Careers
Dude Ranch Employment Opportunities
Explore Dude Ranch Employment Opportunities
Management
Office/Guest Services
Location: Vista Verde Ranch – Colorado
Description of Duties:
The office staff creates a seamless experience for the guest from the discovery of Vista Verde to post stay. They manage inquiries, book reservations, check guests in and out, collect pertinent information and distribute it to other departments, organize guest transportation, book ranch activities as well as outfitter activities, organize special events, and are the overall link between the guests and the staff
Type of work: Year-Round
Dates: December 9, 2024 – December 01, 2025
How to Apply: https://www.vistaverde.com/job-opportunities/online-job-application/ or send in resume to jobs@vistaverde.com
More Information: https://www.vistaverde.com/job-opportunities/
Other Information: Mette Rousseau – jobs@vistaverde.com
All-Around Seasonal Staff
Wranglers
Location: Vista Verde Ranch – Colorado
Description of Duties:
It is essential that wranglers have considerable equine experience, as they are responsible for the safety of both our guests and our animals. Wranglers prepare for and lead trail rides, offer riding instruction, and are responsible for the care and well-being of our herd of 100 horses. Applicants need strong interpersonal skills, and must be willing to work with both adults and children. Candidates must be 21 or older and hold current up-to-date CPR/First Aid certification.
Type of Work: Seasonal
Dates: December 09, 2024 – March 23, 2025
How to Apply: https://www.vistaverde.com/job-opportunities/online-job-application/ or email resume to jobs@vistaverde.com
More Information: https://www.vistaverde.com/job-opportunities/
Other Information: Mette Rousseau – jobs@vistaverde.com
Food & Beverage
Location: Sundance Trail Guest Ranch – Colorado
Description of Duties:
Sundance Trail Guest Ranch is looking for a talented and dedicated Head Cook to join our kitchen team on contract basis, with the potential for a full-time, year-round role. If you love cooking hearty meals, working in a vibrant ranch setting, and engaging with guests, this could be the perfect opportunity for you!
Key Responsibilities:
- Meal Preparation:
Create hearty, western-style meals for around 35 people daily, including 20-25 guests and 5-10 staff members. Meals are served family-style in the dining room, on the porch, at picnic tables, or even out on the trail. - Baking:
Bake delicious desserts and cookies in large quantities to delight our guests with homemade treats. - Special Diets:
Prepare therapeutic and special diets as needed, with guidance from management. - Inventory Management:
Manage the kitchen’s food and supplies inventory, ensuring the pantry is well-stocked. Handle grocery shopping as required. - Compliance & Safety:
Ensure the kitchen meets all Health Department Safety Standards and regulations, maintaining a safe and sanitary environment. - Kitchen Maintenance:
Keep the kitchen spotless, taking care of dishes, pots, and pans, and ensuring the workspace is organized and clean. - Ranch Support:
Occasionally assist with other ranch activities, such as helping children collect eggs from the henhouse or supporting wranglers, maintenance staff, and managers. Light housekeeping duties may also be required from time to time, all to help create an unforgettable guest experience. - Guest Engagement:
Help foster a welcoming atmosphere by engaging guests with stories and humor, contributing to the warm and lively ranch environment.
Qualifications:
- Culinary Experience: Proven experience as a cook or chef, ideally in a similar environment with a focus on hearty, western-style cooking.
- Baking Skills: Strong ability to bake large quantities of desserts and cookies.
- Special Diet Knowledge: Familiarity with preparing therapeutic or special diets is a plus.
- Health & Safety Compliance: Knowledge of Health Department Safety Standards and kitchen safety regulations.
- Organizational Skills: Ability to manage inventories, maintain a clean kitchen, and keep operations running smoothly.
- Team Player: Willingness to assist with various tasks across the ranch as needed, working collaboratively with staff.
- Personality: Friendly, with strong communication skills and a good sense of humor to engage with both staff and guests.
Perks:
- Room & Board: Enjoy on-site accommodation and meals at the ranch.
- Tips: Earn additional income through tips based on guest satisfaction.
