Ranch Hand & Tractor Tour Assistant

Whispering Oaks Miniature Ranch | Clermont, Florida (50 acres)

Schedule: Weekends required + 3 rotating weekdays per week |

At Whispering Oaks Miniature Ranch, we breed and raise miniature cows and miniature donkeys with a strong focus on animal welfare, calm handling, and excellent temperaments. We also host guided tours and hands-on petting experiences.

We’re actively transitioning into regenerative grazing and permaculture—building healthier pastures, planting trees and food forests, and improving our land systems over time. This role will support that work through hands-on ranch projects and seasonal planting.

Position Summary

We’re seeking a dependable Ranch Hand & Equipment Operator to support daily ranch operations, property upkeep, and safe operation of farm equipment. This is a hands-on outdoor role—ideal for someone who enjoys physical work, takes pride in doing things right, and works well as part of a team.

Key ResponsibilitiesEquipment Operation

• Operate and maintain ranch equipment such as tractor, skid steer, mower/brush hog, bale spear, front-end loader, spreader (and other implements as assigned).
• Load/unload hay (round bales and/or large square bales), supplies, and materials safely.
• Perform basic preventative maintenance: greasing, fluid checks, filters, tire pressure, cleaning.
• Report mechanical issues early and keep equipment organized and secure.
• Safely operate the tractor with wagons for guided tours (smooth driving, safe speeds, clear stops/starts, guest safety first).

Livestock & Daily Ranch Support

• Feed livestock daily by unloading, moving, and placing large hay bales using ranch equipment; maintain consistent feeding routines as assigned.
• Check water systems/troughs; report issues promptly and fix as assigned.
• Assist with moving/rotating animals and basic handling (as directed).
• Observe animal health/behavior and communicate concerns to the Ranch Manager.

Property & Facility Maintenance

• Routine upkeep: mowing, trimming, pressure washing, painting, cleanup/hauling.
• Fence repairs (electric/net wire/field fence) and gate hardware as needed.
• Maintain barns, pens, lanes, and work areas: safe, clean, organized.
• Assist with irrigation/waterline tasks, drainage, and basic repairs (as applicable).

Projects & Improvements

• Support ongoing ranch projects: pasture setup, planting, materials staging, light construction support.
• Follow plans/checklists and help keep the property tour/guest-ready as needed.

Regenerative Grazing & Permaculture Projects (Seasonal)

• Assist with pasture-building projects: setting up new paddocks, moving/organizing materials, and supporting rotational grazing systems as directed.
• Support planting and land stewardship: planting trees/shrubs, establishing food forest areas, mulching, watering, and basic maintenance of young plantings.
• Help maintain a clean, organized property that supports soil health and guest readiness (weeding in key areas, light cleanup, staging materials for projects).

Safety & Teamwork

• Follow safety protocols for equipment, livestock, and visitors (public-facing environment).
• Work efficiently with the ranch team and communicate status, needs, and priorities.
• Maintain professional conduct and respect for animals, coworkers, and guests.

Qualifications

• Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation (clean driving record preferred).
• Comfortable working outdoors in heat, rain, dust, and uneven terrain.
• Ability to lift 50+ lbs and perform physical work for extended periods.
• Reliable, punctual, self-motivated, and safety-minded.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and willingness to learn.

Preferred (Not Required)

• 1+ years operating tractors/skid steers or similar equipment.
• Experience with livestock (cattle, horses, goats, donkeys, etc.).
• Welding/fabrication, carpentry, or general maintenance experience.
• Experience with irrigation systems, water lines, or electrical fencing.
• Interest or experience in regenerative grazing, rotational grazing, permaculture, or food forests.
• Planting experience (trees/shrubs), mulching/composting, and basic irrigation/watering systems are a plus.

Pay & Benefits

• Competitive hourly pay ($18–$23/hr) based on experience
• Paid time off: 2 weeks paid vacation per year (earned over time)
• Health benefit: health insurance reimbursement available up to $300–$500/month (with proof of coverage; details provided upon hire)

How to Apply

Email:

• A short intro (why you’re a good fit + your availability)
• Any relevant experience (equipment, ranch work, planting, livestock, etc.)
• Your phone number + 2 references

Send to: hello@whisperingoaksminiatureranch.comSubject: Ranch Hand & Tractor Tour Assistant — Your Name

Pay: $18.00 - $23.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Work Location: In person