Audubon California acquired the 6,800-acre Bobcat Ranch in 2007, as part of its ongoing effort to support and encourage the conservation and restoration of blue oak woodlands and rangelands in California. With the support of many partners including government agencies, partner NGOs and the ranching community, staff at Bobcat Ranch are developing infrastructure to allow for improved management of cattle, while continuing the restoration work begun in 2003. Our objective for Bobcat Ranch is for it to be a hub of research, conservation, education and outreach for conservation practitioners, ranchers, and the public. Our ultimate goal is for Bobcat Ranch to be a model of economic and ecological sustainability, serving as a demonstration project promoting regenerative and restorative land management practices for working ranches throughout California.
The Ranch Hand will report directly to the Bobcat Ranch Manager, who will often work alongside this individual as a team. They will perform various field projects primarily relating to livestock operations, ranch management and maintenance, and general operations. The position will interact with members of the public, partners from agencies and other non-profits, and the grazing lessee. While the position will primarily be in the field, there may be components of office administrative work. Work will generally occur Tuesday-Thursday, and occasional weekends during fire season, hunting season, and as needed for special events on weekends. They will work directly with the Ranch Manager, and will often work alone in remote, rugged locations, occasionally in hot and wet weather, and without cell reception. Applicants must be able to work independently. Housing is not provided and must have a reliable mode of transportation to get to Bobcat Ranch.
- Cattle fence maintenance and construction
- Livestock water systems maintenance and construction
- Installation and maintenance of electric fencing for livestock
- Conduct remote property patrols
- Cover shifts during fire season
- Assisting in cattle rotations
- Maintaining and enhancing restoration projects
- Working with subcontractors
- Generally assisting livestock operations project implementation under the direction of the Ranch Manager
- General ranch maintenance and operations
- Perform other duties as assigned
- 3+ years of experience working as a Ranch Hand;
- Working knowledge of grassland ecology and habitat management is preferred;
- Knowledge and appreciation of the ranching culture, range management issues, and sustainable ranching practices is strongly preferred;
- Must possess excellent written and oral communication skills;
- Ability to work independently, take initiative, and make decisions in the absence of specific directions;
- Ability to effectively coordinate with staff, and interact positively with others to advance the Audubon mission;
- Proficient in Microsoft Office including Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Word required, ArcGIS experience helpful; experience in additional systems and platforms a plus;
- Must possess a valid driver's license, have access to personal transportation and be able to work independently;
- Passion for the mission of the Audubon, as well as knowledge or interest in bird conservation initiatives, conservation policy, habitat restoration, and environmental education is ideal;
- Ability to maneuver uneven trails, drive safely on unpaved surfaces, and lift up to 75 lbs with or without accommodation;
- Ability to safely operate a Honda Rancher quad off-road, and 4wd vehicles;
- Working knowledge of livestock fencing and water systems construction and maintenance;
- Ability to use a stick welder, and perform light carpentry;
- Experience safely and gently moving livestock (primarily cattle).