- Promotion Opportunity: Potential for full-time, year-round employment based on performance.
If you’re passionate about cooking, love the outdoors, and want to contribute to a memorable guest experience at a Colorado dude ranch, we’d love to hear from you!
Type of work: Year Round
Dates: ASAP
How to Apply: Please complete our online job application and submit your resume along with a brief cover letter outlining your culinary experience and why you’d be a great fit for this role.
Other Information:
More Information: Compensation: Competitive pay + tips (room & board included)
Location: C Lazy U Ranch – Colorado
Description of Duties:
Move to the heart of the Rocky Mountains! Since 1919, the C Lazy U guest ranch in Colorado has been celebrated around the world for its rich history, rustic elegance, legendary cuisine, and signature service. There is something (and then some) for everyone who enjoys luxury dude ranch vacations. Kids enjoy adventure and discovery while adults do everything they want, or nothing at all. JOB SUMMARY: Servers are responsible for food service and attendant functions, such as maintenance of the dining room and specified kitchen areas, and buffet set-up. Servers have a significant amount of contact with guests and greatly influence the guests’ overall enjoyment of the Ranch experience. A waitperson should make a guest feel truly welcome. He or she will learn the names of the guests and address them by their first name. A successful waitperson is quick with a smile, friendly, outgoing, eager to serve, and exceptionally courteous. He or she is self-motivated and competent in performing all duties, both in preparation for meals and in providing guest service. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: • Set up and clean up for meals. • Guest and staff food service. • Maintenance of east and west server closets. • Maintenance of dining room sideboards and their contents. • Maintenance of linen cupboard and its contents. • Maintenance of reach-in, vegetable sink, and countertops. • Maintenance of server area at the pool kitchen. • Assist other departments, when necessary, i.e. housekeeping, dishwashers & ranch hands.
Type of work: Year-Round
How to Apply: www.clazyu.com/employment/
Other Information: www.clazyu.com
More Information: Compensation Compensation for non-exempt employees is paid as an hourly wage. Meals are provided as a benefit of employment. Housing can be provided below market rate. A tip pool for hourly employees may also be paid.
Location: Rancho de los Caballeros – Arizona
Description of Duties:
Restaurant serve for main ding room and fine dining restaurant
Type of work: Seasonal
Dates: September 1, 2024 – June 1, 2025
How to Apply: Website or send resume to gmcgann@ranchodeloscaballeros.com
Other Information: ranchodeloscaballeros.com
More Information: Housing is available
Location: Rancho de los Caballeros – Arizona
Description of Duties:
Bartending in our Saloon, Banquets or Club Grill
Type of work: Seasonal
Dates: September 1, 2024 – June 1, 2025
How to Apply: Website or send resume to gmcgann@ranchodeloscaballeros.com
Other Information: ranchodeloscaballeros.com
More Information: Housing is available
Location: Rancho de los Caballeros – Arizona
Description of Duties:
Cook for our Main Dining Room or Fine Dining Restaurant
Type of work: Seasonal
Dates: September 1, 2024 – June 1, 2025
How to Apply: Website or send resume to gmcgann@ranchodeloscaballeros.com
Other Information: ranchodeloscaballeros.com
More Information: Housing is available
Location: Circle Z Ranch – Arizona
Description of Duties:
Circle Z Ranch will be filling a Cook position for our upcoming 2024-2025 guest season opening October 27th, 2024. The position has a start date of October 14th, 2024, and ends early May 2025. Circle Z Ranch is seeking a Cook that can meet our high standards of delicious, homemade meals while incorporating their own recipes and flair. We serve a variety of cuisines and special diets including, but not limited to, Hypoallergenic, Vegan, Vegetarian, Asian, Mexican, and Italian. We provide an assortment of tried-and-true Circle Z recipes that are the building blocks for your weekly menus. The Cook position will require exceptional communication and organization skills, as well as the ability to perform multiple culinary tasks including cooking, baking, prepping, and planning. Essential Functions: • Assist with daily preparation of baked goods from scratch for ranch and staff (30-70 individuals) • Assist in preparation for other meals and hors d’ oeuvres • Prepare for three weekly cookouts • Prepare sack lunches for guests on all day rides • Comply with Santa Cruz Health Department requirements • Review food costs with supervisor and maintain budgetary expectations • Plan and communicate inventory needs with cooks and supervisor • Check quality of food and supplies • Responsible for kitchen cleanliness • Leave kitchen clean and ready for the next shift • Efficiently adjust to last minute changes • Attend staff and department meetings Required Qualifications: • High School Diploma or GED • 3-5 years of experience cooking in guest ranches or restaurants • Culinary Arts certificate • Ability to communicate in English both verbally and in writing • Ability to use technology to communicate, plan, and order provisions • Excellent physical condition and stamina to work irregular and long hours • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. • Food