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.

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.

All meals included for a small fee deducted from the bi-weekly paycheck. Lunches and most dinners are buffet style with the guests. We ask our staff to interact with the guests during these meal times to continue building relationships through the week long stay. Breakfasts are staff only in the Staff Room. Some dinners are buffet when the guests are in a formal meal. The staff room is open 24/7 for access to left overs, cereal bar, coffee/tea, etc. Most staff housing has a kitchen to use if needed.

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.