Job Description
Job Description
Benefits :
- Basic Life, LTD & AD&D paid by employer
- AFLAC Supplemental Ins. Options
- Retirement Plan (403b) with match after 1 year
- Health, Dental & Vision Insurance
- 8 Paid Holidays + 3 Personal Holidays per year
Summary / Objective
The Ranch Hand / Equipment Operator is a full-time, Agricultural Exempt role which requires ability to operate and maintain tractors, machinery, and equipment. This position will report to the Ranch Manager and oversee all activities related to pasture maintenance, and the feeding and watering of cattle at Buck Island Ranch, a working cattle ranch.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Manage pastures, including chopping, disking, fertilizing, liming, reseeding, and establishing new crops / grass.Ensure cattle have access to adequate water.Determine the timing and level of supplemental feedings; coordinate with feed and other cattle supply vendors, veterinarians, etc.Treat weeds and invasive plant species with appropriate herbicides and other approved techniques.Oversee on-site contractors, including sod and tree harvesters.Assist in day-to-day operational activities involving the care, feeding, and breeding of cattle (cows, bulls, calves) using sound animal husbandry practices to positively impact cattle well-being.Meet deadlines for annual cattle operations.Ensure all tasks are performed in a timely and safe manner.Perform other tasks as assigned by the Ranch Manager.Additional Duties
Operate and maintain tractors, machinery, and equipment.Undertake tasks to keep the grounds and buildings presentable.Responsible for weekend activities as assigned.Assist with unanticipated Ranch issues, such as adverse weather occurrences, power outages, fires, and providing guidance to visitors.Participate in recycling and Ranch environmental service programs.Become familiar with emergency responses.Perform other tasks as assigned by the supervisor / Ranch Manager.Supervisory Responsibility
May supervise day workers on occasion.Work Environment
Work in conditions that include inclement weather, heat, and humidity.Work in close proximity to horses and cattle.Possible exposure to potentially hazardous materials; required to wear appropriate protective clothing and equipment when handling these materials.The work environment for farmers, ranchers, and other agricultural managers can be hazardous. Tractors, tools, other farm machinery, and livestock can cause serious injury, so workers must be alert on the job. They must operate equipment and handle chemicals properly to avoid accidents and safeguard the surrounding environment.Physical Demands
Frequently required to stand or walk for long periods.Occasionally required to lift, push, and pull items up to 50 pounds.Required to reach, stoop, bend, kneel, crouch, or crawl.Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to focus.Position Type / Expected Hours of Work
Typically works 90 hours per week, not eligible for overtime.Must be available to work various shifts, including early morning, evening, and weekend hours with little or no notice.Travel
May occasionally travel to pick up supplies.Required Education and Experience
High School diploma or equivalent preferred.Two or more years of ranch experience, preferably in beef cattle.Competencies and Additional Eligibility Qualifications
Understanding of and commitment to the Archbold mission.Ability to work extended periods independently and with initiative under minimal supervision.Ability to perform assigned tasks with accuracy and attention to detail.