Overview

A ranch manager oversees and maintains cattle or sheep on a large land area.

What responsibilities will I have?

• Daily monitor herd by riding horseback, in a truck or tractor
• Ensure animals have access to water and food at all times
• Identify sick animals and determine proper treatment or contact veterinarian
• Transport animals to market
• Assist in branding or tagging of animals
• Oversee and administer vaccination programs
• Corral animals for vaccinations or branding
• Maintain and build fences as well as any shelter buildings
• Maintain ranch and herd equipment
• Hire, train and supervise ranch hands or herdsmen
• Monitor grazing land to ensure livestock is properly fed; may need to setup and monitor irrigation systems during droughts
• May plant and harvest hay or forage to save for winter feed supply
• Maintain financial, operational, production and employee records
• Remain up to date regarding markets and industry trends
• Maintain high standards of animal welfare

What education and training is required?

A high school diploma is required to become a ranch manager, although an associate’s degree in animal science or animal husbandry would be very beneficial.

To pursue a career as a Ranch Manager:

The following high school courses are recommended: agricultural education, animal science, biology, business courses, personal finance, and mathematics.

Where can I work?

Ranch managers are employed by ranch owners as well as large cattle feeding companies, or they are self-employed and work on their own ranches.

Future Job Market / Outlook

The future outlook for a ranch manager will be fair over the next five years.

Suggested Professional Organizations and Associations

• United Cattlemen’s Association
• National Cattlemen’s Beef Association
• State Cattle or Beef Associations