Careers

Join Our Team at Upper Canyon Outfitters

Upper Canyon Outfitters (UCO) is a family-owned and operated guest ranch nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of southwest Montana. At UCO, we believe that our staff is our greatest investment, and we work hard to build a team that shares our commitment to excellence, hard work, and camaraderie. Joining the UCO team means rolling up your sleeves for long days filled with hard, manual labor—but it also means being part of an authentic Montana experience and creating unforgettable memories in this stunning part of the world.

We value balance and try to provide our staff with two days off each week, giving you the chance to explore the rugged beauty of Montana. On your days off, you’ll even have the opportunity to join in on ranch activities, such as trail rides or auto tours, if there’s space available.

Housing may be available, and we highly recommend having your own transportation, as the ranch is in a remote location. Having the freedom to venture off the ranch ensures you can fully embrace everything this extraordinary region has to offer.

What We’re Looking for in Applicants

A strong work ethic and dedication to getting the job done

Flexibility to adapt to the ranch’s dynamic needs

A strong sense of teamwork and collaboration

Excellent communication skills, especially when interacting with guests

A willingness to learn and take on new challenges

Honesty and integrity in all aspects of the job

While Montana’s natural beauty is easy to romanticize, we value authenticity over illusions. If you’re ready for an incredible, down-to-earth experience and are excited to be part of a hardworking and supportive team, we’d love to hear from you. Come help us create something truly special at Upper Canyon Outfitters

Apply Here

Seasonal Kitchen Team Member Position Open – Description Below

General

Head Housekeeper – Filled

General Responsibilities

The Head Housekeeper is responsible for all housekeeping duties at the ranch and helps ensure that guest spaces and common areas are clean, comfortable, and ready each day. This role is hands-on and detail-oriented. On high-turnover days, the Head Housekeeper helps organize and keep housekeeping tasks moving smoothly while working alongside 2–3 other team members.

Head Housekeeping Duties

Clean and maintain all guest rooms, cabins, and shared spaces

Keep common areas (lodge, bathrooms, porches, hallways, etc.) tidy and guest-ready

Complete full room turnovers between guests, including detailed cleaning

Assist with breakfast setup and light morning lodge duties as needed

Laundry & Supplies

Handle daily laundry for linens and towels

Fold, organize, and restock clean linens

Help monitor cleaning and laundry supplies and communicate needs

Team Coordination (Hands-On)

Work alongside other housekeeping staff on busy turnover days

Help communicate daily priorities and keep tasks moving efficiently

Step in wherever needed to ensure rooms are ready on time

Guest Interaction

Occasionally interact with guests in a friendly and professional manner

Communicate any guest needs or concerns to management

Schedule

Monday – Thursday, 6:00 am – 2:00 pm

Friday – 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Hours may adjust slightly during peak season or heavy turnover days

Characteristics of a Good Candidate

Takes pride in keeping spaces clean, organized, and welcoming

Willing to help wherever needed and follow tasks through to completion

Flexible and comfortable in a fast-paced, physical work environment

Communicates clearly with coworkers and guests

Reliable, self-motivated, and detail-oriented

Maintenance – Filled

General Responsibilities

This position supports the daily operation of the ranch through hands-on maintenance, lawn care, and irrigation work. The right person enjoys working independently, takes pride in keeping things running smoothly, and understands that good ranch operations happen behind the scenes.

This is a varied, physical role that combines mechanical upkeep, outdoor work, and seasonal priorities.

Duties of a Maintenance Person

Ranch Maintenance

Maintain and repair multiple buildings around the ranch

Perform routine vehicle and equipment maintenance

Check oil and fluids on ranch vehicles, buggies, and side-by-sides

Change oil and assist with basic mechanical upkeep

Lawns & Grounds

Lawn care for Upper Canyon Outfitters and three nearby ranch lawns

Watering and care of flower beds and landscaped areas

Coordinate mowing support with other ranch staff

Irrigation

Learn and manage the ranch’s ditch irrigation system

Move dams twice daily to water UCO fields

Monitor water flow and communicate any issues

Equipment & Skills

Basic carpentry and repair projects

Drive truck and trailer

Operate skid steer and tractor (or willingness to learn)

Additional Tasks

Other ranch-related maintenance tasks as needed, depending on season and priorities

Schedule

Monday – Friday

Characteristics of a Good Candidate

Has a solid base knowledge of general maintenance and equipment use

Physically capable of working outdoors, lifting heavy items, and staying active throughout the day

Comfortable working independently and identifying what needs to be done

Able to create and follow a maintenance schedule for vehicles and equipment

Reliable, observant, and follows tasks through to completion

Will be working closely with Jake McDonald and should communicate clearly and respectfully

Compensation

Pay DOE

Housing and meals provided

Tour Guide – Filled

General Responsibilities

This person will take out 4×4 tours, hiking tours, teach intro to fly fishing class to beginner anglers, and provide transport for Bill Tate during History tour. When tours are not going out, this person will be asked to help around the ranch.

