What are the responsibilities and job description for the Shepherd position at Halter Ranch Vineyard?
About Halter Ranch
Set along the western-most boundaries of Paso Robles, California, surrounded by the wild, and wide-open Santa Lucia Mountain Range of the Central Coast, Halter Ranch is a 2,700-acre nature estate dedicated to land, art, and legendary terroir-driven wine. Envisioned by Swiss entrepreneur, philanthropist, and world-leading land conservationist, Hansjörg Wyss, the estate is an homage to his mother, Alice, and a haven for the natural world to flourish and deliver exceptional, timeless wines.
About the Sheep Program
Today we graze approximately 85 sheep throughout our 200-acre estate vineyard, and 2,700-acre Ranch. We are committed to developing our integrated crop-livestock system. Our long-term plan is to expand the herd to a few hundred sheep for larger scale vineyard and land management across the property.
About the Position
We are seeking an individual with a passion for animals, rotational grazing, and organic farming practices. While we are relatively new, we are seeking an individual with previous sheep management experience that will take ownership and pride in the program. We are looking for a strong, mature individual, who is also professional, organized, and willing to work with the Halter Ranch team.
An overwhelming majority of the job is building and taking down electric fence, tending to the herd, observing ecological conditions, and making grazing decisions with the vineyard team. Some portion of the job will require interacting with our wine club members and guests. Importantly, the role requires a close attention to animal health, throughout the season, and, especially, during the breeding and birthing periods.
The work often requires carrying heavy loads and working on steep unstable slopes in all weather conditions. There is a lot of on-the-fly troubleshooting and problem-solving that is required. Being handy and a keen problem-solver will get you far. Sometimes during emergencies—namely sheep breakouts—your attention may be required during off-hours.
We expect our shepherds to work 40-hour weeks, 5 days a week, with two days off.
The option to live in a beautiful two-bedroom, one-bath home on the estate is available, and preferred. The home is private, and located in the lovely Adelaida community of Paso Robles, CA.
Responsibilities include:
o Building and maintaining electric fence
o Monitoring the land, soil, and native ecology
o Handling livestock, primarily sheep but occasionally cows, horses, donkeys, chickens, pigs, and goats
o Trailering water to and from grazing locations
o Lifting heavy farm equipment and animal supplements tubs
o Driving a truck and livestock trailer
o Building portable corrals for vaccinations, vet visits, etc.
o Basic equipment cleanliness, upkeep, and maintenance
o Other duties around the ranch in down times if needed
Desirable Experience and Qualifications
Degree in animal husbandry or animal science, preferred but not required.
o Herding with dogs, dog training
o Horseback experience
o Native flora and fauna knowledge
Want to Join the Halter Team?
To apply submit cover letter and resume to: Human Resources Manager, Michelle Robles. CompensationRange: $25/hour to start. Includes an excellent benefits package including Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO and more.
Halter Ranch is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories. We abide by strict COVID-19 guidelines and protocols. All employees must show proof of COVID-19 vaccination.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: From $25.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
COVID-19 considerations:
We abide by strict COVID-19 guidelines and protocols. All employees must show proof of COVID-19 vaccination.
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Paso Robles, CA 93446: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Required)
Experience:
- Animal husbandry: 4 years (Preferred)
Work Location: One location
Salary : $25 - $0