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Cattle Ranch Worker Jobs in Nebraska (NOW HIRING)

Adams Land & Cattle, LLC

$21 - $25/hr

Prior to our cattle leaving the lot, each animal is electronically verified to make sure they are ... Feedlot, sale barn, and/or ranch experience is preferred. This position requires: * Individual must ...

All JobsCattle Ranch Worker JobsCattle Ranch Worker Jobs in Nebraska

Cattle Ranch Worker information

See Nebraska salary details

$9

$16

$23

How much do cattle ranch worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for cattle ranch worker in Nebraska is $16.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.75 and $18.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a cattle ranch worker?

Cattle ranch workers are agricultural professionals who care for and manage cattle on ranches. Their responsibilities typically include feeding, herding, branding, vaccinating, and monitoring the health of livestock, as well as maintaining ranch equipment and facilities. Cattle ranch workers may also help with breeding, birthing, and transporting cattle. The job often requires physical labor, basic animal husbandry skills, and the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions. These workers play a vital role in ensuring the health and productivity of cattle operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a cattle ranch worker?

A Cattle Ranch Worker must have practical knowledge of livestock handling, basic animal health care, and physical stamina, often gained through hands-on experience or agricultural training. Familiarity with equipment like tractors, fencing tools, and possibly certifications in animal husbandry or safety procedures is common. Strong communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills are valuable for coordinating with others and responding to unexpected challenges. These abilities are crucial for maintaining animal welfare, ensuring operational efficiency, and contributing to the overall success of the ranch.

What are some of the typical challenges a cattle ranch worker may face during calving season?

During calving season, Cattle Ranch Workers often encounter long hours and unpredictable work schedules, as they need to monitor cows closely for signs of labor and assist with difficult births. The role may require quick decision-making and physical stamina, especially when dealing with adverse weather conditions or unexpected animal health issues. Collaborating with veterinarians or senior ranch staff is common to ensure the well-being of both cows and newborn calves. Adaptability and effective communication are essential to address these seasonal challenges successfully.

What is the difference between Cattle Ranch Worker vs Livestock Handler?

AspectCattle Ranch WorkerLivestock Handler
CredentialsNone required, some experience preferredNone required, experience in handling livestock beneficial
Work EnvironmentRanches, open fields, outdoorFarms, ranches, outdoor settings
Industry UsagePrimarily in cattle ranchingBroader livestock industry, including cattle, sheep, goats

Both roles involve outdoor work with livestock, but Cattle Ranch Workers focus specifically on cattle, while Livestock Handlers may work with various animals. The job duties overlap in feeding, herding, and maintaining animal health, making them similar but with different specialization.

What are popular job titles related to Cattle Ranch Worker jobs in Nebraska?

For Cattle Ranch Worker jobs in Nebraska, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Cattle Ranch Worker jobs in Nebraska look for?

The top searched job categories for Cattle Ranch Worker jobs in Nebraska are:

What cities in Nebraska are hiring for Cattle Ranch Worker jobs?

Cities in Nebraska with the most Cattle Ranch Worker job openings:

Cattle Ranch Worker jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cattle Ranch Worker job openings in Nebraska as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,489 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

Cattle Ranch Hand (Clay Center, NE)

Lincoln, NE • On-site

University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about University of Nebraska-Lincolnexternal

$18.55/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Position Information
Position Information
Working Title
Cattle Ranch Hand (Clay Center, NE)
Department
USMARC-0937
Requisition Number
S_260555
Posting Open Date
07/17/2026
Application Review Date: (To ensure consideration, please submit all application materials before review date)
07/29/2026
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 cattle, 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. Within the UNL system, this position is categorized as an Ag Research Technician I.
About Us
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

Learn more about working at UNL: https://go.unl.edu/aboutus
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 https://go.unl.edu/nondiscrimination
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
$18.55/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

Apply