Vista Verde Ranch
Vista Verde Ranch
“We create a compelling guest ranch experience in a distinctly western, yet luxurious, atmosphere that connects heart with home.” With this as our goal, we believe the VVR Staff is the cornerstone of our success as one of Colorado’s best guest ranches and our commitment to excellence has earned us the prestigious AAA 4 Diamond distinction year after year!
25 miles from Steamboat Springs, Colorado
- Location
- Colorado
- Season
- Summer, Fall, Winter, and Year Round
- Staff size
- 50-60 people
- Housing
- Whether included in the compensation package or provided at a cost, housing is provided for staff.
- Housing details
- On-site
- Pet friendly
- No
- Meals
- Provided
- Cell phone service
- Some, ask for details
- Internet access
- Good
About Vista Verde Ranch
Vista Verde Ranch is a luxury guest ranch that provides our customers with beautifully appointed accommodations, compelling activities, and delectable dining - showcasing the grandeur of the West---25 miles north of Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Our commitment to excellence has earned the prestigious AAA 4 Diamond distinction year after year.
We are currently seeking motivated self-starters to join our team who are willing to take on challenges with a positive attitude. The ranch provides staff housing, meals, and laundry facilities on-site, for a small fee.
The Employee Experience
Come spend a season working among some of the best and brightest in the guest ranching industry. It is our goal at Vista Verde to provide our staff with the opportunity to grow as leaders in a safe and positive environment. We believe that community is the cornerstone of our success as one of Colorado's best guest ranches and are always seeking out colorful new personalities for our diverse staff. Our employees come from a variety of different backgrounds but share a common interest in serving those around them.
When we're not on the clock, our staff enjoys taking advantage of all that rural Routt County has to offer. During the winter months, we can be found skiing and snowshoeing a few miles from the rugged Zirkel Wilderness Area. While the summer months offer great opportunities for camping, hiking, biking, and fly-fishing.
Ideal Candidate
Because we live and work in the same space, we are committed to maintaining a community based on traditional values, authentic relationships, and healthy living. As a staff, many of our young guests view us as role models, and we take seriously the opportunity to exemplify hard work, kindness, gratitude, and an “others first” attitude.
Our community culture is the single most important factor in our guest’s experience, and we are committed to maintaining a positive and healthy staff while avoiding drama – and that which causes it – at all costs. To this end, there is a code of conduct that all of us who work at the ranch subscribe to, and we expect those who come to work at Vista Verde to agree and abide by these rules. The following are not tolerated and are grounds for dismissal:
- Irresponsible behavior regarding alcohol (drunkenness, parties, etc.)
- Underage drinking
- Illegal drug use
- Abuse of prescription drugs
- While the use of marijuana is legal in the state of Colorado for individuals over the age of 21, to be a VVR employee you must be marijuana-free.
You will be required to pass a drug test upon a conditional offer of employment, and we reserve the right to test any employee(s) we reasonably suspect in violation of this policy.
Our housing is gender-based, and we protect the privacy of the individual by limiting access to our housing to the residents of that particular unit. Our buildings and residences are smoke-free, and smoking is limited to remote parts of the ranch, and we strongly encourage staff to be tobacco-free.
Although we love animals, we have plenty already at the ranch so we do not allow staff to bring pets.
We do not discriminate based on gender identity, sexual orientation, age, religious or political beliefs, marital status, race, or economic status.
Our community values are something we feel strongly about and feel the clean lifestyle gives our staff the best opportunity to form authentic relationships, grow, and pursue healthy habits. It is understandable that our community may not be a “fit” for everyone, and we simply ask that you consider our policies before applying to live and work here. If you are concerned about your ability to follow our code of conduct, please consider other options. If we sound like the type of community you would like to be a part of, please continue on to our application. Again, thanks for your thoughtful consideration.
Room and Board
Housing is bunkhouse style. We do not have housing suitable for married couples or pets, nor is it possible to have private housing. It is imperative you respect the space and belongings of your roommates. Bed linens, pillows, and towels are provided. Storage space is very limited, so please pack appropriately. We will supply a suggested gear list for new employees.
Employee Perks
Our compensation package consists of a base hourly rate and an equitable share of the tip pool. Because we believe every staff member contributes equally to the overall guest experience, the tip share for all staff members is also equal. There is no extra financial benefit for working in one position or another. Food and facilities are provided at a nominal daily rate. Our staff also have the opportunity to participate in activities such as horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking, and more as space allows on those guest trips.
Getting Here and Getting Around
Vista Verde Ranch is located approximately 25 miles from Steamboat Springs and Steamboat Resorts. Staff are welcome to bring a vehicle to the ranch, and about half our staff do just that. However, vehicles must be parked in designated staff parking areas.
If you choose to fly, our closest airport is in Hayden, CO (Yampa Valley Regional Airport). It’s approximately one hour from the ranch and we would be happy to pick you up there. Otherwise, you can take a shuttle from the Denver airport to Steamboat Springs, CO and we would pick you up in town.
