Ranch Manager – Cow/Calf Operation

About the role

Talent Solutions is assisting an established cow/calf operation in south-central Montana in hiring a Ranch Manager to step into a hands-on leadership role as part of a planned transition with the current manager.

Responsibilities

• Hold full responsibility for the performance and direction of the ranch
• Make day-to-day operational decisions with direct communication to ownership
• Plan and prioritize labor, feed, and resources to keep the operation running smoothly
• Stay actively involved in daily operations while leading the crew
• Manage operating expenses and coordinate major purchases with ownership
• Oversee logistics including cattle movement, supply coordination, and seasonal planning
• Take full leadership of the operation following the transition period
• Manage all aspects of a ~800 head cow/calf operation
• Oversee herd health protocols and daily cattle observation
• Run calving operations from preparation through completion
• Execute breeding programs including AI coordination and herd development
• Monitor cattle performance, inventory, and records through EID tags
• Direct pasture use, grazing strategy, and cattle flow
• Manage feeding programs and nutritional needs
• Coordinate marketing and sale timing of cattle
• Drive continuous improvement in herd quality and performance
• Lead and manage a team of 4 full-time employees
• Train and develop crew members to improve overall capability
• Assign responsibilities and ensure work is completed to standard
• Set expectations and maintain accountability across the team
• Organize daily workflow and keep the crew aligned on priorities
• Maintain all equipment, facilities, and infrastructure in working condition
• Oversee corrals, barns, fencing, water systems, and ranch improvements
• Keep shop and work areas organized and functional
• Manage maintenance schedules and coordinate repairs
• Manage pasture condition and land use to support long-term productivity
• Maintain accurate and consistent use of cattle tracking software (701X)
• Keep records organized and up to date across the operation
• Identify inefficiencies and implement practical improvements
• Strengthen systems for tracking, communication, and reporting
• Support ownership with clear visibility into ranch performance

Qualifications

• Previous experience managing a cow/calf operation of similar scale
• Proven ability to lead and develop a team
• Strong communication skills and ability to work directly with ownership
• Hands-on operator who leads by example
• Able to think ahead, solve problems, and make sound decisions independently
• Familiarity with AI programs and herd development preferred
• Experience with cattle health, calving, feeding, and herd management
• Comfortable using technology for record keeping and tracking
• Willingness to continuously learn and improve the operation
• High level of pride, accountability, and ownership in your work

Benefits

• Performance-based bonus
• Housing provided
• Utilities included
• Paid Time Off
• Health insurance
• 401(k)
• Family-friendly environment
• Spouse employment opportunities available (on-ranch or flexible based on skillset)

Pay

$85,000–$100,000+ DOE

Schedule

Not specified