How much does a ranch worker make?

In the United States, pay can differ with experience and skills, the employer or industry, location, and how specialized or demanding the animal-care tasks are; a job-related license may help. More hours or different shifts can also change total earnings.

Attend to live farm, ranch, open range or aquacultural animals that may include cattle, sheep, swine, goats, horses and other equines, poultry, rabbits, finfish, shellfish, and bees. Attend to animals produced for animal products, such as meat, fur, skins, feathers, eggs, milk, and honey. Duties may include feeding, watering, herding, grazing, milking, castrating, branding, de-beaking, weighing, catching, and loading animals. May maintain records on animals; examine animals to detect diseases and injuries; assist in birth deliveries; and administer medications, vaccinations, or insecticides as appropriate. May clean and maintain animal housing areas. Includes workers who shear wool from sheep and collect eggs in hatcheries.

What's a typical day like?

A ranch worker may feed and water cattle, move the herd, and check animals for illness or injuries. They keep care records, give medicine or vaccines when needed, and clean pens and shelters.

In the U.S., most people can apply without a formal education credential and learn the tools and safety rules on the job. Some equipment operators need a driver’s license, and workers who handle pesticides may need an applicator license.

High school plus some training (preparation level 2 of 5)

Good for people who like building and doing and keeping things organized.

Some U.S. animal farmworkers help livestock give birth—a surprising part of caring for cattle and other farm animals.