Cattle Ranch Hand
Job Description
Job Summary:
The U.S. Meat Animal Research Center (USMARC) is a 34,000-acre facility near Clay Center, NE. All work performed at USMARC supports research that is focused on solving high priority problems for the U.S. beef, sheep, and swine industries.
As a Cattle Ranch Hand, you will:
- Provide a variety of basic agricultural duties to support research and production activities at an agricultural research facility in the beef livestock production area.
- Provide general care and husbandry for approximately 800-1200 cattle.
- Maintain machinery and fences.
- Assist with pasture management.
- Assist with the collection of research data.
Irregular hours and work in inclement weather is required. Due to the size of the facility, a valid driver's license and ability to meet University driver eligibility criteria is required. Within the UNL system, this position is categorized as an Ag Research Technician I. In the livestock industry, this position is sometimes referred to as a herdsman or cowboy.
About Us:
Looking for a job where you can advance professionally and have time for life outside work? UNL is consistently recognized by Forbes as a top employer, known for our welcoming, supportive culture and outstanding benefits.
As a full-time, regular staff member, you'll enjoy:
- Generous leave benefits including paid vacation, sick leave, parental leave, and holidays
- Comprehensive insurance options: medical, dental, vision, and life coverage
- Tuition assistance through employee and dependent scholarship programs
- Retirement plans with university matching contributions
- A workplace culture that values your time outside of work
Discover more about working at UNL and our benefits: https://go.unl.edu/aboutus
Required Qualifications:
- High school diploma, GED, or equivalent plus one (1) year of experience with the care and management of cattle. Additional completed relevant education may substitute for experience on a year-for-year basis.
- Precision, accuracy and attention to detail necessary.
- Ability to maintain equipment, machinery, fields and pastures essential.
- Must have a valid driver’s license and meet UNL driver eligibility.
Compliance Requirements:
If selected for this position and a verbal offer is accepted, the final written offer will be contingent upon the successful completion of the following required pre-employment check(s):
- Pre-placement physical
- Criminal history background check
- Driving record review
Information at a Glance
Req Id:
1683
Campus Name:
NU Institute of Agriculture & Natural Resources (IANR)
Org Unit:
USMARC IANR
Job Location:
Clay Center, NE 68933
Application Review Date:
11/10/25
Open Until Filled:
Yes
Advertised Salary:
$18.00/hr minimum
Job Type:
Full-Time
Worksite Eligibility:
On-site
Benefits Eligible:
Yes
For questions or accommodations related to this position contact:
Sheila Trampe, sheila.trampe@usda.gov
Special Instructions to Applicant:
Click on "Apply Now". Create or login to account. If current employee, click on Employee login.
Posting Start Date:
10/31/25