Position Information
Position Information
Working Title
Cattle Ranch Hand
Department
USMARC-0937
Requisition Number
S_260250
Posting Open Date
03/31/2026
Application Review Date: (To ensure consideration, please submit all application materials before review date)
04/10/2026
Posting Close Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
Description of Work
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 required. Travel between pastures and facilities required. Due to the size of the facility, a valid driver's license is required to travel between sites. Within the UNL system, this position is categorized as an Ag Research Technician I. In the livestock or beef industry, this position is sometimes referred to as a herdsman or cowboy.
Note: Sponsorships will not be offered for this position.
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
Learn more about working for UNL:
https://go.unl.edu/aboutus
As an EO employer, the University of Nebraska considers qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation. See
https://equity.unl.edu/notice-nondiscrimination
Minimum Required Qualifications
- High school diploma plus one year beef livestock production experience required; equivalent education/experience considered.
- 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 requirements.
Preferred Qualifications
Pre-Placement Driving Record Review Required
Yes
Physical Required
Yes
Commercial Driver's License (CDL) required. Subject to DOT approved pre-employment & random testing for alcohol and controlled substances.
No
Criminal History Background Check Required
Yes
Posted Salary
$18.00/hr minimum
How to Apply
Click on "Apply to this Job". You will then either create an application or edit your current application that is on file.
For questions or accommodations related to this position contact
Sheila Trampe, sheila.trampe@usda.gov
Job Category (old)
Office/Service
Job Type
Full-Time
Alternate Work Schedule (if other than 8-5)
Work Location (City, State)
Clay Center, NE
Position funded by grant or other form of temporary funding?
No
If Temporary, indicate end date
Planned Hire Date:
Appointment End Date
