Ranch Manager

Location: Lazy W Ranch – Athens, Texas (Surrounding Area)
Reports To: Owner 
Compensation: Competitive base salary of $150,000 plus annual bonus, health insurance and phone reimbursement.  
Other Benefits:  On-site living quarters provided and Company truck provided

Overview:

Lazy W Ranch is a 2,000-acre working ranch located just outside of Athens, Texas. Home to approximately 200 exotic animals and 50 head of cattle, the ranch is seeking a hands-on, experienced Ranch Manager to oversee all aspects of animal care and land management. This is a full-time, on-site role with significant autonomy and responsibility.

Key Responsibilities:

Animal & Wildlife Management

• Oversee daily feeding schedules for exotic animals and cattle
• Coordinate veterinary care and ensure animal health standards are met
• Maintain compliance with Federal Firearm License (FFL) and U.S. Fish & Wildlife permits
• Monitor behavior, health, and breeding of all livestock and exotic species

Land & Habitat Management

• Implement and maintain erosion control measures
• Plan and execute seasonal food plot planting
• Manage tree health and forestry preservation efforts
• Supervise fencing, water systems, and pasture rotation practices

Equipment & Facility Management

• Maintain all ranch equipment including tractors, ATVs, utility vehicles, and heavy machinery
• Oversee upkeep and service of leased equipment
• Manage hay lease operations and storage planning
• Support overall facility upkeep in collaboration with Housing Manager

Team Leadership & Coordination

• Work closely with the Housing Manager who oversees 14 on-property homes
• Lead and supervise ranch hands and contractors as needed
• Foster a positive, team-oriented culture; respond to feedback constructively

Administrative & Regulatory

• Ensure accurate records for animal inventory, feed schedules, medical treatments, and permits
• Support activities related to Federal Firearm License (FFL) compliance and wildlife permits
• Utilize technology and software to manage scheduling, record-keeping, and communications

Qualifications:

• Proven experience in managing a working ranch, preferably with exotic animals
• Strong mechanical skills for operating and maintaining ranch equipment
• Background in wildlife and/or livestock management
• Experience with land conservation, erosion control, and pasture health
• Familiarity with regulatory permitting (FFL, U.S. Fish & Wildlife)
• Comfortable with computers and basic office software
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Team player with a strong work ethic and the ability to take feedback