Handler’s Certificate (Circle Z Ranch will provide this training if hired). Working Conditions for the Cook position include: • Standing for long periods of time, lifting, reaching, stooping • Working with and around sharp kitchen implements, appliances, and equipment • Working with and around high temperatures from ovens, stoves, grills, and other kitchen appliances • Working weekends, nights, and holidays • Extended periods of work without time off may be required The specific requirements, duties and skills set forth in this job description are intended to be all-inclusive as of date this document is prepared. Circle Z Ranch reserves the right to modify this job description at any time. This job description may not contain all the duties you may be asked to perform during the period you work at the ranch. Further, the job description is not a guarantee that you will perform any of these duties.
Type of work: Seasonal
Dates: October 14, 2024 – May 4, 2025
How to Apply: http://circlezranch.wpengine.com/about-us/employment/letter-to-applicants/
Other Information: Welcome to The Circle Z Ranch! As an employee, you will be welcomed into an environment where team work is emphasized and individuals are treated with respect and gratitude. The Managers and Owners are positive, friendly, and have created a down to earth environment. We expect all employees to work hard and to have a positive attitude towards fellow staff and guests. We employ 18-22 staff members, some living on site and some living in the outlying area. Our season for staff runs from the middle of October to the early part of May. We look forward to visiting with you about potential employment! We provide clean and comfortable housing for our staff Meals provided for staff are healthy and delicious You will work as part of a team in a positive environment Arizona winters are mild, with lots of sunshine Enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, horseback riding, biking and exploring nature The ranch is located in a breathtaking setting, yet within a short drive to town It is highly recommended that individuals have their own form of transportation General Requirements for all job applicants Physical Requirements: Standing, walking, lifting up to 50 lbs., climbing, stooping, kneeling, seeing, crouching, crawling, reaching, speaking and hearing. Must be able to reach with arms extended above head for periods of time. Specific Skills: Ability to understand and follow oral and written directions and the ability to work closely with others in a professional manner Education/Experience: High School Diploma or GED Thank you for taking the time to apply at the Circle Z Ranch! Please download the Employee Application. Email applications and resumes to info@circlez.com. If you have any questions, please call the ranch at 520-394-2525
More Information: https://www.circlez.com/employment/apply
Location: Circle Z Ranch – Arizona
Description of Duties:
Circle Z Ranch will be filling several Server positions for our upcoming 2024-2025 guest season opening October 27th, 2024. These positions have a start date of October 14th, 2024, and ends early May 2025. We are seeking individuals who are energetic, friendly, and responsible. If you are a hard worker, resourceful and able adjust to the flexible nature of ranch life, we want you on our team. At Circle Z, we value Ranch style teamwork and expect everyone to pitch in as needed to give our guests the most memorable ranch experience. ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES Wait Staff Duties: • Prompt preparation of dining areas for meals • Take meal orders from guests when serving short order breakfast • Serve meals and beverages to guests • Set up buffet table for meals • Set tables with appropriate dishes, napkins, etc. • Clear tables after meals • Organize and clean server closets • Clean dining room, lodge living room, porch, bathroom, cantina, and the kitchen servery • Help pack food and utensils for rides and picnics • Assist with food prep as needed • Ensure inventory is plentiful and organized • Assist Housekeeping with daily maid service as needed • Launder and fold all linens, bedding, table napkins, etc. • Various other duties required to keep our ranch immaculate • Wash staff and guest dishes on a rotational basis with scheduled wait staff team member Physical Requirements: • The position requires excellent physical condition and stamina. Hours tend to be irregular and long. Extended periods of work without time off may be required. • Holidays will require additional work hours. Specific Skills Required: • Ability to understand and follow oral and written directions in English • Ability to be flexible and follow direction from ranch management • Ability to adjust to changes in Itinerary • Strong and positive communication skills • Ability to merge seamlessly between various tasks and departments Education/Experience: • High School Diploma or GED • 1-2 years serving experience • 1-2 years housekeeping experience The specific requirements, duties, and skills set forth in this job description are intended to be all-inclusive as of date this document is prepared. Circle Z Ranch reserves the right to modify this job description at any time. This job description may not contain all the duties you may be asked to perform during the period you work at the ranch. Further, the job description is not a guarantee that you will perform any of these duties.
