Business/Organization:

Lands & Resources

 

Position:

Bison Ranch Manager

  

Employment Type:

Full Time, Permanent

  

Salary:

DOQ

Brokenhead Ojibway Nation (BON) is seeking a dedicated and experienced Bison Ranch Manager to oversee the day-to-day operations and long-term development of the Brokenhead Bison Ranch. This role is vital to advancing our community’s vision for food sovereignty, ecological grassland/prairie restoration, and strengthening cultural traditions. The successful candidate will manage all aspects of bison care, habitat maintenance, infrastructure development, and community engagement.

Duties & Responsibilities:

Herd Management & Animal Care

  • Monitor bison health and behavior daily
  • Coordinate feeding, watering, and winter forage planning
  • Implement and oversee herd health protocols (vaccinations, parasite control, identification)
  • Assist with calving, weaning, and seasonal herd movements

Land & Habitat Management

  • Manage rotational grazing plans and pasture improvements
  • Maintain and enhance native grasslands and habitat biodiversity
  • Control invasive species and coordinate environmental restoration efforts

Infrastructure & Equipment

  • Maintain fencing, gates, corrals, barns, and water systems
  • Operate and maintain ranch equipment (tractors, balers, ATVs, etc.)
  • Assist with barn construction and other capital projects

Planning, Administration & Leadership

  • Supervise ranch hands, track hours, log books
  • Maintain accurate herd records, inventories, and health logs
  • Support budgeting, purchasing, grant reporting, and compliance
  • Coordinate with Lands Department and contribute to strategic ranch planning

Community & Cultural Integration

  • Engage with Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and youth to share teachings about bison
  • Support education initiatives and cultural events linked to the ranch
  • Promote respect for land, animals, and Anishinaabe values in all ranch operations

Qualifications:

Required:

  • Proven experience in ranching, bison or cattle management, or a related agricultural field
  • Strong knowledge of animal husbandry, fencing, equipment use, and land stewardship
  • Valid Class 5 driver’s license (Class 1 or 3 is an asset)
  • Ability to work outdoors in all seasons and perform physically demanding tasks
  • Criminal Record Check and Child Abuse Check
  • Willing to submit a pre-employment drug test

Preferred:

  • Certification or training in animal care, land management, or agricultural sciences
  • Experience working with Indigenous communities and integrating traditional knowledge
  • Supervisory experience and strong organizational skills
  • Familiarity with grant reporting, budgeting, and administrative tasks

Compensation:

  • Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications
  • Benefits package including health coverage, vacation, and professional development opportunities

Application Deadline:  June 20, 2025 by 2:30 pm

Please submit resume, cover letter and three (3) references, including recent or current employer to:
Human Resource Department
Brokenhead Ojibway Nation
Box 180
Scanterbury, Manitoba R0E 1W0
Fax: (204) 766-2021
hr@brokenheadojibwaynation.com

We thank all who apply and advise only those selected for further consideration will be contacted.

The Brokenhead Ojibway Nation is committed to equity in employment.