Hired Hand/Feed Wagon Operator

Horseback Operation | Housing Provided (Off-Site)

Phone
530-788-5901

Overview

Progressive, growing cattle operation seeking a working couple or two candidates that work well together to support daily cattle and feeding operations. This role is heavily focused on feeding cattle and supporting a growing cattle feeding program.

The operation feeds cattle September through May, with summer months focused on haying, maintenance, and preparing feed pens for the next feeding season. This is a hands on role for a self starter with strong mechanical skills who can work independently without babysitting. The operation is expanding and looking for people who want to help it grow.

This is not a cowboying job. This job is primarily focused on being in a tractor feeding and haying. You will help process cattle that come into the lot. If you know how to ride a horse you may be asked to help occasionally to be horseback. Knowing how to ride a horse is great but not required. Using horses provided by the ranch is preferred, but the operation is open to candidates bringing 1–2 using horses.

Key Responsibilities

Operate a feed wagon daily during the feeding season (September–May)
Feed cattle consistently and efficiently using established rations and schedules
Sorting and working cattle safely in sorting pens and working chute
Run and maintain a bale processor
Perform daily cattle checks while feeding, monitoring health, feed intake, and water systems
Handle cattle calmly and efficiently in pens, alleys, and pastures
Assist with some calving, including monitoring cows, pulling calves when necessary, and pairing out
Being able to ride a horse is not required
Operate ranch equipment including tractors, loaders, feed trucks, processors, skid steers, and bale handling equipment
Perform strong mechanical work, including:
- Equipment maintenance, troubleshooting and repairs
- Greasing, fueling, routine checks, and repairs
- Basic welding skills preferred but not required
Participate in summer haying operations, including:
- Swathing/mowing, raking, baling, hauling
Build, repair, and maintain feed pens in preparation for increased feeding capacity
Being able to weld to repair equipment and fences is a plus but not required
Assist with fencing, water systems, tank maintenance, and general ranch upkeep
Work independently and take initiative without constant supervision

Qualifications

Experience feeding cattle and working in a cow-calf and/or feeding operation
Dependable to show up every day
Strong mechanical skills required
Experience operating feed wagons and bale processors
Calving experience required
Being able to ride a horse is great but not required
Self-starter with the ability to manage daily responsibilities independently
Reliable, dependable, and safe around co workers and livestock
Ability to work as part of a team (or as a couple working together)
No smoking in equipment, vehicles, or housing

Pay & Work Schedule

Starting pay: $20/hour, with increases based on experience and performance
Full-time, year-round position
Schedule varies by season, weather, and workload
Feeding season: September–May
Summer: haying, repairs, pen building, and preparation for expanded feeding operations

Housing & Benefits

Housing provided in a neighboring town approximately 15 minutes from the ranch
Housing is off-site (not in the yard)
Ranch pickup provided for commuting to and from work
Ranch vehicle provided for ranch use
Horses provided by the operation; using horses (1–2) allowed if approved
Beef available
Health insurance not provided

Why This Role

Key role in a growing feeding operation
Opportunity to take ownership and responsibility
No micromanagement looking for capable, motivated people
Long term opportunity for the right couple or employees

Give us a call for any questions (530)788-5901