Type of work: Seasonal
Dates: October 14, 2024 – May 4, 2025
How to Apply: http://circlezranch.wpengine.com/about-us/employment/letter-to-applicants/
Other Information: Welcome to The Circle Z Ranch! As an employee, you will be welcomed into an environment where teamwork is emphasized and individuals are treated with respect and gratitude. The Managers and Owners are positive, friendly, and have created a down to earth environment. We expect all employees to work hard and to have a positive attitude towards fellow staff and guests. We employ 18-22 staff members, some living on site and some living in the outlying area. Our season for staff runs from the middle of October to the early part of May. We look forward to visiting with you about potential employment! We provide clean and comfortable housing for our staff Meals provided for staff are healthy and delicious You will work as part of a team in a positive environment Arizona winters are mild, with lots of sunshine Enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, horseback riding, biking and exploring nature The ranch is located in a breathtaking setting, yet within a short drive to town It is highly recommended that individuals have their own form of transportation
More Information: https://www.circlez.com/employment/apply
Location: Circle Z Ranch – Arizona
Description of Duties:
Circle Z Ranch will be filling a Kitchen Aide position for our upcoming 2024-2025 guest season opening October 27th, 2024. The position has a start date of October 21st, 2024, and ends early May 2025. Circle Z Ranch is seeking a Kitchen Aide that can meet our high standards of exemplary customer service and cleanliness. We serve a variety of cuisines and special diets including, but not limited to, Hypoallergenic, Vegan, Vegetarian, Asian, Mexican, and Italian. Attention to detail and cleanliness, along with a friendly and energetic personality are a must for this position. The Kitchen Aide position will require exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail. Essential Functions: • Wash dishes for crew, guest, and kitchen according to procedure • Bus tables • Clean dishwashing area thoroughly every day • Sweep and mop kitchen floors • Comply with Santa Cruz County Health Department requirements • Build a fire in Lodge living room prior to each meal and tend that fire • Build a fire in Cantina at 5:30 pm • Clean both fireplaces on Sundays and throughout the day as needed • Ensure plenty of firewood is available for guests in Lodge • Keep front porch and back patio swept • Assist with special functions of the ranch such as Trailer Rides, Picnics, Breakfast and Chuckwagon rides • Efficiently adjust to last minute changes • Attend staff and department meetings Required Qualifications: • High School Diploma or GED • Ability to be flexible and follow direction from supervisor • Strong and positive communication skills • Ability to understand and follow written and oral directions • Excellent physical condition and stamina to work irregular and long hours • Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. Working Conditions for the Kitchen Aide position: • Standing for long periods of time, lifting, reaching, stooping • Working indoors and outdoors, occasionally in inclement weather • Working with sharp kitchen implements, appliances, and equipment • Working with and around high temperatures from ovens, stoves, grills, food warmers, and other kitchen appliances • Working weekends, nights, and holidays • Extended periods of work without time off may be required The specific requirements, duties and skills set forth in this job description are intended to be all-inclusive as of date this document is prepared. Circle Z Ranch reserves the right to modify this job description at any time. This job description may not contain all the duties you may be asked to perform during the period you work at the ranch. Further, the job description is not a guarantee that you will perform any of these duties.
