills to perform minor plumbing and carpentry tasks

Work Environment:

  • Must be willing to work a flexible schedule to meet the needs of the ranch, including full-time hours with some Saturday and Sunday work.
  • Typically, the role involves working independently with minimal supervision, requiring self-direction and the ability to prioritize daily tasks. There may be occasions to work with contractors or other team members.
  • All smoking, vaping and tobacco use are strictly prohibited on ranch property.

Additional Details:

  • Housing: Private on-site housing is possible after successfully completing 90-day trial period. For qualified person, housing is required as part of fulfilling work responsibilities, as well as compensation provided.
  • Work Environment: Must be able to work independently as some days you will be by yourself. Also, this is a physically demanding role in an outdoor environment. Candidates must be comfortable with a rural and active lifestyle.
  • Applicants must provide: (3) references, proof of a clean driving record, and background check must be completed

Schedule: This is a full-time position that requires flexibility, including availability on weekends and holidays.

Salary: $22 – $25/hour for trial period of (90) days; and $17 – $20/hour + on-site housing, including all utilities, equivalent to $36 – $38/hour

How to Apply:

Please send your resume, references, and a brief overview of your horse and ranch experience to our email address. Candidates may be asked to complete a working interview.

Email
[email protected]

How to Apply for this Ranch Job

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