Open Range Sheep Herder

By May 1st each year, lambs have been weaned, the Ewes combined back into larger herds and Feeder herds from the weaned lambs have now been created for herd management and also to provide for the nutritional needs of the growing offspring. The ewes will be moved throughout the summer with the herder on targeted grazing contracts. These grazing contracts mostly target for fire mitigation. The sheep's main needs during this time are: access to plenty of dry feed, supplemental loose protein, water, and protection from parasites, predators and stress. Contract sites vary between 1 to 30 acres and moving between sites is facilitated by gooseneck truck and trailer moves. The herder is responsible for providing for the sheep's needs by setting up electric fencing to accommodate 1 to 3 day graze sections then using temporary steel panels to construct corrals to prepare for trailering animals. When setting up fencing the herder must take into account poisonous plants, ornamental plants, maps of which areas the property owner wants grazed, water location availability, terrain and obstacles for placing fencing. Contract grazing extends from May to August or September when we begin to slow down the animal movement and prepare for parturition (birthing) season. The worker must be able to demonstrate work experience and a knowledge of sheep. The Sheep Herder will be required to be On-Call 24/7 and live with the animals 100% of the time. Drench, trim hooves, assist in shearing of livestock. Will examine livestock for signs of illness and administer vaccines, medications and insecticides according to instruction. May sort and cut culls. Will feed sheep supplementary rations. Must be able to ride and safely operate a 4-wheeler. Must care for and control guardian dogs as well as herding dogs. Employee must be willing to perform tasks capably and efficiently without close supervision, and live and work singly or in small groups of workers in isolated areas for extended periods of time. Most duties are performed out-of-doors and entail exposure to extreme heat and cold; dust, rain, snow, wind; and herding hazards; poisonous snakes and predators common in range lands. General supervision will be provided by the ranch owner. Worker must be able to lift and carry items weighing up to 50 pounds. Most duties are performed out-of-doors and entail exposure to extreme heat and cold; dust, rain, snow, wind; and herding hazards; poisonous snakes and predators common on farm lands. General supervision and supplies will be provided by the ranch owner. The herder will be required to be on-call 24/7. Worker must live and work on the range more than 50% of the time.