Livestock and Farm Operations Technician; Sidney, NE

Livestock and Farm Operations Technician (Sidney, NE)

Description of Work: The High Plains Ag Lab (HPAL) in Sidney, NE is a satellite unit of the Panhandle Research and Extension Center in Scottsbluff. Our mission is to improve the profitability of dryland crop and livestock production through applied research responsive to the needs of local producers. HPAL covers 2,400 acres, one‑third in dryland crop rotations and two‑thirds in pasture.

As the Livestock and Farm Operations Technician, you will:

• Provide dual research support for both Cow‑Calf/Range Management Specialist and HPAL Farm Manager.
• Work with and care for cattle used primarily in cow‑calf/range programs including feeding, administering medications, assisting with sample collection from animals and range/grassland areas, and collecting and managing data.
• Maintain fences, watering systems, feeding equipment and assist graduate students with research.
• Perform or assist HPAL staff with all aspects of dryland farming from planting to harvest, performing equipment maintenance, and maintaining detailed records.
• Irregular hours and working in inclement weather may be required seasonally.

Position is located in Sidney, Nebraska. Valid driver’s license and ability to meet University driving criteria required. Must obtain commercial driver’s license within six months of employment. In the UNL system, this position is categorized as an Ag Research Technician II.

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

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.
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• High school diploma or equivalency plus 4 years of experience with care and management of cattle and/or crop production;
  OR
• Associate degree in related field plus 2 years of experience with care and management of cattle and/or crop production;
  OR
• Bachelor’s degree in related field.
• Experience with operation and maintenance/routine service of cropping (i.e. tilling, planting, spraying, and harvesting) and cattle equipment, tractors, pickups and 4‑wheelers.
• Basic computer experience for email, data entry, and record keeping.
• Ability to haul cattle and equipment; work safely and comfortably with and around livestock; maintain, repair, and build fencing and animal watering systems.
• Valid driver’s license and ability to meet University driving criteria required.
• CDL or ability to obtain commercial driver’s license within six months of employment.

• Pre‑Placement Driving Record Review Required.
• Physical
  
  Required:
  
  Yes.
• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) required. Subject to DOT approved pre‑employment & random testing for alcohol and controlled substances.
• Criminal History Background Check Required.

To apply, click the “Apply for this Job” button and follow the instructions. For questions or accommodations related to this position, contact the hiring office.