Temporary Sheep Farm Jobs in Nebraska (NOW HIRING)

Position Information
Position Information
Working Title
Sheep Ranch Hand (Clay Center, NE)
Department
USMARC-0937
Requisition Number
S_260644
Posting Open Date
08/10/2026
Application Review Date: (To ensure consideration, please submit all application materials before review date)
08/19/2026
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. 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 Sheep Ranch Hand, you will:

• Be responsible for care of livestock to include feeding, observation, and treatment of sheep population.
• Service and maintain equipment and buildings in the sheep facilities.
• Maintain the sanitation of sheep facilities.

Irregular hours and work in inclement weather is required. Ability to travel between locations onsite is required. In the UNL system, this position is categorized as an Ag Research Technician I. In the livestock industry, this position may be referred to as a herdsman or shepherd.
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 equivalent plus one year of ranch/farm experience required. Additional relevant education may substitute for experience on a year-for-year basis.
• Precision, accuracy and attention to detail necessary.
• Knowledge of farm machinery and equipment operation necessary.
• Valid driver's license and ability to meet University driving requirements.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with sheep and other livestock preferred but not required.

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