Type of work: Seasonal
Dates: October 21, 2024 – May 4, 2025
How to Apply: http://circlezranch.wpengine.com/about-us/employment/letter-to-applicants/
Other Information: Welcome to The Circle Z Ranch! As an employee, you will be welcomed into an environment where teamwork is emphasized and individuals are treated with respect and gratitude. The Managers and Owners are positive, friendly, and have created a down to earth environment. We expect all employees to work hard and to have a positive attitude towards fellow staff and guests. We employ 18-22 staff members, some living on site and some living in the outlying area. Our season for staff runs from the middle of October to the early part of May. We look forward to visiting with you about potential employment! We provide clean and comfortable housing for our staff Meals provided for staff are healthy and delicious You will work as part of a team in a positive environment Arizona winters are mild, with lots of sunshine Enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, horseback riding, biking and exploring nature The ranch is located in a breathtaking setting, yet within a short drive to town It is highly recommended that individuals have their own form of transportation
More Information: https://www.circlez.com/employment/apply
Location: Vista Verde Ranch – Colorado
Description of Duties:
Seeking a clean working chef with previous experience and the ability to work in all areas of the kitchen. Would be responsible for food prep, proper sanitation practices, line work, as well as effectively working with the culinary team. Must have a willingness to serve and positively interact with staff and guests.
Type of work: Seasonal
Dates: May 14, 2024 – December 1, 2024
How to Apply: https://www.vistaverde.com/job-opportunities/online-job-application/
Other Information: Contact jobs@vistaverde.com
Location: Vista Verde Ranch – Colorado
Description of Duties:
Be a part of the guest’s favorite culinary experience! The Pastry Chef Assistant will be a part of providing all things breakfast, baked goods, and desserts. Must value an organized, efficient, and clean work space, be teachable, reliable with early mornings, and willing to study and learn from one of the best. An understanding of reading recipes, using a scale, and knowledge of cooking measurements is required.
Type of work: Seasonal
Dates: May 14, 2024 – December 1, 2024
How to Apply: https://www.vistaverde.com/job-opportunities/online-job-application/
Other Information: Contact jobs@vistaverde.com
Housekeeping
Location: Upper Canyon Outfitters & Guest Ranch – Montana
Description of Duties:
This position will be a “floater”. Duties will include housekeeping, meal service, lawn care and any other job that may arise! Duties of the All Around Help Housekeeping Kitchen Help Lawn Care Any other duties that may arise Schedule Thursday – Monday Hours vary based on that day’s duties Characteristics of a Good Candidate Flexibility! This job can change by the day or the hour, so this person must be open to changing tasks. Effective communication skills. We will want this person to be able to communicate clearly and in a friendly manner with our guests and staff team. Multitasker. This job can have 100 things happening at once! This person will have to be able to be flexible and open to interruptions. Initiative. This person will have to be a self-starter that is responsible to keep themselves busy.
Type of work: Seasonal
Dates: 7/19/2024 – 12/01/2024
How to Apply: https://forms.gle/KJJwXCRTk5eHitAo6
More Information: Cassie Ubaldo – ucomontana@gmail.com
Other Information:
Activities Guide
Location: The Retreat at Silvies Valley Ranch – Oregon
Description of Duties:
Join our team at a prestigious five-star luxury golf resort, spa, and dude ranch in Eastern Oregon. You will play a pivotal role in ensuring exceptional guest services and cultivating unique experiences for our guests.
You will be pivotal in providing guests with unforgettable experiences during cross-country skiing, shooting, ATV tours, fishing, and other outdoor activities we offer. Your responsibilities will encompass various tasks, ensuring the smooth operation and the well-being of guests.