Tour Guide Duties

Provide safe, fun excursions for guests

Take the side-by-sides out for tours. This person will be the only one that drives the side by side (not guests)

Lead safe, fun appropriate level hikes for guests

Teach a beginner fly fishing class. This will be for people that have never fly fished and would like to learn the basics

Help with dinner service 1 to 2 nights a week

Must be able to operate side-by-sides

Must know or be willing to learn basic maintenance of side by sides such as checking oil, tires, and filling with fuel

On days that tours are not going out, must be willing to help with other jobs such as maintenance, lawn, and other duties as assigned

Schedule

Sunday – Thursday

7 am until done

Characteristics of a Good Candidate

Be committed to the safety of self and guests on all tours

Willingness to learn. We will train you to know the area and different access points, but this person will have to be able and prepared to lead tours through the mountains by themselves.

Ability to understand and read a map. Most guides here use onX maps, an understanding of this or something similar would be beneficial

Understand or be willing to learn how to use Garmin for communication purposes

Willingness to help other UCO team members

High-level communication skills – we expect this person to be able to engage in conversations with guests. This person will have to help guests feel comfortable on the different tours

Kitchen

Seasonal Kitchen Team Member – Open

Seasonal Position: September 6 – November 28

Upper Canyon Outfitters is seeking a dependable, organized, and team-oriented Kitchen Team Member to help provide exceptional meals and hospitality for our guests. This position plays an important role in creating a welcoming experience by preparing delicious meals, maintaining a clean kitchen, and working closely with the rest of our hospitality team.

Schedule

Thursday: 3:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
- Lead Breakfast & Lunch
Friday: 6:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
- Lead Breakfast & Lunch
Saturday: 11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
- Dinner Assistant
Sunday: 3:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
- Breakfast & Lunch Assistant
Monday: 3:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
- Breakfast & Lunch Assistant

Housing and meals are provided throughout the season.

Responsibilities

Lead Cook (Thursday & Friday)

Prepare and serve breakfast and lunch for guests and staff.
Follow established menus while maintaining high food quality and presentation.
Ensure meals are prepared efficiently and served on time.
Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen.
Manage food preparation, stocking, and cleanup for breakfast and lunch service.

Breakfast & Lunch Assistant (Sunday & Monday)

Assist the lead cook with food preparation.
Prepare ingredients, beverages, baked goods, salads, desserts, and side dishes.
Wash dishes and maintain kitchen cleanliness throughout the day.
Help with food storage, organization, and end-of-shift cleanup.
Assist with meal service and ensure guests have a positive dining experience.

Dinner Assistant (Saturday)

Assist with dinner preparation and service.
Help plate meals and keep the kitchen running smoothly during service.
Assist with dishwashing and kitchen cleanup after dinner.

Qualifications

Previous kitchen or food service experience preferred but not required.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Dependable, punctual, and able to work early mornings.
Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment.
Strong attention to cleanliness, organization, and food safety.
Positive attitude and willingness to help wherever needed.

Physical Requirements

Ability to stand for extended periods.
Lift up to 40 pounds.
Bend, reach, and perform repetitive kitchen tasks.
Work safely in a warm kitchen environment.

What We Offer

Seasonal employment in the beautiful Ruby Valley of southwest Montana.
Housing and meals provided.
Supportive, team-focused work environment.
Opportunity to be part of creating memorable experiences for guests from around the country.

If you enjoy cooking, take pride in your work, and love being part of a hardworking team, we’d love to hear from you.

Kitchen Lead – Filled

General Responsibilities

The kitchen team is extremely important to UCO. We cannot control the weather or water conditions, but we can always be sure to provide wonderful service and delicious meals. The person that takes this position will be in charge of the kitchen. They will be tasked with creating a menu, meal planning, acquiring food, preparation of assigned meals, organizing of kitchen team, and cleanliness of kitchen and storage areas. While kitchen skills will be very important in this position, we will hold leadership and people skills to as high of a priority.

Kitchen Lead Duties

Create the dinner menu.

This person will be in charge of the preparation and service of dinner. A more comprehensive breakdown of this can be provided upon request

Oversee the breakfast and lunch menu.

