1

Cattle Ranch Jobs in Nebraska (NOW HIRING)

Cattle Driver

Gibbon, NE · On-site

$13 - $17.50/hr

Cattle Driver Gibbon Packing, LLC an American Foods Group Company has an opportunity for a Cattle Driver at our Gibbon, NE plant. As Cattle Driver, you will: * Receive and weigh cattle * All cattle ...

All cattle must be inspected by I.I.C. (Inspector in charge) * Move to pen * Move cattle from pens to chute * Check water in pens and feed if necessary * Move cattle through the chute into the ...

All cattle must be inspected by I.I.C. (Inspector in charge) * Move to pen * Move cattle from pens to chute * Check water in pens and feed if necessary * Move cattle through the chute into the ...

Cattle Ranch information

See Nebraska salary details

$9

$16

$23

How much do cattle ranch jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for cattle ranch 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 rancher?

A cattle ranch job involves raising and managing cattle for beef or dairy production. Responsibilities may include feeding, herding, branding, maintaining ranch equipment, and ensuring the health of the herd. Workers may also assist in breeding efforts, monitor pasture conditions, and help with irrigation or fencing. Ranch jobs require physical labor and knowledge of livestock care. Some roles may also involve operating machinery or handling sales and transportation of cattle.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a cattle rancher?

To thrive as a Cattle Rancher, you need knowledge of animal husbandry, pasture management, and general agricultural practices, often gained through hands-on experience or agricultural studies. Proficiency in using ranch equipment, livestock tracking systems, and sometimes certifications in animal handling or pesticide application are common requirements. Strong problem-solving skills, resilience, and the ability to work independently or as part of a small team are important soft skills in this role. These abilities ensure healthy livestock, efficient operations, and effective management of daily ranch activities in often challenging environments.

What are the typical working conditions and work schedule for a cattle rancher?

Cattle Ranchers usually work outdoors in all types of weather, handling livestock, maintaining pastures, and operating equipment throughout the year. The job often requires early mornings, late evenings, and some weekend or holiday shifts, especially during calving season or periods of increased activity. While some responsibilities are solitary, ranchers also coordinate with veterinarians, suppliers, and sometimes supervise ranch hands. The role is physically demanding but offers a strong sense of accomplishment for those who enjoy working with animals and in natural settings.

Is being a cattle rancher a career?

A cattle rancher is a professional who manages and raises cattle on a ranch, often involving tasks such as herding, feeding, and maintaining the health of livestock. It is considered a full-time career that requires knowledge of animal husbandry, equipment operation, and environmental management. Many ranchers also need business skills and may pursue certifications or training in agriculture or livestock management.

What are the most commonly searched types of Cattle Ranch jobs in Nebraska?

The most popular types of Cattle Ranch jobs in Nebraska are:

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Cattle Ranch 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)

University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Lincoln, NE • On-site

$18.55/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

Position Information
Position Information
EEO Statement
Working Title
Cattle Ranch Hand (Clay Center, NE)
Department
USMARC-0937
Requisition Number
S_260672
Posting Open Date
08/19/2026
Application Review Date: (To ensure consideration, please submit all application materials before review date)
08/28/2026
Posting Close Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
Description of Work
The U.S. Meat Animal Research Center (USMARC) is a 34,000-acre facility located near Clay Center, NE. The 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 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 and the collection of research data.

Position requires irregular hours and work in inclement weather. Travel between pastures and facilities 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 positon.
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
  • Robust 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 or equivalency plus one year livestock production experience required; additional 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.

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