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Cowboy Jobs in Nebraska (NOW HIRING)

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Cowboy information

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$14

$19

$27

How much do cowboy jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for cowboy in Nebraska is $19.44, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.49 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What kind of jobs do cowboys do?

Cowboys work primarily in ranching and livestock management, performing tasks such as herding cattle, branding, roping, and maintaining fences. They often operate horseback and use tools like lariats and cattle prods, working outdoors in rural environments often requiring physical stamina and riding skills.

What does a cowboy do?

A typical day for a Cowboy often begins early and involves a variety of physically demanding tasks such as herding cattle, repairing fences, checking water supplies, and maintaining equipment. Depending on the season, you might participate in branding, sorting, or transporting livestock, as well as monitoring animal health and wellbeing. Much of the work is outdoors in all weather conditions, and collaboration with other ranch hands is common when managing large herds or tackling major projects. While days can be long, the role offers a direct connection to the land and animals, and opportunities for advancement into ranch management for those with strong leadership abilities.

Can you still get a job as a cowboy?

Yes, there are still employment opportunities for cowboys, especially in ranching, cattle herding, and rodeo industries. These jobs often require skills in animal handling, horseback riding, and knowledge of livestock management, with some positions requiring certifications or experience. Opportunities may vary based on location and industry demand.

What skills and qualifications does a cowboy need?

To thrive as a Cowboy, you need proficiency in horsemanship, cattle handling, roping, and basic animal husbandry, often gained through hands-on ranch experience or vocational training. Familiarity with ranch equipment such as saddles, branding tools, and sometimes ATVs or GPS for managing large herds is typical, while formal certifications may be required for aspects like livestock transport or safety. Strong work ethic, resilience, teamwork, and clear communication are essential soft skills for collaborating with ranch staff and adapting to changing conditions. These abilities ensure that livestock operations run smoothly, safely, and efficiently in a demanding work environment.

What jobs did cowboys have?

Cowboys primarily worked as cattle herders, responsible for driving and managing cattle across long distances. Their duties included roping, branding, and caring for livestock, often requiring skills in riding, horsemanship, and the use of tools like lassos and branding irons. They typically worked outdoors in rural environments and followed a seasonal schedule based on cattle drives and ranch operations.
What are the most commonly searched types of Cowboy jobs in Nebraska? The most popular types of Cowboy jobs in Nebraska are:
What are popular job titles related to Cowboy jobs in Nebraska? For Cowboy jobs in Nebraska, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Cowboy jobs in Nebraska look for? The top searched job categories for Cowboy jobs in Nebraska are:
What are popular job titles related to Cowboy jobs in NE? For Cowboy jobs in NE, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Cowboy jobs near you
Infographic showing various Cowboy 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 $40,441 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

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 20 days ago

Job description

Position Information
Position Information
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: 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
$18.00/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

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