For Fun
Summer: mountain biking, horseback riding, hiking, fly-fishing and camping in the Routt National Forest.
Winter: downhill skiing/snowboarding at Steamboat Resort, cross-country skiing, backcountry skiing, snowmobiling, horseback rides / clinics, sleigh rides, snow-shoeing, and tubing.
Current Job Openings
Office
The office staff creates a seamless experience for the guest from the discovery of Vista Verde to post stay. They manage inquiries, book reservations, check guests in and out, collect pertinent information and distribute it to other departments, organize guest transportation, book ranch activities as well as outfitter activities, organize special events, and are the overall link between the guests and the staff.
Dishwasher
Dishwashers are responsible for cleaning dishes to ensure that the kitchen has a steady supply of clean equipment to produce meals for guests and staff. In addition to washing dishes, this position will help the kitchen prep food and maintain staff room cleanliness. This role is a great place to start if there is interest in the culinary arts as the dishwasher will be working alongside highly skilled chefs and a tight knit team.
Dishwashers are exempt from food and facilities cost!
Prep Cook
Our kitchen is renowned for producing high quality, gourmet fare. Prep cooks help in all aspects of kitchen operation, including preparation of food for meals, simple baking, and light cleaning. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to gain experience in the culinary arts, or someone who simply enjoys cooking.
Line Cook
Seeking a clean working chef with previous experience and the ability to work in all areas of the kitchen. Would be responsible for food prep, proper sanitation practices, line work, as well as effectively working with the culinary team. Must have a willingness to serve and positively interact with staff and guests.
Ranch Operations : Housekeepers
Housekeeping : The Ranch Operations crew is responsible for the cleanliness of guest accommodations and public spaces on the ranch. Duties include daily cleaning of guest cabins and public spaces, laundry, nightly turndowns, and weekly turnovers of all cabins.
Chores : There's a lot that goes on around the ranch, and this crew helps with those extra projects, ranch wide chores, and filling in where needed!
Ranch Hand
Ranch Hands oversee general ranch maintenance and transportation. Ranch hands must be 21 years or older with a valid driver’s license and clean driving record. The position can be physically demanding in both summer and winter weather as duties include snow removal, landscaping and grounds keeping, pool and hot tub care, vehicle care, helping guests with luggage, and other daily and seasonal tasks.
Guide: Fly Fishing
VVR guides need to be knowledgeable in the outdoors, physically fit, and provide a safe and compelling trip while being attentive to the guest’s needs and requests. Guides are expected to jump into other guiding roles as needed to support all guiding out of the Adventure Center. Candidates must be 21 or older, hold a current up-to-date CPR/First Aid certification, and have a clean driving record.
Knowledgeable in fly fishing and casting techniques, know how to read water and understand the intricacies of finding and catching trout. Ideal candidates are available full time from mid-May until the end of October.
Guide: Backcountry Ski & Snowshoe
VVR guides need to be knowledgeable in the outdoors, physically fit, and provide a safe and compelling trip while being attentive to the guest’s needs and requests. Guides are expected to jump into other guiding roles as needed to support all guiding out of the Adventure Center. Candidates must be 21 or older, hold a current up-to-date CPR/First Aid certification, and have a clean driving record.
Backcountry Ski and Snowshoe : A basic knowledge of the Nordic ski sports along with experience in the backcountry.
Ice Fishing : Knowledgeable in ice fishing techniques and ice quality.
Snowmobiling : Experience with snow machine handling and backcountry terrain.
Wrangler
It is essential that wranglers have considerable equine experience, as they are responsible for the safety of both our guests and our animals. Wranglers prepare for and lead trail rides, offer riding instruction, and are responsible for the care and well-being of our herd of 100 horses. Applicants need strong interpersonal skills, and must be willing to work with both adults and children. Candidates must be 21 or older and hold current up-to-date CPR/First Aid certification.
Dining Room : Servers
Serving : Servers ensure that guests have a positive experience during happy hour, meal times, and food related activities such as wine tasting and cooking class.
Guide: Hiking & Mountain Biking
VVR guides need to be knowledgeable in the outdoors, physically fit, and provide a safe and compelling trip while being attentive to the guest’s needs and requests. Guides are expected to jump into other guiding roles as needed to support all guiding out of the Adventure Center. Candidates must be 21 or older, hold a current up-to-date CPR/First Aid certification, and have a clean driving record.
Experience and comfort with mountain biking on technical terrain as well as basic bike mechanical understanding.
How to Apply
Please learn more about us at our website by clicking APPLY HERE below. You'll find complete job descriptions as well as our online job application.
We look forward to hearing from you!
Contact Info
- Mette Rousseau
- jobs@vistaverde.com
- (970) 879-1610
- www.vistaverde.com
