Ranch & Estate Manager – Live-In

We are seeking an experienced, hands-on Ranch & Estate Manager to oversee the daily operations, maintenance, and ongoing development of a beautiful 100+-acre private estate in Santa Barbara, California.

This is an exceptional opportunity for a knowledgeable, self-sufficient individual who enjoys working independently, takes pride in maintaining a substantial rural property, and has the practical skills required to manage both ranch operations and a private residence.

The estate is preparing to introduce horses and cattle in the coming months, making previous experience with livestock, pasture management, and equestrian facilities particularly desirable.

The successful candidate will be responsible for the overall upkeep of the ranch, overseeing vendors and contractors, monitoring the main residence, and ensuring the property is maintained and ready for the principals' visits.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the day-to-day management, maintenance, and upkeep of the 100+-acre estate.
• Manage the grounds, pastures, fencing, gates, roads, irrigation systems, and ranch infrastructure.
• Conduct regular inspections of the main residence, identifying maintenance issues and ensuring the property remains secure and well maintained.
• Prepare the estate for the principals' arrivals, coordinating with their Los Angeles-based household team to ensure everything is ready.
• Oversee external vendors, contractors, and specialist service providers.
• Carry out hands-on repairs, preventative maintenance, and general property improvements.
• Operate and maintain ranch equipment, machinery, and tools.
• Assist with preparations for the introduction of horses and cattle, including appropriate facilities, fencing, and pasture management.
• Support the ongoing care and management of livestock as required.
• Maintain high standards of safety, organization, and presentation throughout the estate.
• Act as the primary on-site point of contact for all ranch and property-related matters.

Candidate Requirements

• Proven experience managing a private ranch, rural estate, or substantial acreage.
• Strong practical knowledge of ranch operations, land management, and property maintenance.
• Previous experience with horses, cattle, or livestock management is highly desirable.
• Confident operating tractors, ranch machinery, and general maintenance equipment.
• Good understanding of irrigation systems, fencing, water management, and rural property infrastructure.
• Comfortable overseeing a private residence and coordinating property readiness for principal arrivals.
• Excellent vendor management and organizational skills.
• Highly self-motivated, proactive, and capable of working independently with minimal supervision.
• Practical, resourceful, discreet, and trustworthy, with a hands-on approach.
• Valid driver's license and legal authorization to work in the United States.

The Opportunity

This is a long-term position offering considerable autonomy and the opportunity to take ownership of a beautiful 100+-acre private estate in California's Santa Ynez Valley.

The Ranch & Estate Manager will work largely independently, supported by external vendors and the family's established Los Angeles household team.

A separate Ranch Manager's residence and dedicated on-site office are provided.

We are looking for someone who genuinely enjoys rural estate life, takes pride in their work, and is committed to the long-term care and development of the property.