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

Filled / Expired

Private

Email
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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

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.

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