Ranch Manager Couple - Carlsbad, NM

Seeking Ranch Manager Couple for large ranch on the New Mexico/Texas border.  The couple will manage overall ranch and water operations.  The ranch is a privately owned, multi-generation family ranch and the primary purpose is for the preservation of the asset and enjoyment of the family.  Although the property includes livestock, it is not a cow-calf operation.  Compensation package includes salary, bonus opportunity, truck for ranch use, housing, and utilities.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of a 50,000-acre ranch.
• Direct and manage ranch hands, vendors, and contractors.
• Maintain accuracy and efficiency in quality, inventory, production, and record keeping of water sold for oilfield use.
• Maintain operating cost records and identify areas for savings.
• Maintain buildings and structures, windmills, and water wells.
• Build and maintain roads.
• Repair fences and mechanical equipment.
• Maintain integrity of pastures and land.
• Prep barn and equipment when extreme temperatures occur.
• Maintain cleanliness, appearance and organization of barn, pastures, ranch vehicles, and equipment.
• Daily checks of fencing, gates, and cattleguards to ensure proper working order. Repair as necessary.

SECONDARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Liaise with Office Manager at corporate office in Dallas regarding water sales and vendor invoices.
• Work with water purchasers to schedule pickups.
• Feed cattle and horses.
• Run ranch errands.
• Prepare meals for ranch hands, as needed.

PRIMARY MANAGER REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Ranch Management a plus.  
• 15+ years of strong business management and leadership experience in ranch ownership or ranch management.
• Someone raised on a ranch is a plus. Some knowledge of cattle and farming.
• Ability to weld, operate a tractor, and other heavy equipment including power and hand tools.
• Handyman & mechanical skills for ranch, house, barn, vehicle, and equipment maintenance.
• Skilled in saddling and riding a horse. Ability to shoe horses a plus.
• Physically able to work outdoors in all types of weather and on uneven terrain.

GENERAL COUPLE REQUIREMENTS:

• Oversee/keep property at guest ready level at all times.
• Must have good computer skills.
• Must be flexible with work schedule as this is not a typical 8 – 5 position.
• Must be able to pass a criminal background screen and hold a valid driver’s license.
• Professionally represent the ranch at all times.
• Excellent people skills.