Key Responsibilities:
Cross Country Skiing: Guiding and instructing, helping groom trails ATV Tours: Guide guests through 1-2hr long ATV tours of the ranch, and other outdoor activities, ensuring their safety and enjoyment. ATV Maintenance: Be part of the day-to-day maintenance and care of golf carts & ATVs – (cleaning, checking tire pressure, oil) ensuring they are in optimal condition for guest use. Gain Knowledge of Ranch History and Ecology: Share this knowledge with guests during tours (with 2-4 guests) to enhance their overall experience. General Resort Duties: Assist with general resort duties, contributing to the neatness of common areas, porches, and other shared spaces.
Qualifications: Previous experience as a guide or ranger in outdoor recreational activities on your own or with friends. Knowledge of firearms a MUST Black Powder Shooting knowledge a PLUS Familiarity with ATVs, fishing, snowshoeing Basic knowledge of golf (most guests are golfers) Cross Country Skiing Experience a MUST Good communication and interpersonal skills – outgoing friendly personality. Ability to handle diverse responsibilities and adapt to changing situations. This role offers a unique opportunity to be integral to the Silvies Valley Ranch experience, providing guests with memorable mini-adventures and a deeper connection to the ranch’s rich history and ecology.
All Team Members cross-train in other departments as needed. If you are interested and want to learn more about this position, please submit your resume! $23.00 per hour plus tips and bonus 30-50 hours per week
Benefits: • Employee discount • PTO • Housing for a low monthly cost.
Type of Work: Year Round
Dates: ASAP
How to Apply: Email us at jobs@silvies.us
More Information: https://silvies.us/employment.php
We are looking for an energetic outdoorsy person to be ATV / Shooting Guide & Cross-Country Instructor. You must have experience with cross-country skiing and firearms.
Location: Vista Verde Ranch – Colorado
Description of Duties:
At Vista Verde Ranch, we believe in providing safe and compelling walk and wade fly fishing trips along the beautiful freestone Elk and Yampa Rivers. The role as a fly-fishing guide is to create an unforgettable experience for our guests while maintaining a high level of professionalism and care. Fly fishing guides at Vista Verde have the unique opportunity of sight fishing for native cutthroats on the Elk River, as well as cast to big browns and rainbows on private stretches of the Yampa River. Requirements: -Understanding of fly-fishing mechanics and instruction -Preferred minimum 2 years’ experience in fly fishing industry or recreationally -Minimum CPR/First-Aid -21+ years or older -Clean Driver’s License Expectations: -Conduct safe, compelling, educational trips for our guests in various settings -Teach fly fishing fundamentals including; casting clinics, and fly fishing on flat water and moving water a range of ages and abilities -Ability to quickly assess and adapt daily plan -Ability to read pocket water in freestone rivers -Basic knowledge of entomology Provided: -Wide range of rods for each guide trip (3-6 weight) -All flies provided by the ranch -Waders and boots for clients and guides -Streamside equipment and terminal tackle -Ranch vehicle
Type of work: Seasonal
Dates: May 14, 2024 – December 1, 2024
How to Apply: https://www.vistaverde.com/job-opportunities/online-job-application/
More Information: Contact jobs@vistaverde.com
Grounds & Maintenance
Location: Upper Canyon Outfitters and Guest Ranch – Montana
Description of Duties:
Upper Canyon Outfitters is seeking a skilled and reliable Maintenance Person to join our team. This individual will be responsible for a variety of maintenance and repair tasks, including upkeep of side-by-sides, basic building maintenance, and some farming activities. The Maintenance Person will also be in charge of lawn care and irrigation, which includes moving dams twice a day. Housing is available for the right candidate.
Key Responsibilities:
- Perform maintenance and repairs on side-by-side vehicles.
- Conduct basic building maintenance, including plumbing, electrical, and carpentry tasks.
- Assist with farming activities, such as planting, harvesting, and general farm upkeep.
- Mow lawns and maintain landscaping to ensure a neat and welcoming appearance.
- Manage irrigation systems, including moving dams twice daily to ensure proper water distribution.
- Maintain a clean and organized work environment.
