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Cattle Ranch Jobs in Nebraska (NOW HIRING)

Cattle Ranch information

See Nebraska salary details

$9

$16

$23

How much do cattle ranch jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 9, 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 Ranch job?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Cattle Ranch position, and why are they important?

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.

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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,489 per year, or $16.6 per hour.
Cattle Ranch Hand (Clay Center, NE)

Cattle Ranch Hand (Clay Center, NE)

University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Lincoln, NE • On-site

$18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Position Information
Position Information
Working Title
Cattle Ranch Hand (Clay Center, NE)
Department
USMARC-0937
Requisition Number
S_260321
Posting Open Date
04/30/2026
Application Review Date: (To ensure consideration, please submit all application materials before review date)
05/11/2026
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. 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. In the livestock or beef 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? UNL is consistently recognized by Forbes as a top employer, known for our welcoming, supportive culture and outstanding benefits.
As a full-time, regular staff member, you'll enjoy:
  • Generous leave benefits including paid vacation, sick leave, parental leave, and holidays
  • Comprehensive insurance options: medical, dental, vision, and life coverage
  • Tuition assistance through employee and dependent scholarship programs
  • Retirement plans with university matching contributions
  • A workplace culture that values your time outside of work

Discover more about working at 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 of experience with the care and management of cattle 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 University 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 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