Become a Horse Wrangler for the Bureau of Land Management
Are you looking for a career that combines your skills as an expert horseman with a dedication to preserving America’s natural heritage? The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is currently accepting applications for Horse Wranglers to join the Wild Horse and Burro (WH&B) Program. This is a rare opportunity to work at the intersection of animal welfare, facility management, and federal land stewardship.
Job Responsibilities
As a Horse Wrangler, your days will be fast-paced and varied. Your responsibilities include:
- Animal Welfare: Providing daily feeding, care, and health monitoring for wild horses and burros.
- Transport Operations: Operating heavy-duty trucks and horse trailers (up to 36 feet) to move animals safely between locations, including rough terrain.
- Corral Work: Using your equestrian skills to gather, sort, and handle animals while maintaining safety protocols.
- Public Interaction: Educating prospective adopters on how to safely handle and train the animals they receive.
- Facility Maintenance: General upkeep of holding facilities, including welding, fence repair, and basic equipment maintenance.
Requirements
Candidates must meet stringent standards to ensure the safety of both the team and the animals:
- CDL Requirement: Must possess or be able to acquire a Class A Commercial Driver’s License within six months.
- Riding Proficiency: High level of skill in horseback riding and roping is required.
- Fitness: Ability to perform heavy manual labor in all weather conditions.
- Background Check: Must pass a thorough background investigation and drug screening.
- Firearms: Must be comfortable and willing to qualify for firearm certification for use in humanely euthanizing animals if necessary.
Salary Overview
The pay rate for this position is established by the Federal Wage System and is competitive with specialized agricultural and transportation roles. Current ranges are:
| Position Level | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|
| WG-08 | $26.46 – $34.94 |
Benefits
Employees enjoy a comprehensive federal benefits package, including:
- Health insurance plans
- Life insurance
- Retirement pension plan
- Paid annual and sick leave
- Federal holiday recognition
Application Tips
Federal applications are unique. Ensure your two-page resume clearly highlights your experience with large livestock and heavy vehicle operation. Double-check all documents required in the job announcement, as missing paperwork is the #1 cause for disqualification.
The role of a BLM Horse Wrangler is challenging but deeply rewarding for those committed to the welfare of wild equines. If you have the drive and the equestrian background to manage these animals, we encourage you to apply and help sustain the health of public lands for generations to come.
Why This Horse Wrangler (Motor Vehicle Operator) Job Matters
Combine your passion for horsemanship with a vital public land conservation mission as a Horse Wrangler with the Bureau of Land Management.
Horse Wrangler (Motor Vehicle Operator) Job Overview
The Bureau of Land Management is seeking skilled individuals for the position of Horse Wrangler (Motor Vehicle Operator). This role is critical to the success of the Wild Horse and Burro (WH&B) Program, where you will manage the daily welfare, transport, and care of these iconic animals at holding facilities. You will be hands-on in the field and at the corral, ensuring humane treatment and operational safety while interacting with the public and potential adopters.
Requirements for Horse Wrangler (Motor Vehicle Operator)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
- Must pass a pre-employment and random drug screening.
- Possess or be able to obtain a Class A Commercial Driver's License (CDL) within six months.
- Ability to ride horseback and rope wild horses and burros proficiently.
- Must complete a background investigation and receive favorable adjudication.
- Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service.
- Must successfully complete biennial firearm qualification and certification.
- Ability to perform strenuous physical labor in extreme weather conditions.
Preferred Qualifications for Horse Wrangler (Motor Vehicle Operator)
- Advanced experience in handling and training wild or unbroken stock.
- Proven track record of safe operation of heavy-duty trailers (up to 36 feet) in off-road or challenging terrain.
- Experience in facility maintenance and operating heavy machinery.
- Demonstrated ability to provide educational guidance to the public regarding animal care.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health insurance programs.
- ✓Retirement planning through the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Paid federal holidays and leave accrual.
- ✓Career growth opportunities within the Department of the Interior.
- ✓Employee assistance programs.
💡 How to Apply Horse Wrangler (Motor Vehicle Operator) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Horse Wrangler (Motor Vehicle Operator) Job
- Create or update your profile on USAJOBS.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire.
- Upload required documents, including SF-50s (if current/former federal) and proof of veteran status if applicable.
- Submit your application package by the closing date of 11/12/2026.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume concise; the two-page limit is firm and mandatory.
- Be explicit about your experience level with horses and large trailers.
- Ensure your hours worked are clearly stated to ensure your experience is credited correctly.
- Review all required documents on the announcement to prevent disqualification.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the physical demand for this position?
The role requires significant physical exertion, including heavy lifting (hay bales over 100 lbs), riding horses for long periods, and working in varied, often harsh, weather conditions.
Is a CDL required immediately?
You must either currently possess a Class A CDL or have the ability to obtain one within six months of your start date.
Are there firearm requirements?
Yes, you must qualify with firearms twice a year, as you may be responsible for the humane euthanasia of animals if deemed medically necessary.
Job from Bureau Of Land Management
The Department of the Interior and the BLM are responsible for managing the nation’s public lands and natural resources. The Wild Horse and Burro Program is dedicated to managing and protecting these animals on public rangelands while maintaining the long-term health of our ecosystems. As a wrangler, you are an essential part of the team that ensures these animals receive ethical treatment during the phases of gathering, holding, and adoption.