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Full Time Ranch Hand Jobs in Nebraska (NOW HIRING)

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Full Time Ranch Hand information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Full Time Ranch Hand, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Full Time Ranch Hand, you need practical experience with livestock care, equipment operation, fencing, and general farm maintenance, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with tools such as tractors, ATVs, irrigation systems, and sometimes certification in animal handling or machinery operation is highly valued. Strong work ethic, reliability, physical stamina, and the ability to communicate and work well in a team are crucial soft skills. These abilities ensure the smooth daily operation of the ranch, animal well-being, and a safe, productive work environment.

What are some typical challenges faced by full-time ranch hands, and how can they best prepare for them?

Full-time ranch hands often encounter challenges such as unpredictable weather, long and physically demanding workdays, and the need to handle livestock safely. Being adaptable and prepared for changing conditions is crucial, as tasks can range from repairing fences to assisting with animal care at any time. Building strong communication skills also helps, since ranch hands typically work closely with other staff and must coordinate activities to keep the ranch running smoothly. Gaining experience with machinery, livestock handling, and learning basic veterinary care can make the role more manageable and rewarding.

What are full time ranch hands?

Full time ranch hands are employees who work on ranches, performing a variety of tasks to support daily operations. Their duties typically include caring for livestock, maintaining fences and equipment, assisting with planting and harvesting crops, and ensuring the general upkeep of the ranch. They may also help with feeding animals, cleaning barns, repairing structures, and operating machinery. Full time ranch hands often work long hours and may be required to live on-site. This position is essential for keeping a ranch running efficiently and safely.

What is the difference between Full Time Ranch Hand vs Part Time Ranch Hand?

AspectFull Time Ranch HandPart Time Ranch Hand
Work HoursTypically 40+ hours per weekFewer hours, often less than 20 hours per week
Employment StatusFull-time, often benefits includedPart-time, usually no benefits
ResponsibilitiesComplete daily ranch chores, maintenance, animal careAssists with chores, limited responsibilities
CredentialsExperience in ranch work, sometimes certifications in animal careLess experience required, may not need certifications

Full Time Ranch Hands work full-time hours with comprehensive responsibilities and often receive benefits, while Part Time Ranch Hands work fewer hours with limited duties and typically no benefits. The choice depends on your availability and experience level in ranch work.

What are the most commonly searched types of Ranch Hand jobs in Nebraska? The most popular types of Ranch Hand jobs in Nebraska are:
What are popular job titles related to Full Time Ranch Hand jobs in Nebraska? For Full Time Ranch Hand jobs in Nebraska, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Full Time Ranch Hand jobs in Nebraska look for? The top searched job categories for Full Time Ranch Hand jobs in Nebraska are:
What cities in Nebraska are hiring for Full Time Ranch Hand jobs? Cities in Nebraska with the most Full Time Ranch Hand job openings:
Full Time Ranch Hand jobs near you
Infographic showing various Full Time Ranch Hand job openings in Nebraska as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.
Cattle Ranch Hand

Cattle Ranch Hand

University of Nebraska-Lincoln

Lincoln, NE • On-site

$18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Position Information
Position Information
Working Title
Cattle Ranch Hand
Department
USMARC-0937
Requisition Number
S_260320
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 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 position.
About Us
At the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, we're proud to be consistently recognized by Forbes as a top employer, known for our welcoming and supportive work environment, commitment to professional growth, and outstanding benefits. UNL isn't just a workplace; it's a place ot build your career and make a real impact in Nebraska.
When you join our team as a full-time, regular staff member, you'll enjoy:
  • Ample paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, parental leave, and holidays
  • Comprehensive insurance options including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance
  • Employee & dependent scholarship program to pursue higher education
  • Generous retirement plans with university match

Learn more about working for 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 or equivalency plus one year of experience with care and management of cattle; 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

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