Ranch Hand needed at 33,000-acre Family-owned Ranch in Colorado (Seasonal, May-Nov)

Catspaw Ranch

Location
Chromo, CO
Job Type
Seasonal
Salary
Hourly, competitive BOE
Date Posted
January 24, 2025
Housing Offered
Yes
Experience
2-5 yrs
How to Apply
Via Email

Location: Chromo, Colorado

About the Ranch:

Located in the upper basin of the Navajo River, this 33,000-acre family-owned ranch is dedicated to conservation and ecological health. Spanning elevations from 8,100 to over 12,700 feet, the property encompasses diverse ecosystems, including ponderosa/oak forests, aspen groves, and dark timber highlands. The ranch features abundant water sources, pristine habitats, and thriving wildlife populations such as elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and cutthroat trout.

Position Overview:

The ranch is seeking a dependable and hardworking Ranch Hand for a 7-month seasonal position (May–November). This hands-on role provides an opportunity to work closely with the Ranch Manager and Foreman on conservation-focused land management and ranch operations.

Responsibilities:

Ranch Operations:

  • Fix and maintain fences, irrigation systems, roads, and trails.
  • Care for and exercise 10 horses/mules to keep them prepared for family and guest use.
  • Perform non-chemical invasive species management and forest health monitoring.
  • Use chainsaws, hand tools, UTVs, and occasionally heavy equipment for maintenance tasks.

Conservation Efforts:

  • Participate in wildfire training, elk studies, and water documentation.
  • Monitor and document ecological health and water systems.

Guest & Family Support:

  • Assist in hospitality duties, ensuring family and guest satisfaction during visits.
  • Help oversee an elk outfitter program during September and October, including socializing with guests and assisting with elk pack-outs.

Facilities Maintenance:

  • Maintain gardens, flowerbeds, and facilities to meet family standards.

Qualifications:

  • Honest, dependable, and hardworking with good communication skills and a strong safety mindset.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a remote environment.
  • Experienced in general ranch work, including horse care, chainsaw use and maintenance tasks.
  • Must have a valid driver’s license and pass a background check.

Compensation & Benefits:

  • Hourly competitive pay TBD according to applicant’ skill set and experience.
  • On-site housing and utilities provided. Housing will be likely be with one or two other Ranch hands of larger ranch.
  • Ranch vehicle and gas provided for work purposes only
  • Hands-on experience in conservation land management.

Additional Information:

  • The ranch is located in a remote area with limited cell service, approximately 45 miles from Pagosa Springs, CO.
  • This is an at-will position, and confidentiality is a key expectation.
  • Working under the influence of drugs or alcohol is grounds for termination.

To Apply:

Please send resume with references to our email address listed.

Email
[email protected]

How to Apply for this Ranch Job

Apply Now

See More

Posted In
, , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Want ranch & farm jobs delivered to your inbox every Monday?