Cowboy-Norias 1182

 Role Summary:

Perform cattle work in cow/calf and stocker units.  Must be able to work alone and with others.  Desires to learn and is willing to comprehend and abide by strict animal management protocols as set forth by King Ranch Animal Welfare.  This individual is expected and encouraged to provide input when necessary or appropriate, while maintaining a respect for authority and the chain of command. 

What to Expect in the Role:

• Must understand, appreciate, and implement high standards of humane and productive animal husbandry practices. 


• Willingness to learn, comprehend, and abide by strict protocols and schedules for feeding and mineral programs, vaccination and processing protocols, sanitary standards, and managing cattle according to the protocols outlined in the King Ranch Cattle Calendar and Herd Health program.


• Must have appreciation for the importance of water, minerals, and supplemental feeding programs in maintenance of cow body condition and their effect on cattle fertility and production.  


• Must understand what it means to be a “Cowboy” (i.e. putting the livestock in their care as the highest priority related to their job) and “riding for the Running W brand.” Must be willing to take personal accountability and responsibility for the care and oversight of the cattle and horses in their unit.


• Must be able to take constructive criticism and/or guidance from their supervisor, and function in a team environment.  This includes becoming aware and abiding by the same duties and responsibilities expected of a Unit Manager.


• Must saddle, mount and ride horses in performance of general ranch cattle work.


• Must be able to use chainsaws, drills, and other power and mechanical equipment in a safe manner for the repair and maintenance of fences/pens/water facilities, working areas, etc.


• Must be able to work with and around livestock (including performance of such functions as castrating, dehorning, branding, and vaccination of various classes of cattle.

• Ability to follow directions from a supervisor, as well as read and follow written protocols and policies that might be handed out from time to time.


• Ability to interact effectively with coworkers and appreciate and abide by the chain of command.


• Willingness to provide input and communicate with supervisor relative to any issues that might impact your job performance or the successful operation of your unit.


• Must be willing to work overtime and occasionally on weekends as the job requirements or other emergencies might demand.


• Must report to work on time and give sufficient notice to supervisor of vacation or non-emergency absences.


• Must have a valid State driver’s license.


• General understanding of (and ability and willingness to perform) simple maintenance and repairs on pens, fences, gates, water facilities, etc.


• High School Diploma or equivalent.


• Prior cattle and horseback experience on a large scale.