Ranch hand/ Feed Wagon Operator

Talent Solutions • Blaine County, NE

4d • Onsite

About The Position

A progressive, growing cattle operation is seeking a working couple or two candidates who work well together to support daily cattle and feeding operations. The role is primarily focused on operating a tractor and feed wagon, feeding cattle, and supporting a growing cattle-feeding program. Feeding takes place from September through May; summer work focuses on haying, maintenance, and preparing feed pens for the next feeding season. This is a hands-on position for a self-starter with strong mechanical skills who can work independently. It is not primarily a cowboying job. The role also includes helping process cattle arriving at the lot. Horseback work may occasionally be requested; riding is not required. The ranch provides horses, and candidates may be allowed to bring one or two using horses with approval.

This is a full-time, year-round position. Work schedules vary by season, weather, and workload. Starting pay is $20 per hour, with increases based on experience and performance. Housing is provided off-site in a neighboring town about 15 minutes from the ranch. A ranch pickup is provided for commuting, and a ranch vehicle is available for ranch use. Beef is available. Health insurance is not provided. The operation is growing and offers a long-term opportunity for motivated employees to take ownership and responsibility without micromanagement.

Requirements

• Experience feeding cattle and working in a cow-calf and/or feeding operation.
• Strong mechanical skills.
• Experience operating feed wagons and bale processors.
• Calving experience.
• Dependability and consistent attendance.
• Ability to manage daily responsibilities independently without constant supervision.
• Reliability and safe conduct around coworkers and livestock.
• Ability to work as part of a team or as part of a working couple.

Nice To Haves

• Horse-riding ability; it is not required.
• Basic welding skills; welding to repair equipment and fences is a plus but not required.
• Candidates may bring one or two using horses if approved; horses provided by the ranch are preferred.

Responsibilities

• Operate a feed wagon daily during the feeding season, September through May.
• Feed cattle consistently and efficiently using established rations and schedules.
• Sort and work cattle safely in sorting pens and the working chute.
• Operate and maintain a bale processor.
• Conduct daily cattle checks while feeding, monitoring animal health, feed intake, and water systems.
• Handle cattle calmly and efficiently in pens, alleys, and pastures.
• Assist with calving, including monitoring cows, pulling calves when necessary, and pairing out.
• Operate ranch equipment, including tractors, loaders, feed trucks, processors, skid steers, and bale-handling equipment.
• Perform equipment maintenance, troubleshooting, repairs, greasing, fueling, and routine checks.
• Participate in summer haying operations, including swathing or mowing, raking, baling, and hauling.
• Build, repair, and maintain feed pens in preparation for increased feeding capacity.
• Assist with fencing, water systems, tank maintenance, and general ranch upkeep.
• Work independently, take initiative, and contribute as part of a team or working couple.

Benefits

• Off-site housing provided in a neighboring town approximately 15 minutes from the ranch.
• Ranch pickup provided for commuting to and from work.
• Ranch vehicle provided for ranch use.
• Beef available.
• Starting pay of $20 per hour, with increases based on experience and performance.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Education Level: No Education Listed