This person will manage the breakfast and lunch cook

Order all supplies, food items.

Research the best option for food/product purchases

A thorough, weekly inventory of all food items/paper products at the ranch

Order all food items/paper products

Be sure to be able to find a way to order/purchase fresh fruit and veggies for each week

We will no longer be serving canned veggies or fruit

Help create a positive work environment

This position will be in a lead position and will be expected to have clear, positive communication with the other UCO staff

Alternate meal options to accommodate any dietary needs should be done the week before guest arrival

Track food costs

Oversee cleanliness of kitchen and service area

Oversee kitchen team in preparation and service of meals

Schedule

Sunday – Thursday

Salaried – but hours are around 11 – close

Characteristics of a Good Candidate

Strong Leadership Abilities – the person that fills this position will be in charge of creating a positive working environment that allows for hard work and accomplishment by all involved. We are looking for an inclusive leader.

Communication Skills – this person will have to be able to communicate with staff, guests and other food-related business. It will be important that messages are clear and to the point. We work hard to treat all our staff with respect and we expect our management team to do the same.

Ability to take initiative – There are a lot of moving parts at UCO and we need the leader of each department to be able to make decisions and execute work without a ton of direction or oversight from the head managers. That being said, we like to place trust in the decisions this person will make and allow them to decide on many aspects of running the kitchen.

Flexibility – While we work hard to be as organized as possible, people on vacations can change their mind from time to time. We want the person in this position to know that we do our best to provide consistency for them, but there are times that dinner count will change by two or three.

Experience – At least 5 years professional kitchen experience

Breakfast/Lunch Chef – Filled

General Responsibilities

This person will be in charge of most breakfasts and lunch and one dinner a week. This position will require initiative and accountability as they will be in charge of production and service of their meal. They will also help the Kitchen Lead in preparation, cleanliness and other kitchen related responsibilities.

Breakfast/Lunch Chef Duties

Creating a breakfast and lunch menu. This will be in collaboration with the kitchen lead

Executing the breakfast and lunch menu Sunday through Wednesday

Prepping food for Kitchen Lead

Helping manage kitchen

Prepping and cooking Dinner on Saturdays

Other duties as assigned in the kitchen

Schedule

Sunday – Wednesday, 6:30 am – 2:30 pm

Saturday 11 am – 8 pm

Characteristics of a Good Candidate

Willing to help in all aspects of kitchen work

Communication Skills – this person will have to be able to communicate with staff, guests and other food related business. It will be important that messages are clear and to the point. We work hard to treat all our staff with respect and we expect our management team to do the same.

Kitchen Assistant – Filled

Key Responsibilities

Primary Duties

Assist the Kitchen Lead with food preparation for dinners, including chopping, mixing, and other prep tasks.

Take the lead on breakfast and lunch preparation and service on Thursdays and Fridays, ensuring high-quality meals for our guests.

Help with baking and food prep tasks throughout the week.

Ensure the kitchen remains clean, organized, and stocked, adhering to food safety and cleanliness standards.

Serve dinners on Saturday through Monday, engaging with guests in a professional and friendly manner.

Clean up after lunch and dinner services, including washing dishes, wiping down surfaces, and organizing the kitchen for the next shift.

Assist with food storage tasks, such as proper labeling, cooling, and stocking supplies.

Perform other kitchen-related duties as assigned to support the smooth operation of the ranch.

Schedule

Flexibility is required, as duties may vary based on the ranch’s needs.

Workdays: Thursday through Monday

Days Off: Tuesday and Wednesday

Saturday to Monday Hours: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM, assisting the chef with lunch clean-up and dinner service.

Thursday and Friday Hours: Breakfast and lunch shifts, including baking, prep, and service duties.

Qualifications

Proven kitchen and food service experience, preferably in a fast-paced, guest-focused environment.

Strong knowledge of food preparation, safety, and sanitation standards.

Excellent communication skills, with the ability to interact professionally and warmly with guests during meal service.

Attention to detail and the ability to maintain a clean and organized workspace.

A strong work ethic and ability to complete tasks efficiently and to a high standard.

Flexibility to handle varied tasks and work in a dynamic environment.

Willingness to collaborate as part of a team and adapt to the ranch’s daily needs.

Characteristics of a Successful Candidate

A positive and helpful attitude, willing to step in wherever needed.

Strong sense of teamwork and collaboration.

Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail.

Enthusiasm for delivering high-quality meals and a memorable guest experience.

What We Offer

The chance to work in a stunning, remote ranch setting surrounded by Montana’s natural beauty.

Opportunities to join ranch activities during your days off, such as trail rides or fishing (subject to availability).

