- Strong, proven background in feedlot operations with at least several years of hands-on cattle experience.
- Demonstrated ability to manage and lead people, preferably with prior experience supervising a cowboy crew.
- Excellent knowledge of animal health, cattle behavior, and doctoring practices; able to spot, diagnose, and treat livestock effectively.
- Strong horsemanship and cattle-handling skills; must be confident in both riding and roping.
- Effective communicator with strong organizational and problem-solving skills.
- Dependable, motivated, and capable of making sound decisions under pressure.
- A real “stand-up” person with integrity, work ethic, and leadership presence.

Hansen Agri-PLACEMENT is assisting a large, progressive commercial feedyard in Nebraska in their search for an experienced Head Cowboy to lead the day-to-day cattle operations. This role requires a highly skilled and hands-on individual with excellent people management abilities, strong herd health knowledge, and the leadership qualities to oversee a team of cowboys in a fast-paced, professional feedyard environment.

Position Overview:
The Head Cowboy will be responsible for directing all aspects of cattle care and movement within the feedyard. This includes supervising and mentoring a crew of 7–10 full-time cowboys, ensuring proper animal health protocols are followed, and coordinating cattle receiving, processing, shipping, and daily pen activities. The successful candidate must bring a strong cattle background, a proven feedlot skill set, and the ability to make timely, accurate animal health decisions while working closely with veterinarians and feedyard management.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide daily leadership and supervision to the cowboy crew; recruit, train, and coach employees to ensure a skilled, safety-conscious team.

• Oversee all aspects of herd health: spotting and diagnosing sick cattle, administering appropriate treatment, and ensuring protocols are followed accurately and consistently.

• Coordinate cattle movement, processing, shipping, and receiving to maintain smooth operations and timely handling.

• Communicate effectively with feedyard management and other department heads (feed, maintenance, office) to align on priorities and maximize overall yard efficiency.

• Monitor cattle behavior, performance, and condition daily, identifying potential health or handling issues before they become major problems.

• Maintain accurate health and treatment records in compliance with feedyard protocols.

• Actively promote a positive, team-oriented work culture; solve problems constructively and lead by example.

Why This Role?
This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced cowboy seeking a leadership position in a large commercial operation. The employer values professionalism, teamwork, and a positive attitude, and is looking for someone who can bring both cattle expertise and people leadership to their feedyard crew.