Ranch Hand – Cow/Calf Operation

Talent Solutions • Central Montana, MT

4d • Onsite

About The Position

A well-established, family-run cattle operation in central Montana is looking for a Ranch Hand to become a key part of their operation. This is a full-time, year-round position on a working cow/calf ranch running approximately 250 head. The role covers everything from calving and haying to moving cattle and daily feeding and requires someone who can read cattle, handle horses, operate equipment, and take ownership of their responsibilities without being micromanaged. This is a hands-on, all-seasons position best suited for someone or a family that knows and enjoys ranch life, respects the land, and is looking for a place to put down roots. There is opportunity for future growth within this operation!

Requirements

• 3–5 years of hands-on ranch experience required; strong cow sense is a must
• Able to ride horses and work cattle horseback
• Experience operating haying and feeding equipment
• Able to work independently and manage daily responsibilities without supervision
• Experience moving and sorting cattle in both open pasture and rough terrain
• Clean driving record; able to operate pickup and trailer
• Dependable, honest, and low-drama someone who shows up and gets it done
• Comfortable in a remote, rural setting; experience in dry or high plains country strongly preferred
• Even-keeled personality; takes direction well and works within an established operation without ego

Responsibilities

• Feed cattle daily using a tractor and two-bale processor; adjust rations and schedules based on season and herd location
• Check and maintain water tanks daily a critical and non-negotiable part of this role
• Monitor cow/calf pairs, identify health issues early, and respond accordingly know when a calf has sucked, spot a bad bag, and recognize a cow that needs attention
• Assist with calving; kicking out pairs, monitor herd, and support the operation through one of its busiest seasons
• Move, gather, sort, and trail cattle to summer pasture; assist with preconditioning, shipping, and feedlot transport in the fall
• Participate in branding, processing, and post-shipping cow work
• Go horseback through cattle to check bulls, assess herd condition, and cover ground that equipment can't
• Assist with haying including mowing, raking, baling, and moving bales; operate all equipment safely and without unnecessary wear
• Build and repair fence and perform general ranch maintenance as needed
• Monitor pastures, reservoirs, and water systems; identify and complete tasks independently without waiting to be told

Benefits

• $3,000–$3,500/month DOE
• Housing provided remodeled 2-bedroom farmhouse with full basement, 2 bathrooms, private yard
• Utilities included
• Half a beef provided annually
• Up to 3 horses
• Well-mannered dogs welcome
• Flexible time off outside of peak seasons
• Long-term, stable opportunity with room to grow within the operation for the right person

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed