Livestock and Farm Operations Technician (Sidney, NE)

Position Information Working Title: Livestock and Farm Operations Technician (Sidney, NE) Department: Panhandle Research, Extension and Education Center-0942 Requisition Number: S_260208 Posting Open Date: 03/25/2026 Application Review Date: 04/22/2026 Open Until Filled: Yes 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. Responsibilities 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, and 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. Location: Sidney, NE. 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. Benefits 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 Equal Employment Opportunity 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 Minimum Required Qualifications 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 equipment (tilling, planting, spraying, and harvesting) and cattle equipment such as 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. CDL or ability to obtain commercial driver's license within six months of employment. Preferred Qualifications None specified. Additional Requirements Pre‑Placement Driving Record Review Required: Yes Physical Requirements: Yes Commercial Driver's License (CDL) required. Subject to DOT approved pre‑employment & random testing for alcohol and controlled substances: Yes Criminal History Background Check Required: Yes Salary and Employment Posted Salary: $20.00/hr minimum Job Type: Full‑Time Alternate Work Schedule: Weekends and evenings may be required seasonally Work Location: Sidney, NE #J-18808-Ljbffr