Entrepreneurial Ranch Manager needed for Regenerative Ranch Venture in Ada, Oklahoma ~ $80k-$120k

Happyland Ranch

Email

[email protected]

Location

Ada, OK

Job Type

Full Time, Year round

Salary

$80,000 - $120,000

Date Posted

August 29, 2024

Housing Offered

Maybe

Experience

5-10 yrs

Happyland Ranch, set on a 840-acre property in Ada, Oklahoma, is on a mission to transform conventional ranching into a model of sustainable agriculture. We are seeking an entrepreneurial Ranch Manager to lead this transformative journey and oversee every aspect of our operation, from business management to hands-on ranch work.

At Happyland Ranch, we believe in harmonizing agriculture with nature. Our vision is to restore our land to its natural oak savanna state through holistic management and regenerative practices. We currently manage 40 head of cattle on 125 acres of grazing land, with plans to expand available grazing land and introduce additional species like sheep, goats, and pigs. Implementing planned grazing is central to our approach, ensuring that our land remains healthy, diverse, and productive.

This role is not just about maintaining a ranch — it’s about building one from the ground up. As a startup operation backed by strong financial support, we are looking for a leader who can take our vision from 0 to 1. This includes everything from running daily operations and overseeing infrastructure projects to hiring staff and making strategic business decisions. While our focus is on sustainable livestock management, we also have plans to expand into agritourism and expand existing accommodation operations — though these areas are outside the scope of this role.

If you’re a hands-on manager with a passion for sustainable agriculture, strong leadership skills, and an entrepreneurial spirit, this is an unparalleled opportunity to make a lasting impact.

Skills:

Holistic Management & Planned Grazing: Expertise in implementing and managing sustainable grazing systems.
Regenerative Agriculture: Deep knowledge of practices that enhance soil health, biodiversity, and land resilience.
Direct-to-Consumer Sales: Experience in developing and managing direct-to-consumer sales channels for ranch products, ensuring a profitable and sustainable business model.
Heavy Equipment & Tractor Operation: Proficient in operating and maintaining ranch machinery.
Irrigation Systems: Experience with designing, installing, and managing efficient water distribution systems.
Water Rights & Management: Understanding of water rights and the ability to manage water resources effectively.
Plumbing & Electrical: Skilled in basic plumbing and electrical work needed for ranch infrastructure.
Carpentry & Construction: Capable of overseeing and participating in the construction and maintenance of ranch buildings and facilities.
Livestock & Animal Care: Experience in managing the health and well-being of livestock, including cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs.
Landscaping & Road Maintenance: Ability to maintain and improve ranch roads, trails, and landscapes.
Pond & Forestry Management: Skilled in managing water bodies, tree felling, and forest maintenance to enhance the ranch ecosystem.
Trail Building & Wildlife Habitat Creation: Experience in creating trails and habitats that support wildlife and enhance the ranch’s natural environment.
Mechanical Skills & Maintenance: Ability to maintain and repair equipment and machinery.
Safety & Security: Strong commitment to ensuring the safety and security of the ranch, its workers, and visitors.
Budgeting & Financial Planning: Experience in managing budgets, financial planning, and securing funding for infrastructure investments.
Leadership & Staff Management: Proven ability to hire, train, and manage a team, fostering a collaborative and productive work environment.
Community & Government Relations: Skilled in working with local communities, government agencies, and other stakeholders to support ranch operations.
Hospitality & Agritourism: While outside the direct scope of this role, familiarity with the principles of hospitality and agritourism is a plus, given future ranch plans.

This position offers a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of the regenerative agriculture movement, leading a ranch that aims to set a new standard for sustainable farming.