POSITION IDENTIFICATION
TITLE Assistant Manager, Journagan Ranch
CLASSIFICATION NUMBER 9412
GRADE 44
CLASSIFICATION Exempt
IMMEDIATE SUPERVISOR Manager, Journagan Ranch
GENERAL FUNCTION
The Assistant Manager, Journagan Ranch supports the Manager, Journagan Ranch in the daily operation and management of the 3300-acre, 1000 head beef cattle operation that provides education, research, and public affairs functions in association with the Darr College of Agriculture. This position assists in ensuring the success of the Journagan Ranch as a production unit while contributing to the interdisciplinary teaching, research, and outreach goals established by the College of Agriculture’s Leadership Team and advisors. Under the direction of the Manager, the Assistant Manager plays a key role in livestock management, facility and land maintenance, equipment operation, staff supervision, and student engagement. This position serves as an operational leader and may act on behalf of the Manager when delegated.
MINIMUM ACCEPTABLE QUALIFICATIONS
Education: A high school diploma or the equivalent is required; a Bachelor’s degree in agriculture or related field is preferred.
Experience: At least four years of ranch operations or livestock management is required. Preferred experience includes hands-on cattle handling, forage or pasture management, equipment operation, personnel supervision, seedstock management, and livestock marketing and sales. Demonstrated ability to work with the public and knowledge of customer service is required. An equivalent combination of years of experience and education may be considered for substitution of experience requirements.
Skills: Strong organizational, communication, and teamwork skills are required. The ability to develop knowledge of, respect for, and skills to engage with those of other cultures or backgrounds is required. Basic computer skills and willingness to learn heard management and record-keeping software are required.
Effort: Occasionally required to lift or move equipment weighing up to 75 pounds.
Other: Work hours will include weekends and holidays. Must respond to after-hour emergency calls when necessary. Must have or be able to obtain Beef Quality Assurance certification, Private Pesticide Applicator’s License, Artificial Insemination certification, and a Class A Commercial Driver’s License, as required by duties. This position is based on conditional funding and lasts only as long as the funding allows.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Assists the Manager, Journagan Ranch in the daily operation of the ranch to ensure efficient, safe, and productive livestock and land management.2. Supports cattle herd management activities, including feeding, health care, breeding, calving, weaning, handling, and preparation for sale.
3. Assists with the maintenance, repair, and operation of ranch facilities, equipment, fencing, water systems, and infrastructure.
4. Assists in coordinating livestock handling, data collection, and recordkeeping in support of production, teaching, and research activities.
5. Supports pasture, forage, and land management activities, including grazing management, hay production, and conservation practices.
6. Provides daily supervision and guidance to ranch staff, student employees, and interns as assigned, promoting safe work practices and effective training.
7. Ensures humane, animal care practices and assists with compliance with university
policies, federal regulations, and industry standards.
8. Represents the Ranch and University in a professional manner when interacting with
visitors, industry partners, and the surrounding community.
10. Maintains technical competence through training, certifications, and professional development as directed by the Manager.
11. Performs other duties as assigned in support of the Manager and the College of Agriculture.
SUPERVISION
The Assistant Manager, Journagan Ranch, may provide functional or task supervision to full-time staff, part-time staff, and student employees as delegated.
JANUARY 2026
OFFICE OF HUMAN RESOURCES
