Temporary Forage Genetics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Position Information
Position Information
Working Title
Forage Technician (Clay Center, NE)
Department
USMARC-0937
Requisition Number
S_260420
Posting Open Date
05/29/2026
Application Review Date: (To ensure consideration, please submit all application materials before review date)
06/10/2026
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 Forage Technician, you will:

• Provide support to the Range & Forage Production Manager with pasture monitoring and pasture improvement programs.
• Collect, organize, and summarize data and samples to assess pasture composition, quality, and grazing utilization.
• Advise other staff members on issues related to grazing including environmental conditions and utilization data.
• Provide assistance to other operation areas including movement of cattle between pastures, farm and hay crews, and livestock management.

This position requires significant computer work, some evening and weekend hours, and work in inclement weather. Due to the size of the facility, a valid driver's license is required to travel between sites. Within the UNL system, this position is categorized as an Ag Research Technician I.
Note: Sponsorships 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 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 or equivalent experience, plus one year experience in livestock, range management, or related field required.
• Working knowledge of experimental or production animals and/or crops required.
• Knowledge of farm machinery/equipment operation, and application of herbicides/fertilizer/insecticides required.
• Precision, accuracy, attention to detail, and technical knowledge and ability necessary.
• Ability to plan and carry out maintenance/improvements of fields and pastures essential.
• Valid driver's license and ability to meet University driver eligibility criteria.

Preferred Qualifications
The following qualifications are preferred but not required:

• Associate's in livestock or range management;
• Experience in ag production; monitoring and evaluating pasture, experience with progressive rotational grazing systems; and/or cattle/sheep husbandry.

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