Visit Fort Worth
Apply via URL Link in header
Job Title: Trail Boss
Department: The Herd – Visit Fort Worth
Reports To: President & CEO – Visit Fort Worth
At The Herd, history isn’t just remembered – it’s brought to life. Twice each day, visitors from around the world witness the spirit of the Old West as skilled Drovers lead a herd of Texas longhorns through the streets of the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District.
We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Trail Boss to lead this signature tourism program. This role is about more than livestock management – it’s about preserving history, engaging the public, and ensuring the continued success of one of Fort Worth’s most iconic attractions. The Trail Boss will support a skilled team of Drovers and staff, oversee the care and handling of livestock, and serve as a visible representative of the Fort Worth Stockyards, collaborating with stakeholders, media, and supporting organizations.
Key Responsibilities
Team Leadership & Management
- Lead and develop a high-performing team of Drovers and support staff, fostering a positive culture of accountability and teamwork.
- Serve as a mentor and role model, instilling professionalism, historical accuracy, and a commitment to operational excellence and staff retention.
- Responsible for hiring, training, and performance evaluations, ensuring team members meet high standards for conduct, public engagement, and livestock handling.
- Provide comprehensive and ongoing training in proper riding techniques, livestock handling, and public engagement.
- Provide constructive feedback and positive motivation, recognizing consistency and collaboration.
- Ensure all safety protocols are upheld and enforced for staff, livestock, and spectators, mitigating risks and maintaining a secure environment.
- Manage competing priorities in a dynamic, high-profile environment while maintaining operational effectiveness, team morale, and the overall success of the program.
- Work with Visit Fort Worth CEO to establish department priorities, performance of team members, and operational successes and needs.
Livestock & Program Operations
- Supervise the twice-daily cattle drives and other public appearances, ensuring an engaging and seamless experience for visitors.
- Oversee the care, health, and training of livestock, ensuring proper veterinary care, nutrition, and overall well-being of longhorn cattle and horses.
- Maintain and enforce industry best practices in animal care, ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal animal welfare regulations.
- Maintain all equipment, tack, and vehicles (trailers, trucks, ATVs, etc.), ensuring they remain in top working condition to support daily operations.
Community & Stakeholder Engagement
- Act as a primary liaison between the Herd and with key stakeholders of the Fort Worth Stockyards, including businesses, donors, and visitors.
- Represent The Herd in media appearances, interviews, and public relations efforts, ensuring the positive promotion of Fort Worth’s western heritage.
- Serve as an ambassador for The Herd, Visit Fort Worth, and the Fort Worth Stockyards, strengthening community relationships.
- Develop partnerships with sponsors, event organizers, and tourism organizations to enhance The Herd’s reach and impact.
Financial & Fundraising Oversight
- Manage The Herd’s annual budget, ensuring responsible allocation of funds for staffing, livestock care, and equipment.
- Secure funding through donors, grants, and sponsorships to support essential program needs, including capital purchases and donations such as livestock, equipment, and infrastructure.
- Oversee proper handling and tracking of donated items, ensuring all contributions are utilized effectively.
- Assist with fundraising efforts, sponsorship development, and donor engagement to sustain and grow The Herd operations. Acknowledge all contributions – cash, in-kind and livestock – and work with Visit Fort Worth Marketing on appropriate recognition such as signage, social media, etc.
Marketing, Education & Public Outreach
- Develop and implement public education programs on Texas history, cattle drives, and western heritage. Coordinate and oversee special appearances, photoshoots, and promotional events featuring The Herd. Work with Visit Fort Worth CEO on appropriate time and resources for these efforts.
- Partner with Visit Fort Worth’s Marketing & Communications team to enhance brand awareness, drive visitor engagement, and expand educational outreach.
Qualifications
Required
- 5+ years of experience in livestock management, ranching, rodeo operations, or equestrian programs, with expertise in training, welfare, and adherence to Western riding and safety standards.
- At least 3 years of proven leadership experience in a management or supervisory role, which may come from any industry.
- Demonstrated success in building trust, managing team dynamics, resolving conflicts, motivating teams, and balancing mentorship, accountability, and motivation.
- Adaptability in communication and leadership, tailoring approach from hands-on mentorship with Drovers to strategic collaboration with city officials and engaging public interactions.
- Composure in high-stress situations, including the ability to maintain effective decision- making and leadership under pressure.
- Excellent public speaking, media relations, and stakeholder engagement skills.
- Experience with budget oversight, financial planning, and fundraising efforts.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office, budgeting tools, and operational software relevant to livestock and event management.
Preferred
- Experience with public relations, stakeholder engagement, or tourism programming.
- Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science, Agriculture, Business, or related field.
Working Conditions
- Primarily outdoor work in all weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and wind; exposure to dust, dirt, and animal waste.
- Frequent physical activity, including handling, riding, and managing livestock, often requiring coordination, quick decision-making, and the ability to lift up to 50 lbs.
- Operation of vehicles, trailers, and equipment for the transportation of cattle, horses, and supplies. A valid driver’s license is required for this position.
- High public interaction, including engaging with large crowds, media personnel, city officials, and tourism stakeholders in a professional capacity.
- Occasional travel may be required for special events, promotional appearances, and Herd outreach initiatives.
Our organization is dedicated to showcasing Fort Worth as a captivating destination for travelers worldwide. By highlighting our city’s unique attractions, warm hospitality, and picturesque landscapes, we attract and invite visitors from around the globe to experience the vibrant charm that Fort Worth has to offer.
We believe in teamwork built around three core values: Respect, Collaboration, and Integrity. Tourism is hard work. It’s also rewarding.
Visit Fort Worth is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
Apply via URL Link in header
Visit website here: https://www.fortworth.com/
Email
victoriavallesmiller@fortworth.com
How to Apply for this Ranch Job
Apply NowSee More
Texas Ranch Jobs
Posted In
Administrative/Operations Jobs, All Ranch Jobs, Cattle Ranch Jobs, Equine Jobs, Guest / Dude Ranch Jobs, Horse Care / Training Jobs, Horseback Riding / Trail Guide Jobs, Ranch Foreman Jobs, Ranch Manager Jobs, Resort / Recreational Ranch Jobs, Sales / Marketing Ranch Jobs