Job Description

Hansen Agri-PLACEMENT is partnering with a progressive Texas cattle operation seeking an experienced Ranch Manager / General Manager to oversee a large-scale backgrounding and preconditioning operation. This role carries full operational responsibility for cattle health, employee leadership, and day-to-day ranch performance.

The operation specializes in high-risk, auction-sourced calves, requiring hands-on leadership with animal health protocols, daily cattle observation, and proactive problem-solving. This is not a traditional cow-calf management role; success in this position depends on proven experience backgrounding stressed, unweaned cattle and navigating the challenges that come with that environment.

The Manager will be accountable for overall cattle performance, ensuring calves transition successfully through receiving, treatment, feeding, and preparation for pasture or feedyard placement. This individual must be comfortable making timely decisions, setting expectations, and holding people accountable in a fast-moving operation where conditions can change daily.

In addition to cattle oversight, the Manager will supervise ranch staff, coordinate maintenance and contractors, and ensure equipment, facilities, and infrastructure are properly managed. While heavy hands-on construction or mechanical work is not the focus, the ability to evaluate workmanship, troubleshoot issues, and step in during emergencies is essential.

This position requires strong leadership, sound judgment, and the ability to manage both people and livestock under pressure. The ideal candidate is someone who takes ownership of outcomes and understands that animal health, operational efficiency, and team accountability are all interconnected.

Key Responsibilities

- Lead all aspects of cattle receiving, backgrounding, and health management
- Monitor animal health daily; oversee treatment protocols and pulling procedures
- Manage ranch staff and establish clear expectations and accountability
- Coordinate feeding programs and oversee feed preparation and delivery
- Supervise maintenance, contractors, and general ranch upkeep
- Oversee equipment usage and ensure proper care and readiness
- Respond to operational issues as they arise, including after-hours needs
- Maintain high standards for animal welfare, performance, and facility condition

Qualifications

- Proven experience with high-risk, backgrounding cattle operations
- Strong working knowledge of cattle health, treatment protocols, and stress management
- Leadership experience managing crews in a production livestock environment
- Ability to evaluate equipment, facilities, and contractor work
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced, responsibility-heavy role
- Practical, hands-on mindset with strong decision-making skills

Why This Area of Central Texas