University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Ranch Technician
Job Description

Job Summary:

Located in the Nebraska Sandhills near Whitman, the Gudmundsen Sandhills Laboratory (GSL) covers parts of Grant, Hooker, and Cherry counties. This working ranch and research facility is dedicated to improving sustainable livestock and land management practices. Ranch technicians at GSL play a hands-on role in supporting cattle operations, maintaining rangeland health, and contributing to real-world research that helps ranchers across the region.

As a Ranch Technician, you will:

  • Provide day-to-day care of cattle.
  • Maintenance and repair of facilities, vehicles and equipment.
  • Assist in data collection for a variety of studies.
  • Provide campus security and have the ability to respond in emergency situations.

Irregular work hours and strenuous physical labor is required. Must be able to work in inclement weather and temperatures from -30F to 100+F. Due to the remote location of worksite, housing is provided.

About Us:

At the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, we’re proud to be consistently recognized by Forbes as a top employer, known for our welcoming and supportive work environment, commitment to professional growth, and outstanding benefits. UNL isn’t just a workplace, it's a place to build your career and make a real impact in Nebraska.

When you join our team as a full-time, regular staff member, you’ll enjoy:

  • Ample paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, parental leave, and holidays
  • Comprehensive insurance options including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.
  • Employee & dependent scholarship program to pursue higher education
  • Generous retirement plans with university match

Required Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalency plus six (6) years of experience working on a cattle ranch.  Additional completed relevant education may substitute for experience on a year-for-year basis.
  • Ability to service and operate farm equipment.
  • Welding and mechanical ability.
  • Knowledge of cattle handling and hauling equipment.
  • Basic fencing skills.
  • Valid driver's license and ability to meet University driver eligibility requirements.

 

Preferred Qualifications:

The following qualifications are preferred but not required:

  • Associate's degree in agriculture, animal science, or other related field.
  • Basic skills with windmills.
  • Strong agriculture background.

 

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:  1416
Campus Name:  NU Institute of Agriculture & Natural Resources (IANR)
Org Unit:  West Central Rsch & Ext Center IANR
Job Location:  Whitman, NE 69366
Application Review Date:  10/28/25
Open Until Filled:  Yes
Advertised Salary:  $41,600/year minimum
Job Type:  Full-Time
Worksite Eligibility:  On-site
Benefits Eligible:  Yes
For questions or accommodations related to this position contact:  Kelly Bruns, 308-696-6702
Special Instructions to Applicant:  Click on "Apply Now". Create or login to account.

The University of Nebraska does not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation in its programs, activities, or employment.

 

Posting Start Date:  10/14/25