Forks Ranch - Unit Manager

Unit Manager Job Announcement: Padlock Ranch Company

Forks Unit Manager: Padlock Ranch Company is currently seeking a highly motivated and skilled individual to provide management of a large commercial cattle unit. 

Position Focus:  The person in this position is responsible for oversight of day-to-day operations of the Padlock Ranch – Forks Unit, located on Hanging Woman Creek east of Decker, MT. This ranch unit is comprised of approximately 130,000 acres, on the Wyoming-Montana state line, of which the majority is deeded. In the current system, the Forks Unit runs a herd of approximately 2000 mother cows with up to about 3,000 additional cows in the winter. This position is responsible for oversight of up to two full-time camp positions and seasonal or day workers from time to time. This is a working manager position with the individual involved heavily in cattle management, grazing management, health, timely pasture movements, inventory management, well and water system maintenance, and asset improvement projects. Responsibilities also include overseeing branding, bull turnout, weaning, feeding/supplementation, and making water available to cows.  It will be important to organize, help, and direct employees to achieve excellence in animal health care, nutrition, and husbandry. The individual will need to work as a team player and coordinate labor and equipment needs with others on the management team. The individual is expected to be innovative and make continuous progress on ranch operations. The position will report to the Padlock Ranch Livestock Manager.

Qualifications: 

·       A minimum of 8 years of livestock/ranch experience and demonstrated competence in animal health, grazing management, and cow nutritional management.

·       A minimum of 2 years of experience in supervision and coordination of staff and operational activities.

·       Experience in working with/on wells is preferred.

·       Experience in and willingness to use minimal stress animal handling techniques and exhibit good horsemanship skills.

·       Good people and communication skills.

·       Demonstrated leadership experience and skills.

·       The ability to use Microsoft Excel and email.

·       Must be able to live remotely (approximately 1.5 hours from town).

Our Company: Padlock Ranch was founded in 1943 by Homer Scott. The Scott Family still owns the ranch today. As a diversified cow-calf, farming, and feedlot operation, we strive for excellence in human resources, natural resource management, profitability, community, and maintaining the ranch as an emblem for the Scott Family. More information can be found at padlockranch.com.

Compensation: Competitive salary and benefits, including housing, vehicle, health insurance, vacation and a 401K plan.

Application: Please send resume and inquiries to JD Hill: 307-461-0503; jd@padlockranch.com; 8420 US Hwy 14, Ranchester, WY 82839.