Smith River Wilderness Ranch Manager

The Smith River Wilderness Ranch is comprised of approximately 3,040 deeded acres as well as 3,000 acres of US Forest Service, BLM and State grazing. The ranch sits in the foothills of the Little Belt Mountains and functions as a cow/calf operation but primarily as a recreational retreat for the owners, their family and friends. Recreational pursuits include fishing, riding, hiking and hunting.

Agriculturally, the ranch raises approximately 200 to 250 cow calf pairs and raises approximately 300 acres of flood irrigated hay. Agricultural production will be leased to a third party. The Ranch Manager will be responsible for communicating with and monitoring the Agricultural Tenant's use of the property.

The owners are seeking an experienced manager and partner who exhibit a willing and strong work ethic, managerial skills and a positive, proactive attitude. The ideal candidates will be highly competent, flexible, enjoying a broad range of ranch duties and contact with a variety of people.

The managers will report to the owner and will work closely with their management and financial personnel. A weekly report will be submitted via email to the owner on the status of the ranch and the work undertaken. In addition, the successful candidates will be expected to work efficiently with outside contractors and consultants.

Specific functions include:

• Maintenance of ranch infrastructure, fences, buildings and equipment.
• Care of the owner's house and keeping areas surrounding the buildings healthy, well-groomed and pleasing to the eye.
• Operation and maintenance of standard ranch equipment.
• Looking after and riding the ranch horses so that they are ready to be ridden when the owner is there.
• Hiring, supervising, and dismissing all part time help, if any.
• Financial oversight of the ranch including monitoring expenditures, submitting budget reports and maintaining detailed records.
• Maintenance scheduling and upkeep of all residences and outbuildings, vehicles, equipment and tools.
• Development and maintenance of facilities and services required for recreational activities on the ranch.
• Assistance with some recreational activities and comfortable interaction with people from a variety of backgrounds and ages.
• Development of a long-term plan for weed control and forestry management.
• Maintenance of existing fishery and wildlife habitat improvements.
• Ranch security and preventing trespass.
• Representing the owner in the community and maintaining trade accounts.

In addition, the manager and/or his partner will be expected to perform home maintenance, cleaning, grocery shopping and some cooking and laundry.

Specific qualifications include:

• Proven ranch management and leadership skills, high energy and self-esteem, effective written and oral communication skills, ability to effect change on short notice and be a self-starter with a minimum amount of direct supervision.
• Foresight to anticipate issues, problems and the owner's needs as well as provide guidance and work well with suppliers.
• Experience in managing a ranch in similar climatic conditions, in the selection and care of horses, agriculture production with irrigation by gravity, habitat management, outdoor recreation, hospitality, employee supervision and financial skills related to operating a ranch.
• Willingness to assist the owner, their family, and guests as may be requested and maintain a safe and inviting atmosphere on the ranch.
• Competence in the operation of computers, ability to communicate via email and build and navigate basic spreadsheets.

Compensation includes a competitive salary and benefits.