Forage Technician (Clay Center, NE)

University of Nebraska–Lincoln; Nebraska; On-site; USD 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln is seeking a Forage Technician to support pasture monitoring and improvement programs at the U.S. Meat Animal Research Center. Candidates should have at least one year of relevant experience and a strong knowledge of livestock management and farm machinery operation.

This full-time position may require evening and weekend work. A valid driver’s license and a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) are necessary. The role emphasizes precision, accuracy, and the ability to perform physical tasks in various weather conditions.

Qualifications

• One year experience in livestock or related field required.
• Working knowledge of experimental or production animals and crops required.
• Valid driver’s license, ability to travel between sites.

Responsibilities

• Support the Range & Forage Production Manager with pasture monitoring.
• Collect and summarize data on pasture composition and grazing.
• Assist in livestock management and movement between pastures.

Skills

Attention to detail

Knowledge of farm machinery

Livestock management

Education

High school or equivalent experience

Tools

Farm machinery

Herbicides and fertilizers

Job description

Forage Technician

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.

Responsibilities

• 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. A valid driver’s license is required to travel between sites. The role is categorized as an Ag Research Technician I.

Qualifications

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.
• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) required. Subject to DOT approved pre‑employment & random testing for alcohol and controlled substances.

Preferred Qualifications

• 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.

Location: Clay Center, NE. Full‑time. Work schedule may include evenings, weekends, and travel between sites.

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.