Housing may be available.

Competitive pay based on experience.

Kitchen Assistant/Housekeeping – Filled

Key Responsibilities

Kitchen Assistance:

Support the Kitchen Lead with food preparation for breakfast and dinner.

Assist with setting up and serving dinners, ensuring smooth service with a professional and friendly demeanor.

Clean up after breakfast and lunch, maintaining high standards of cleanliness and organization.

Manage food storage tasks, such as labeling, storing leftovers, and maintaining inventory.

Ensure compliance with food safety and cleanliness standards at all times.

Perform other kitchen-related duties as assigned to support daily operations.

Housekeeping Assistance:

Assist with daily housekeeping tasks, including cleaning guest rooms, cabins, and common areas to the ranch’s high standards.

Restock guest room supplies, such as linens, toiletries, and other amenities.

Perform laundry duties as needed.

Support the team in maintaining the ranch’s welcoming and pristine environment.

Schedule

Flexibility is key, as tasks and shifts may vary depending on operational needs.

Workdays: Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday

Days Off: Saturday, Monday

Shifts: Varied, with responsibilities covering mornings for breakfast, afternoons for housekeeping, and evenings for dinner service.

Qualifications

A positive and adaptable attitude with a strong willingness to help wherever needed.

Flexibility to handle a mix of tasks and varying schedules.

Excellent communication skills, especially during dinner service, to engage with guests in a friendly and professional manner.

Strong work ethic and ability to follow through on tasks to completion.

Experience in food preparation, kitchen support, or housekeeping is a plus, but not required—we are happy to train the right candidate!

What We Offer

The opportunity to work in a stunning ranch setting between three mountain ranges.

A supportive team environment where everyone works together to create a memorable guest experience.

Meals and lodging provided

Competitive pay based on experience.

The ability to join activities on off days, when seats are available

Other Team Members

Office Assistant – Filled

Duties of Office Assistant

Greet clients in a friendly, efficient manner

Check guests in and out

Help with any questions about the ranch

Maintain and sell store inventory

Keep office clean

Data entry

Answering phones and emails

Help with dinner service 2-3 nights a week

Help with housekeeping on Fridays

Other duties as assigned

Run Social Media – Facebook, Instagram, TikTok

Collect and organize photos from guides

Schedule

Monday – Thursday (Times TDB)

Friday (7 am – 8:30 am Office, 8:30 am – 3 pm Housekeeping)

Characteristics of a Good Candidate

Effective communication skills. We will want this person to be able to communicate clearly and in a friendly manner with our guests and staff team. Communication will be verbal and written.

Initiative. This person will have to be a self-starter that is responsible to keep themselves busy.

Multitasker. This job can have 100 things happening at once! This person will have to be able to be flexible and open to interruptions.

Growth mindset. This person will have to be able to learn a number of new systems and facts about uco.

Be a team player. This person will be a contact point for both staff and guests and they will have to support fellow staff members with pertinent information.

Apply Here

Careers

406-842-5884

Join Our Team at Upper Canyon Outfitters

What We’re Looking for in Applicants

Seasonal Kitchen Team Member Position Open – Description Below

General

Head Housekeeper – Filled

General Responsibilities

Head Housekeeping Duties

Laundry & Supplies

Team Coordination (Hands-On)

Guest Interaction

Schedule

Characteristics of a Good Candidate

Maintenance – Filled

General Responsibilities

Duties of a Maintenance Person

Ranch Maintenance

Lawns & Grounds

Irrigation

Equipment & Skills

Additional Tasks

Schedule

Characteristics of a Good Candidate

Compensation

Tour Guide – Filled

General Responsibilities

Tour Guide Duties

Schedule

Characteristics of a Good Candidate

Kitchen

Seasonal Kitchen Team Member – Open

Schedule

Responsibilities

Qualifications

Physical Requirements

What We Offer

Kitchen Lead – Filled

General Responsibilities

Kitchen Lead Duties

Schedule

Characteristics of a Good Candidate

Breakfast/Lunch Chef – Filled

General Responsibilities

Breakfast/Lunch Chef Duties

Schedule

Characteristics of a Good Candidate

Kitchen Assistant – Filled

Key Responsibilities

Primary Duties

Schedule

Qualifications

Characteristics of a Successful Candidate

What We Offer

Kitchen Assistant/Housekeeping – Filled

Key Responsibilities

Kitchen Assistance:

Housekeeping Assistance:

Schedule

Qualifications

What We Offer

Other Team Members

Office Assistant – Filled

Duties of Office Assistant

Schedule

Characteristics of a Good Candidate