Rancher

Your Fit

Income

$36K

Preparation

Some

Growth

-5.3%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Rancher?

A Rancher is responsible for the management and operation of a ranch, where they raise livestock such as cattle, sheep, goats, or horses. This occupation involves overseeing animal care, land management, and various business aspects of running a ranch.

Sample job titles:

Cowboy, Herdsman, Livestock Handler, Ranch Hand

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Rancher.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Rancher earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) in 2024 was...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$27K per year	$31K per year	$36K per year	$44K per year	$52K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $13K below the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Rancher do?

Work environment

Ranchers typically work outdoors in various weather conditions, managing vast tracts of ranch land. The environment can be physically demanding and requires handling of large animals and use of machinery. Ranchers may also spend time in an office setting, managing the business aspects of the ranch.

Quick task list

Cares for and breeds livestock, including feeding, watering, herding, and monitoring health.
Manages land and natural resources, including fencing, water supply, and grazing.
Makes business decisions, such as purchasing supplies, marketing livestock, and managing finances.
Hires and supervises ranch staff or seasonal workers.
Maintains ranch equipment and facilities.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Cattle Ranching: Specializing in raising and breeding cattle for meat or dairy production.
Equine Management: Focusing on breeding, training, and selling horses.
Organic Ranching: Implementing sustainable and organic farming practices.
Agrotourism: Combining traditional ranch operations with tourism services.
Wildlife Management: Integrating wildlife conservation into ranching practices.

Description

Ranching is a lifestyle as much as it is a profession, deeply rooted in agricultural traditions and often passed down through generations. Modern ranchers not only work with animals but also need to be versed in land management, environmental conservation, and business practices. The role requires a diverse skill set, including physical strength, animal husbandry, business acumen, and often, machinery operation.

Ranching has evolved with technological advancements; today's ranchers may use software for herd management, drones for land surveying, and modern marketing techniques. However, the core of ranching remains in its connection to the land and animals. Ranchers must be adaptable, able to cope with the uncertainties of weather, market fluctuations, and the challenges of rural living.

The profession is ideal for those who value independence and have a strong work ethic. It offers a unique opportunity to combine a love for animals, a passion for the outdoors, and a desire to preserve agricultural traditions. While demanding, ranching can be immensely fulfilling, offering a sense of stewardship over the land and a tangible connection to the cycle of life.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Deep connection to the land and the animals being raised.
Independence and the ability to make key decisions in managing a ranch.
The fulfillment that comes from maintaining agricultural traditions.
Opportunities to work outdoors in natural settings.

You might make a good Rancher if you are...

Passionate about animal husbandry and land management.
Physically fit and comfortable working in various outdoor conditions.
Independent, self-motivated, and capable of making important decisions.
Interested in combining practical, hands-on work with business management.
Prepared for the challenges and unpredictabilities of rural and agricultural life.

Pros:

Strong sense of independence and autonomy.
Close connection to nature and the outdoors.
Satisfaction from seeing tangible results of your work.
Opportunities for innovative and sustainable land and animal management.

Cons:

Physically and mentally demanding with long hours.
Financial risks due to market and environmental variables.
Potential isolation and challenges of rural living.
Constant need to adapt to new agricultural technologies and methods.

How to become a Rancher

Typical education

There is no formal educational requirement to become a rancher, as skills are often learned through hands-on experience. However, a degree in agriculture, animal science, or a related field can be beneficial for modern ranching operations.

High school preparation

Courses:

Agriculture and Animal Science for foundational knowledge.
Business Studies to understand the basics of managing a ranch.
Environmental Science to learn about land and resource management.
Physical Education to maintain and build physical fitness.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Participating in Future Farmers of America (FFA) or 4-H clubs.
Volunteering or working on local farms or ranches.
Joining outdoor or environmental clubs.
Engaging in sports or physical activities to build stamina and resilience.

Preparation after high school

Gaining hands-on experience through work on a ranch or farm.
Pursuing a degree or courses in agriculture, animal science, agribusiness, or environmental management.
Attending workshops or seminars on modern ranching techniques and sustainable practices.
Building a network through agricultural associations or local community groups.

More resources

National Cattlemen's Beef Association - Provides resources and information for cattle ranchers.
American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) - Offers resources for those interested in equine management.
United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) - Provides information on agricultural practices and regulations.
Ranch Management University - Offers courses and training for aspiring ranch managers.

Similar careers

Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.