Top Dog SF is seeking a confident, experienced, and dog-savvy Ranch Manager to lead daily operations at our private dog ranch in Montara, CA.
This role is ideal for a hands-on dog professional who thrives outdoors, enjoys leading a team, and takes pride in creating a safe, enriching, and well-run environment for dogs and people alike.
The Doggie Ranch Manager is the the day-to-day leader of the ranch—overseeing dog safety, supporting staff, managing logistics, and serving as the primary onsite point of contact. This is a leadership role with real responsibility, autonomy, and impact.
Why Work With Us
Compensation & Schedule
Starting at $22+/hour, based on experience
Monday–Friday schedule
Consistent daytime hours, including:
Approximately 4 - 5 hours per day onsite at the Dog Ranch
Additional remote administrative hours as needed
Back up Driver if needed
Approximately 32+ hours per week
Perks & Benefits
Paid sick time (up to 72 hours/year)
Monthly health and mobile data reimbursements
Pay raises and incentives after 90 days
Referral bonuses
Employer-sponsored IRA (CalSavers)
Paid training and ongoing professional development
Work outdoors at our private, secure dog ranch — not a chain or warehouse-style facility
The Role: Ranch Manager
As Ranch Manager, you will oversee the daily flow of dogs, people, and operations while remaining actively involved in dog handling and ranch life.
Core Responsibilities
Dog Care & Safety
Supervise group play and provide enrichment activities
Oversee daily dog activities and routines
Monitor dog behavior, health, and group dynamics to ensure safety
Conduct incident tracking as needed, including daily and weekly company-wide communication
Support new dog trials and group dynamic assessments
Ensure dogs’ physical and emotional needs are met in all weather conditions
Team Leadership & Support
Serve as the primary onsite leader and point of contact for Top Dog SF team members
Lead brief daily huddles and support team communication
Lead daily dog roll calls and schedule confirmations
Support onboarding, training, and coaching of new hires
Provide feedback and collaborate with leadership on performance and growth
Foster a positive, respectful, and team-oriented culture
Ranch Operations & Logistics
Support daily transportation flow and ranch logistics
Step in to cover employee breaks or call-outs when needed
Assist with scheduling, dog placement, and transportation logistics as needed
Conduct daily ranch, van, and equipment safety checks
Maintain cleanliness, organization, and safety standards at the Ranch
Coordinate minor repairs, supplies, and vendor services for the dog ranch and company vans as needed
Client Communication & Reporting
Communicate dog updates, incidents, and observations to leadership
Support client questions or concerns as they arise
Maintain accurate records, photos, and notes related to dogs’ days
What We’re Looking For
You may be a great fit if you:
Have hands-on experience working with groups of dogs
Are calm, observant, and confident handling complex dog dynamics
Enjoy leading by example and supporting a team
Are reliable, organized, and solution-oriented
Communicate clearly and professionally
Align with positive-reinforcement, force-free dog handling
Can work outdoors year-round and meet the physical demands of the role
Preferred Qualifications
High school diploma or equivalent
Certified positive-reinforcement trainer or education in positive-reinforcement training
1+ year experience in dog care, training, daycare, or a similar setting
Leadership or supervisory experience (formal or informal)
Reliable transportation
Clean driving record
Physical & Work Requirements
Standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and lifting (up to 50–75 lbs)
Ability to move quickly, be agile, and manage active dogs
Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions
Exposure to animal dander, dirt, and typical ranch environments
About Top Dog SF
Founded in 2004, Top Dog SF is an award-winning dog walking and positive-reinforcement training company serving San Francisco and the Bay Area.
Our private Montara ranch offers dogs a safe, enriching space for structured play, exploration, and learning. We are a small, values-driven business, not a chain. Every team member matters, and leadership is built through care, consistency, and professionalism.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Top Dog SF is an equal opportunity employer committed to inclusivity and a people-first culture. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and identities.
Ready to Join the Pack?
Application Instructions
Apply today and help us create exceptional experiences for dogs, clients, and our team. Please complete the following two steps:
Apply through Jazz HR with your uploaded resume: https://topdogsf.applytojob.com/apply/QK54wd3iYL/Doggie-Ranch-Manager
Complete the Aptive Index Assessment: https://assessment.aptiveindex.com/s/b7rVWJW8s5QS
We look forward to learning more about you! Thank you!
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QK54wd3iYL
Seniority level
Mid-Senior level
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
Management and Manufacturing
Industries
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