El Capitan Ranch is a historic 214-acre coastal ranch located along the Gaviota Coast in Santa Barbara County, California. Originally part of a Spanish land grant dating back to 1769, the ranch is rooted in California’s vaquero heritage and is being thoughtfully restored with horsemanship practices inspired by Ray Hunt and Buck Brannaman.
Today, the ranch operates a diverse equestrian and cattle program, including horse breeding, training, sales, and special events. The property features multiple barns, paddocks, arenas, a 14-acre polo field, and miles of scenic riding trails.
About the Role
El Capitan Ranch is seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Ranch Bookkeeper to oversee the ranch’s day-to-day financial and administrative operations. This position is responsible for bookkeeping, payroll, budgeting, financial reporting, vendor management, and expense tracking across ranch operations, equine programs, and capital improvement projects.
Working closely with ownership and ranch leadership, the Ranch Bookkeeper will play a key role in maintaining financial accuracy, supporting operational efficiency, and helping steward the continued restoration and management of this historic coastal ranch. The ideal candidate is proactive, dependable, and comfortable managing a wide range of responsibilities in a dynamic ranch environment.
Qualifications
- 3–5+ years of bookkeeping, accounting, or financial administration experience.
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
- Strong working knowledge of accounting principles and financial reporting.
- Proficiency with QuickBooks (Desktop and/or Online).
- Experience in ranching, agriculture, equestrian operations, estate management, construction, or related industries preferred.
- Knowledge of payroll administration, sales tax reporting, and compliance requirements.
- Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and maintain strict confidentiality.
- Strong communication and problem-solving skills.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Management & Reporting
- Maintain the general ledger and chart of accounts
- Manage accounts payable and accounts receivable
- Reconcile bank, credit card, and loan accounts
- Prepare monthly financial statements, cash flow reports, and management reporting
- Monitor operating budgets and expenditures
- Coordinate with external CPAs on tax preparation and year-end reporting
- Administer payroll and ensure payroll tax compliance
Budgeting & Cost Tracking
- Assist with annual budget preparation and management
- Produce budget-to-actual reports and variance analyses
- Track expenses by horse, department, property, or project
- Monitor equine-related costs including veterinary, feed, bedding, transportation, and training expenses
- Maintain records for horse sales, breeding revenue, leases, and other income sources
Human Resources & Payroll Administration
- Support employee onboarding and personnel record management.
- Administer payroll for ranch employees and independent contractors.
- Assist with HR policies, compliance, and employee documentation.
Accounts Payable & Vendor Management
- Process and monitor high-volume recurring vendor invoices.
- Maintain vendor accounts and payment schedules.
- Manage purchase orders, invoices, and supporting documentation.
- Maintain W-9s, certificates of insurance, and contractor records.
Project & Construction Administration
- Track budgets, schedules, and expenditures for capital improvement projects.
- Monitor costs associated with ranch restoration, residential construction, arena and barn development, and infrastructure improvements.
- Coordinate financial reporting related to ongoing construction and development activities.
Compliance, Insurance & Risk Management
- Maintain commercial liability, Care, Custody & Control (CCC), workers’ compensation, automobile, and equipment insurance policies.
- Assist with regulatory compliance, licensing, and reporting requirements.
- Support risk management initiatives and documentation procedures.
Pay: $60,000.00 - $125,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
