Wrangler

The Ranch at Rock Creek; Philipsburg (MT); On-site; USD 28,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

The Ranch at Rock Creek is seeking a Wrangler to lead guest trail rides and provide exceptional equine care in a Forbes Five-Star setting. You will deliver authentic western horsemanship, ensure guest safety, and contribute to a high-performance team across the equine operation.

The role requires five years of horse experience, Western riding proficiency, and a commitment to hospitality. The position involves outdoor work, weekends/holidays, and the potential for additional duties as needed.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum 5 years of hands-on horse experience.
• Valid driver's license and clean driving record.
• Proven Western riding competency.
• Experience in hospitality or guest services preferred.
• Rodeo or show experience preferred.
• Riding lesson instructor experience preferred.
• Basic equine first aid knowledge.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Flexibility for weekends and holidays.

Responsibilities

• Lead guest trail rides and equestrian activities with safety and enjoyment.
• Provide hospitality and tailor experiences to guest skill levels.
• Support ranch events and barn activities with professionalism.
• Monitor herd health, feed, groom, and report concerns promptly.
• Perform daily barn chores and maintain equipment cleanliness.
• Collaborate with staff to ensure guest and horse safety.
• Maintain trails, arenas, and corrals for safety and appearance.
• Assist with basic veterinary and farrier tasks under supervision.
• Uphold Forbes Five-Star standards and a guest-first mindset.
• Carry out additional duties as assigned.

Skills

Horse experience

Western riding

Hospitality

Guest services

Rodeo/show experience

Riding instruction

Equine first aid

Teamwork

Attention to detail

Independence

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

Wrangler

Department: Equine

Reports to: Director of Equine and Agriculture Operations

Exempt/Non-Exempt: Non-Exempt (Hourly)

PRIMARY PURPOSE

The Wrangler is responsible for delivering exceptional performance in their role, embodying Ranch core values, and upholding the standards set for Forbes Five-Star properties. This position provides authentic western horsemanship, exceptional animal care, and a deep commitment to teamwork. By providing memorable, safe, and engaging equestrian experiences, the Wrangler contributes directly to the property’s reputation for excellence.

Candidates should be prepared to supply a western riding video when requested by the Director of Equine and Agriculture Operations.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead guest trail rides and equestrian activities; ensure safety, education, and enjoyment in alignment with Forbes service standards.
• Provide exceptional hospitality, anticipating guest needs and tailoring experiences to individual skill levels and interests.
• Contribute to Ranch events such as stagecoach rides, barn dances, breakfast rides, and rodeos, representing the barn with professionalism and enthusiasm.
• Monitor and maintain herd health including feeding, grooming, and early identification of injuries or illness. Promptly report concerns to the Barn Supervisor or Director of Equine and Agriculture.
• Perform daily barn chores to ensure the cleanliness, safety, and organization of all equine facilities, tack, and equipment.
• Collaborate with fellow wranglers and other departments to uphold teamwork, communication, and a guest/horse-first mindset.
• Maintain the appearance and safety of riding trails, arenas, and corrals.
• Assist with basic veterinary and farrier care under supervision.
• Demonstrate a commitment to the Ranch’s mission, values, and sustainable stewardship of animals and land.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by Barn Supervisor.

QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record.
• Minimum 5 years of hands-on horse experience including riding, training, or competitive settings.
• Proven competency in Western riding discipline; versatility in both arena and trail settings preferred.
• Experience in hospitality or guest services preferred.
• Rodeo or show experience preferred.
• Riding lesson instructor experience preferred.
• Working knowledge of basic equine first aid.
• Ability to demonstrate advanced skill, confidence, and sensitivity in handling and riding horses of varied temperament and training levels.
• Embodiment of Forbes Five-Star standards including warm, gracious, and attentive guest interactions.
• Works cohesively with peers, proactively offering help and contributing to a positive barn culture.
• Possesses extreme attention to detail and maintains impeccable care standards for horses, equipment, and guest experiences.
• Takes ownership of assigned tasks and follows through with consistency, integrity, and accountability.
• Identifies opportunities for improvement and acts on them without prompting.
• Performs reliably under pressure while maintaining composure and focus.
• Adapts to changing priorities, guest needs, and ranch conditions with professionalism and positivity.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, high-expectation environment.
• All candidates must provide a Western riding video for consideration.
• Ability to stand, walk, and ride over prolonged periods for the duration of each shift.
• Ability to frequently lift or carry up to 50 lbs., bending, and be exposed to outdoor elements.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and holidays, as required by business needs.
• Ability to work outdoors in varied weather conditions.

This job description is intended to convey information essential to understanding the scope of the position; it is not intended to be an exhaustive list of skills, efforts, duties, responsibilities, or working conditions associated with the position. Management may assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.