Ranch Hand needed at 8th-generation Working Cow/Calf Operation in Oregon

Wilson Ranches

Email

[email protected]

Location

Fossil, OR

Job Type

Full Time, Year round

Salary

Based on Experience

Posted

February 16, 2026

Housing Offered?

Yes

Experience

2-5 yrs

Sponsoring Work Visas?

How to Apply

Via Email

Wilson Ranches – Eastern Oregon High Desert

Wilson Ranches is seeking a dependable and motivated individual to join our 8th-generation family-owned and operated cattle ranch in Eastern Oregon. We are a working cow/calf operation looking for someone who values low-stress stockmanship, loves being horseback, hardwork, responsibility, the Western way of life, and who brings a good attitude (and a sense of humor) to the crew.

Responsibilities Include:

Daily care and management of cow/calf pairs
Livestock movement and handling by horseback
Assisting during winter and spring calving
Gathering, sorting, branding, and shipping cattle
Irrigation setup, daily rotations, and maintenance for hand line and wheel line
Fence building and repair
Equipment operation (tractors, pickups, trailers)
Basic mechanical work and maintenance on ranch equipment
General ranch upkeep and seasonal projects
Assisting with the bed and breakfast: cooking, hosting, and room turnover
Wrangler for guest trail rides and cattle drives with all skill levels of guests

Qualifications:

Experience with cattle preferred
Advanced horseback rider
Irrigation and fencing experience is strongly valued
Experience operating farm equipment preferred (or willingness to learn)
Mechanical ability is a plus
Haying experience is a plus
Strong work ethic “pitch in wherever needed” attitude
Willingness to work long hours during busy seasons
Self-starter who can work independently without constant supervision
Team player with a positive attitude and a good sense of humor
We can accommodate one working ranch horse. No studs or colts. However, the ranch provides horses to ensure you can complete your work effectively.
Valid driver’s license required
Wilson Ranches is absolutely a smoke-free and drug-free property. No smoking, no vaping, no e-cigarettes, and no marijuana permitted.
No indoor pets permitted
No family housing available

What We’re Looking For:

Our operation is in Oregon’s high desert, and we are looking for someone who is comfortable with the western ranch lifestyle and content living 70 miles from the nearest fast-food restaurant. This is real ranch work: early mornings, long days, changing weather, and busy seasons. We need someone dependable, capable, and proactive. The right person takes initiative, recognizes what needs to be done, and gets after it — all while being a team player others enjoy working alongside.