Job Description
Position Information Position Information
EEO Statement Working Title Cattle Ranch Hand (Clay Center, NE)
Department USMARC-0937
Requisition Number S_260402
Posting Open Date 05/26/2026
Application Review Date: (To ensure consideration, please submit all application materials before review date) 06/05/2026
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.
Position requires irregular hours and work in inclement weather. 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.
Note: Sponsorship will not be offered for this position. About Us Looking for a job where you can advance professionally and
have time for life outside work? At the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, we're proud to be consistently recognized by Forbes as a top employer and recently earned the
Lincoln Family Friendly Workplace certification. We are known for our welcoming, supportive 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 meaningful impact in Nebraska.
When you join our team as a full-time, regular staff member, you'll enjoy:
- Generous paid time off , including vacation, sick leave, parental leave, and holidays
- Comprehensive insurance options , including medical, dental, vision, and life coverage
- Employee and dependent scholarship programs to pursue higher education
- Retirement plans with university match
- A workplace culture that values your time outside of work
Learn more about working at UNL:
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. See
Minimum 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.
- Ability to maintain equipment, machinery, fields and pastures.
- Valid driver's license and ability to meet University driver eligibility criteria.
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 for 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
Job Tags
Full time, Temporary work, Work at office