Fall 2026 | Ranch Student Worker
The Freeman Center is a 3,500-acre working ranch located eight miles from the Texas State University campus. The Center supports teaching, research, outreach activities, and daily ranch operations.
We are seeking to fill one student worker position for Fall 2026. Preference will be given to students who have two to three years remaining before graduation, allowing for longer-term employment and skill development.
Job Responsibilities
This position offers up to 20 hours per week, scheduled around the student's class schedule. Most hours will be spent assisting ranch staff with day-to-day operations. As students demonstrate competency in specific areas, they may be entrusted to work independently when appropriate. On-the-job training will be provided in areas where experience is lacking.
Duties vary throughout the year based on operational needs, seasonal conditions, and project goals. Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Livestock (Cattle and Goats)
- Handling livestock
- Feeding livestock
- Assisting with veterinary care
Facility Maintenance
- Plumbing
- Carpentry
- Welding
- Cleaning
- Mowing
- Fence repairs
- Road repairs
Deer Lease Assistance
- Checking in hunters (Friday–Sunday)
- Aging and scoring deer
- Advising lease holders
- Game tracking
Vehicle Maintenance (Lawn Mowers to Bulldozers)
- Performing scheduled maintenance
- Completing most minor repairs and some major repairs
Heavy Equipment Operation
- Tractors and attachments
- Skid steers and attachments
- Dozers
- Hydro-Ax equipment
Construction Projects
- Assisting with various projects related to teaching and research initiatives
Teaching, Research, and Outreach Support
- Assisting with university activities and events
Safety Oversight
- Supporting safe work practices and demonstrations
Job Skills
Required Skills
- Active listening
- Critical thinking
- Complex problem-solving
- Troubleshooting
- Ability to perform labor-intensive work
- Ability to work in extreme weather conditions
- Valid driver's license
- Insurable driving record
Preferred Skills
- Equipment maintenance experience
- Livestock handling experience
- Heavy equipment experience
- Truck and trailer experience
- PVC and PE livestock plumbing experience
- Field welding and fabrication experience
Pay and Compensation
The position starts at $11.00 per hour for up to 20 hours per week. Employees are eligible for annual raises, and the position offers flexible scheduling.
Contact Information
Cover letters and resumes should be sent to jam436@txstate.edu. The subject line of the email should read "Fall 2026 Student Applicant." Applications must be submitted no later than September 13, 2026.
Top candidates will be notified by September 21, 2026. A tour of the facility and an interview with the Ranch Manager will then be scheduled before a final selection is made.