Private
Private Ranch | Cariboo Region, British Columbia
A private, family-owned ranch in British Columbia’s beautiful Cariboo Region is seeking an exceptional Senior Western Horse Trainer & Program Manager to lead the development of a high-end Working Cow Horse and ranch horse program.
This is a rare opportunity to build and oversee a thoughtfully designed horse program centred around horsemanship, horse welfare, versatility, and long-term development rather than production-driven timelines.
The program includes approximately 24 horses, including quality broodmares from proven Working Cow Horse bloodlines, young prospects, and finished horses being developed for ranch work, trail riding, family enjoyment, and amateur competition.
A small seasonal group of cattle will be maintained exclusively to support horse training and development.
The successful candidate will take ownership of all aspects of the horse program while working within a well-supported private ranch environment that values professionalism, integrity, and exceptional animal care.
About the Program
Our goal is to develop:
- Safe, willing, versatile horses
- Strong foundations in Working Cow Horse disciplines
- Reliable family and amateur-friendly mounts
- Sound, mentally confident horses with long-term usability
- A respected breeding and young horse development program
The ranch prioritizes quality over quantity and believes in developing horses at a pace appropriate to their individual maturity, confidence, and physical development.
Key Responsibilities
Horse Training & Development
- Start and develop two and three-year-old prospects using fair, progressive training methods
- Design and implement individualized development plans for each horse
- Advance horses in Working Cow Horse, Ranch Riding, Reining, cattle work, trail riding, obstacles, and ranch versatility
- Maintain the education, fitness, and reliability of finished horses
- Prepare suitable horses for competitions, clinics, demonstrations, and public events
- Assess horse temperament, trainability, rider suitability, and long-term potential
- Ensure the highest standards of horse welfare, soundness, and mental well-being
Ranch & Horse Program Management
- Oversee all daily horse care, feeding, turnout, conditioning, and health monitoring
- Coordinate veterinary, farrier, dental, reproductive, and rehabilitation services
- Maintain thorough training, health, breeding, and performance records
- Manage and mentor any assistants, barn staff, or working students
- Ensure facilities, tack, equipment, trailers, and training areas are maintained to a high standard
Breeding Program
- Manage broodmares and annual breeding plans
- Coordinate reproductive care and foaling preparation
- Oversee foaling, neonatal care, and early handling of young stock
- Contribute to long-term breeding and bloodline development strategies
Seasonal Cattle Program
- Manage a small seasonal group of training cattle
- Utilize low-stress livestock handling principles
- Support the progressive development of Working Cow Horse prospects
- Maintain facilities and records related to the cattle component
Travel & Representation
Periodic travel may be required for:
- Competitions
- Clinics
- Veterinary and breeding appointments
- Horse purchases and sales
- Industry events and educational opportunities
The role remains primarily ranch-based throughout the year.
Ideal Candidate
We are seeking an accomplished horseman or horsewoman who combines exceptional training ability with professionalism, patience, and strong leadership skills.
Qualifications
- Minimum 8 years of professional western horse training experience
- Demonstrated success developing young horses and producing dependable finished horses
- Strong background in Working Cow Horse, Ranch Riding, Reining, and practical ranch horsemanship
- Experience working with cattle and low-stress stock handling methods
- Knowledge of equine conditioning, nutrition, biomechanics, soundness, and preventative care
- Experience with broodmares, foaling, and breeding programs considered a strong asset
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple aspects of a private horse operation
- Strong communication, organisation, and record-keeping skills
- Valid driver’s licence and experience hauling horses safely
- Professional references and recent riding videos will be required
Compensation & Benefits
We offer:
A competitive compensation package wil be offered based on experience, qualifications, and scope of responsibility. Housing, relocation support, incentives, and other benefits may be discussed with qualified candidates.
- Highly competitive compensation package
- Potential on-ranch accommodation (if applicable)
- Professional development opportunities
- Travel and competition opportunities
- Long-term career growth within a private operation
- A unique opportunity to help shape a premier Working Cow Horse program from the ground up
To Apply
Please submit:
- Cover Letter
- Resume
- Relevant riding, training, and cattle-work videos
- Professional References
To apply, submit a detailed resume, relevant competition and training history, professional references, recent unedited riding and cattle-work videos, a brief training philosophy, availability, and compensation expectations.
Email
[email protected]
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