Ranch Manager – Cow/Calf Operation

Full-Time | Reed Point, Montana
$85,000–$100,000 DOE

Overview

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

This position is responsible for leading the operation while also being actively involved in the day-to-day work. You will work alongside the current manager during the transition period to learn the operation, then take full responsibility for running it moving forward.

This is not a sit-behind-a-desk management position. The right person will lead from the front, work alongside the crew, and stay engaged in the daily operations while setting the direction of the ranch.

If you take ownership, think ahead, and want the opportunity to run a high-quality operation while continuing to improve it. This is that opportunity!

The Operation

~800 head cow/calf operation
~15,000 acres of deeded and leased ground
Strong investment in equipment, infrastructure, and cattle genetics
Team of 3 full-time employees
Direct communication with ownership
Located near Reed Point, Montana

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Operational Ownership

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

Cattle & Production Management

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

Team Leadership

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

Facilities, Equipment & Land

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
Oversee hay production, storage, and feeding execution
Manage pasture condition and land use to support long-term productivity

Systems & Efficiency

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
Ability to think ahead, solve problems, and make sound decisions independently
Experience with cattle health, calving, feeding, and herd management
Familiarity with AI programs and herd development preferred
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

Compensation & Benefits

$85,000–$100,000+ DOE
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)