Work With Us
Thank you for your interest in working with Ranchlands! Please carefully read the following FAQs before applying to any of the positions or emailing us with questions.
Available positions are listed here on the site. If you don’t see it here then that position isn’t currently available.
To apply for any of these positions, please send a full resume, references, and a cover letter explaining what you value and why you want to work for Ranchlands. For ranch intern and apprenticeships, please email ranch@ranchlands.com. For all other positions, please email jobs@ranchlands.com.
Once you have sent your application you do not need to follow up. We will be in touch with you if we will be offering you an interview. Applications can take around 6 weeks to be processed. Not all applications will be offered an interview.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if I live outside of the USA?
You can apply if you are eligible to work in the USA at the time of applying. This means you must have a valid work visa in place or be a dual citizen. Ranchlands is unable to sponsor or be part of any visa application process. This applies to all job positions and internships.
Is there a deadline for applying?
Ranch internships are rolling with different start dates throughout the year based on availability. Program internships, wrangling positions, culinary positions all begin and end within the guest season of March – October. We accept applications on an on-going basis until the position is filled. If the position is listed here, it is still available and we are accepting applications.
Can I come and work and help out in exchange for room and board for two weeks?
All internships have a minimum requirement stated in the individual job listings. Anything less is considered a vacation, which you are welcome to book.
Do I need a car?
All ranches are very remote. It is recommend that you have your own vehicle as the ranch is unable to provide you with one outside of work duties.
Can I bring my dog/cat/bird/horse/hamster?
No pets are allowed for any job or internship positions.
Is housing offered?
Yes, all positions and internships offer on site shared housing.
Is food included?
No positions offer food as part of the compensation.
How far in advance should I apply?
We recommend you apply 3 – 6 months in advance for any position.
Is there an age limit?
Minimum age for applying is 21 years old for most positions. Ranch interns must be at least 23 years old.
Can I apply for an apprenticeship?
All apprenticeships begin with a ranch internship. Please let us know that an apprenticeship is your longer term goal when applying.
How long is an apprenticeship?
Apprenticeships are varying in length dependent on the individual. They can be anywhere from 2-6 years.
Can I apply for two internships?
Yes, you can state you are interested in multiple internships in your application.
All Ranches
Agricultural Interns
Ranchlands is seeking six-month ranch interns to work on one of our very remote, large-scale working ranches. Preferred applicants will have some relevant experience or proven interest in a related field, at least intermediate riding skills, and must be prepared to live up to three hours from the nearest grocery store. The internship will provide a hands-on experience in all operations, from fencing and digging pipe lines to moving cattle and participating in grazing planning. This is a great gateway to a ranch apprenticeship for the right candidate. Shared accommodations, utilities, and a weekly food stipend are provided.
To apply for agricultural positions, please email ranch@ranchlands.com.
Zapata Ranch
Wrangler
Seasonal: June - October
As a Wrangler, you are a primary representative of Ranchlands and Zapata Ranch for guests, and you must be warm, gracious, education and guest experience-focused, able to think on your feet at all times, and present an authentic Western appearance. Your primary duties will be to guide guests on horseback rides throughout the ranch and Great Sand Dunes National Park; educate them about all aspects of the ranch, surrounding area, and Ranchlands’ mission; help with care of our 60+ head horse herd under guidance of the Programs Manager; and assist as needed with other aspects of Zapata’s hospitality programs. Safety is our number one concern, followed closely by ensuring that all of our guests have the best possible stay and educational experience at Zapata.
Zapata Ranch
Programs Assistant
Seasonal: June – October
As a Programs Assistant, you are a primary representative of Ranchlands and Zapata Ranch for guests, and you must be warm, gracious, education and guest experience-focused, able to think on your feet at all times, and present an authentic Western appearance. Your primary duties will be to serve breakfast & dinner to guests; lead Bison Tours and afternoon guest programs on the ranch; educate guests about all aspects of the ranch, surrounding area, our food program, and Ranchlands’ mission; and assist as needed with all other guest programming & services. Safety is our number one concern, followed closely by ensuring that all of our guests have the best possible stay and educational experience at Zapata.
Qualified applicants are encouraged to apply by submitting a resume and letter of interest to jobs@ranchlands.com. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
