Head Wrangler - Summer Season 2025

Lone Mountain Ranch (LMR), situated on 148 acres in beautiful Big Sky, Montana, was first homesteaded in 1915 and has long been recognized as one of the premier guest ranch resorts in the country. The property consists of 30 rooms located within 24 unique cabins as well as the Horn & Cantle Restaurant and Saloon, the Ranch Hall, the Outpost, equestrian facilities, event venues and meeting spaces. A National Geographic Unique Lodge of the World, LMR is listed on the National Registry of the Historic Places, a member of the Dude Rancher’s Association, and once voted the #1 Nordic Ski Resort in North America by Cross Country Skier Magazine, LMR offers authentic luxury accommodations, genuine Montana cuisine, exceptional service, and a stunning array of outdoor recreational pursuits. Combine these attributes with proximity to Yellowstone National Park, Big Sky Resort, as well as Bozeman Airport, and we believe the LMR guest experience is unlike any other in the American West.

LMR VISION

Lone Mountain Ranch is a destination where guests disconnect from the world, while connecting with others through unforgettable adventures in a natural setting. Moments are crafted through discovery, exceptional people, fun activities, and a breathtaking environment.

SUMMARY 

The Head Wrangler at Lone Mountain Ranch holds a critical leadership role in providing exceptional guest experiences within the beautiful Montana landscape. This position requires not only expertise in horsemanship and trail riding but also the responsibility of overseeing the Wrangler team and ensuring the safety, training, and well-being of both horses and guests. In addition to leading trail rides, the Head Wrangler will manage the daily operations of the equestrian program, including horse care, barn maintenance, and the upkeep of all equestrian facilities. A strong emphasis on hospitality, safety, professionalism, and leadership is vital to this role, as the Head Wrangler is integral to maintaining Lone Mountain Ranch’s reputation for excellence. 

The ideal candidate will possess a deep passion for horsemanship and outdoor adventure, along with a proven track record of leadership and exceptional communication skills. A commitment to safety and the well-being of both guests and horses, as well as the ability to motivate and manage a team, are essential qualities. Previous experience managing a team, leading trail rides, and performing advanced equine care will be highly valued. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Lead and supervise Wranglers on daily trail rides, ensuring safety, enjoyment, and personalization of experiences for guests of all skill levels.
• Conduct pre-ride safety briefings and monitor trail conditions, adjusting routes as necessary to ensure a safe and memorable experience.
• Manage the daily operation of the barn and equestrian facilities, including overseeing horse care, grooming, saddling, feeding, and general health checks.
• Ensure the integrity of fences, gates, and other equestrian infrastructure by coordinating and overseeing necessary repairs and maintenance.
• Lead the training and development of the Wrangler team, ensuring all staff are equipped with the skills and knowledge required for horse handling, guest interaction, and safety protocols.
• Develop and deliver training programs for Wranglers to ensure consistency in guest experiences and animal care.
• Foster a collaborative and positive work environment for the team, while ensuring high standards of safety and guest service are met.
• Act as the primary point of contact for guest inquiries related to the equestrian program, offering detailed knowledge of local wildlife, the ranch, and the surrounding wilderness.
• Oversee and ensure the maintenance of tack and riding equipment, ensuring readiness and safety for each ride.
• Respond quickly and effectively to emergencies involving guests, horses, or staff, including administering first aid or coordinating medical and veterinary support.
• Serve as a leader in guest safety, ensuring adherence to safety protocols during all activities, including trail rides, horse handling, and barn work.
• Actively participate in horse training, working closely with the team to ensure horses are well-prepared for guest rides.
• Stay informed about weather conditions, adjusting rides or activities to ensure the safety and comfort of both guests and horses.