- Respond promptly to maintenance requests and issues.
- Ensure all tools and equipment are in good working condition.
- Collaborate with team members to complete tasks efficiently and effectively.
Qualifications:
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Proven experience in maintenance, repair, and general building upkeep.
- Basic knowledge of vehicle maintenance, particularly side-by-sides.
- Familiarity with farming practices and equipment is preferred.
- Ability to operate lawn care equipment and irrigation systems.
- Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
- Excellent time management and organizational skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Good physical condition and the ability to lift heavy objects.
- Valid driver’s license.
Benefits:
- Competitive salary based on experience.
- Housing included for the right candidate.
- Opportunity to work in a beautiful outdoor setting.
- Friendly and supportive work environment.
Type of work: Seasonal
Dates: ASAP
How to Apply: Interested candidates should fill out this application. Questions can be directed to Cassie Ubaldo at ucomontana@gmail.com
Upper Canyon Outfitters is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Application link: https://forms.gle/NB2RQfuomCqaRm5CA
Other Information:
Work Schedule: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
About Upper Canyon Outfitters: Upper Canyon Outfitters is a premier outdoor adventure destination offering exceptional experiences in hunting, fishing, and horseback riding. Nestled in the beautiful [specific location, e.g., mountains of Montana], our outfitters provide guests with unforgettable experiences in nature. We pride ourselves on maintaining a well-kept and efficient operation to ensure our guests have the best possible stay.
Have your information sent to ranches actively seeking employees!
Each year our 90+ member ranches offer a variety of dude ranch employment opportunities. They hire many seasonal employees, and some year-round employees, for such positions as wranglers, cooks, waitstaff, housekeepers, maintenance workers, children’s counselors, office workers, and more! Other great opportunities are presented through working at a Dude Ranchers’ Association member ranch like being eligible for The Dude Ranch Foundation Scholarship. The Dude Ranch Foundation is committed to investing in future leaders in the dude ranch industry. The DRF Scholarship Program provides financial assistance and encouragement to students pursuing an educational program that will help perpetuate the dude ranch industry and Western Culture. To learn more about The Dude Ranch Foundation Scholarship program, click here: https://www.duderanchfoundation.org/scholarship-application/. The deadline for scholarships is March 15th every year, so be sure to get the application done early!
Most seasonal employees are hired by the Southern ranches for the months of September through May and by the Northern ranches for the months of May through October. Many Northern ranches have last-minute openings during the months of May and June.
The compensation for each position is at each ranch’s discretion and will be discussed prior to hiring. Jobs on dude ranches typically involve hard work and long hours as well as participation in evening guest activities such as line dances, hayrides, and staff talent shows. Good people skills and an ability to live and work well with others are required. The more flexible you are in the type of position you would like, the more likely you are to be successful.
Recommendation for Dude Ranch Employment Opportunities
Non-U.S. Citizens:
Employment opportunities on ranches for non-U.S. citizens can be extremely limited. Individuals must contact the ranches individually to see if they are willing to hire non-U.S. citizens. Individuals must also have a work permit for the U.S.A. Please contact the U.S. Embassy for information on work permits. The Dude Ranchers’ Association is not able to help in obtaining work permits for those looking for dude ranch employment opportunities.
Student Internships:
U.S. students often contact the Association seeking internship positions. The Dude Ranchers’ Association has no formal internship program but a number of our member ranchers have been willing to negotiate with students for internship positions as a part of their seasonal employment. Students interested in such positions may utilize the opportunities listed below and are encouraged to research DRA member ranches and reach out to them directly about internship opportunities.
Options for DRA Assistance in Seeking Dude Ranch Employment
To assist the many students and others seeking employment, the Association is offering the following services:
- Upon request, we will send the Dude Ranchers’ Association Directory. All 90+ member ranches are listed, along with their contact information. Interested individuals may contact each ranch themselves.
- The Dude Rancher’s Association also publishes a bi-weekly newsletter that includes the most recent job listings. Please sign up for this when the pop-up comes on to the screen on the Careers page.