QUALIFICATIONS 

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in horseback riding, trail rides, and advanced horse care.
• Proven leadership experience, with the ability to supervise, train, and motivate a team of Wranglers.
• In-depth knowledge of equine behavior, with the ability to handle and train horses in various settings.
• Experience guiding guests in outdoor or hospitality settings, with a focus on exceptional service and guest experience.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact professionally and effectively with guests and staff alike.
• Ability to perform and oversee minor repairs to fences, barns, and equestrian equipment.
• Certification in first aid and CPR, with the ability to manage emergencies and provide immediate assistance.
• Ability to safely operate a tractor and drive a truck, including hauling livestock with a trailer.
• Experience training young, green-broke horses and managing a herd of up to 120 horses.
• In-depth comprehension of veterinary care and herd health.
• Expertise in western tack and equipment, including saddle fitting, and an understanding of western riding techniques.
• Extensive knowledge of overall horse care, including lameness prevention, training methods, and nutrition.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to make sound decisions under pressure.
• Ability to work independently and within a team, demonstrating flexibility and adaptability in an outdoor environment.
• Comfort working in varying weather conditions and performing physically demanding tasks.

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS 

• Outdoor work in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and snow.
• Ability to lift and carry heavy items (up to 50 lbs), and remain on horseback for extended periods.
• Endurance to perform physically demanding tasks, such as mucking out barns, repairing fences, and leading trail rides.
• Strong fine motor skills for handling reins, saddles, and performing repairs on equipment.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to manage a team and collaborate with other departments.
• A strong commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of both guests and horses at all times.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time or without notice.  

Seasonal employees are hired to work for a pre-determined period of less than 12 months. At the end of the temporary period, employment is terminated. If a seasonal employee wishes to be considered for future employment, they may reapply but will be considered a new employee for all purposes.

HOURLY EMPLOYEE & SEASONAL EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

In addition to a great hourly wage, we think Lone Mountain Ranch offers more opportunities than most!

• Seasonal Bonus Program:
  • All hourly employees will be able to participate in our seasonal bonus program.  Each hourly employee will receive $1 per hour worked per season and $1.50 per overtime hour worked. Employees who are terminated or resign from their position before the end of each season, will not be able to participate in this program. If the season is cut short due to business levels, the employee will still participate in this program.  Positions that are contracted at a shorter term, like the Outdoor Youth Adventures program, this employee will be able to participate in this program.  All hours worked outside of these seasonal ranges will not apply to this bonus program. 
• Staff Cafeteria:
  • We also want to keep you hydrated and nourished. You will have access to our staff cafeteria which provides 3 meals a day, as well as a large selection of grab and go items to suit anyone’s day.
• Ranch Gratuity:
  • In addition to your hourly rate, you will receive a ranch gratuity unique to us.
• Ranch Wide Activities:
  • We also understand that every full work week requires a little me time. And what better way to unwind than to take advantage of the many summer activities the ranch has to offer? If there are openings, you have free access to the following in the summer season: horseback riding, Outdoor Youth Adventures Program, Yellowstone National Park Tours, yoga, and mountain biking.  During the winter months, you will have access to 50 Miles of world renown cross country ski trails right outside your back door.
• Discounted stay in the cabin at Lone Mountain Ranch: 
  • If you book a cabin in advance, you will receive 25% off the current best available rate. Alternatively, if you wait until 14 days before your stay, you can book at a special employee rate of $100 per room, per night, meaning a one-bedroom cabin costs $100 per night and a two-bedroom cabin costs $200 per night. Please note, this rate does not include taxes, fees, and gratuities. This discounted rate is exclusively for employees and applies to the Bed & Breakfast package. All requests will be reviewed by Auric Road. Requests will be reviewed Monday - Friday. Once approved, the employee will be contacted, and the booking will be processed with the Lead Sales & Reservation Agent. Requests are based on availability. Blackout dates do apply. 
• Arrival
  • While we know that we are in one of the most beautiful and sought-after destinations in America, we also know we are a little off the beaten path. The ranch will provide complimentary transportation to and from the airport, should you come to us by air. 
• Uniforms:
  • Receive free uniforms from the ranch and you’re ready to become a valuable member of the Lone Mountain Ranch team!
• Opportunity to move to Full-Time, Regular Status and receive additional benefits.
  • If you remain with us for 1 full year and worked a minimum of 1560 hours during our 12-month lookback period (that takes place at the end of each year), you are eligible to move to full-time status. Full-time status means Vacation and Sick pay, medical, dental, life and vision insurance. This will be effective the first of the month following 30 days of your full-time employment hire date or status. The Ranch will pay for 80% of the premiums for employees and any dependents. Employees will be responsible for paying the remaining 20% of the premiums. Payment is deducted automatically from the employee’s semi- monthly paycheck at a pre-taxed rate.