Enhancing grassland ecosystems while sustaining private, profitable ranching
APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM
sandhills ranch
The New Sandhills Ranch Apprenticeship Program is a valuable nine-month paid opportunity designed for individuals interested in ranching, livestock production, and land management who want to take their knowledge and skills to the next level by strengthening their abilities and making meaningful contributions to operations.
The program offers an extended learning experience covering everything from spring calving and breeding to summer grazing, haying and feed production, and fall work. Participants will gain a understanding of seasonal cycles and the decisions involved in successfully managing a working ranch in the Nebraska Sandhills. Participants live and work alongside experienced ranchers who are passionate about mentorship and eager to share their experience, responsibility, and the rewards of stewarding both land and livestock.
Apprentices acquire valuable hands-on experience in all aspects of ranch operations. It is a guided learning experience that builds technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and confidence in decision-making, while promoting adaptability in a real-world ranch setting. With mentorship at its core, apprentices can learn the reasoning behind each task and how it connects with the broader goals of livestock production and ranch management.
This is a paid position that includes housing, partial board, and additional educational opportunities. Participants gain professional references and industry insights, preparing them further for careers in agriculture. They receive direct mentorship from respected ranch families, which provides both practical knowledge and professional connections that can open doors to future opportunities in ranching.
The Nebraska Sandhills feature one of the most unique landscapes in the world, blending wide-open grasslands, diverse wildlife, cattle, and a rich ranching history. Participants experience firsthand how production and stewardship work hand in hand to sustain both the land and the people who live there. Each host ranch is carefully selected for its commitment to mentorship, stewardship, and the values that make Sandhills ranching exceptional: caring for the land, cattle, and community.
Application & Questions
Apprenticeship applications will be accepted from November 1st through December 15th, 2025 for 2026.
Along with the online application, a resume and two letters of recommendation are requested.
Applicants may elect to have their application considered for the internship program.
Questions can be directed to KyLee Kime at kylee@sandhillstaskforce.org
or by calling/texting 308-340-2781.
DETAILS
hiring
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Applications will close on December 15, 2025, after which submissions will be reviewed.
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In early January, a shortlist of candidates will be invited for a 30-45 minute online interview.
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In mid-January, a second round of online interviews will take place for the finalists.
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In late January, selected candidates will have the opportunity for a one-day working visit, which will include a guided tour of the ranch and a review of housing options.
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The final decision will be made in late January, and position offers will be extended in early February.
We welcome applicants from all individuals and backgrounds, as we believe that the best teams are built from diverse experiences and stories.
LOCATION
apprenticeship
CONNEALY ANGUS
Registered Angus Operation
Whitman, NE
About the Ranch
Connealy Angus is a 3,500-head registered cow operation that provides the cattle industry with high-quality Angus bulls near Whitman, Nebraska. The ranch hosts two annual bull sales, one in November and one in March.
The Connealy family's legacy in Angus cattle dates back to the early 1960s, when Marty and Donnie Connealy established the original ranch. After completing his college education, their son Jerry returned to the ranch in 1980 with his wife, Sharon. Together, Jerry and Sharon have worked alongside their sons, Jed and Gabriel, to expand the operation to its current scale. The Connealy family’s primary goal is to provide customers with a high-quality Angus bull that will bring value back to their operation. To support this goal, they focus on achieving high pregnancy rates and minimizing both death and cull rates within their herd. Maintaining a strong emphasis on producing functional, well-bred animals is critical to ensuring their cattle meet the standards expected by both the family and their customers. Today, the family remains committed to its values and goals, ensuring its continued success for future generations.
With additional ranch locations across the region, Connealy Angus manages both cow-calf and backgrounding operations. The Whitman ranch serves as the cow-calf headquarters, and the Quarter Circle Bar (QCB) location, located north of Mullen, functions as the backgrounding and development facility. All calves are weaned into the lot and stay there, whether to be developed for the bull sale or breeding. As a registered Angus operation, the ranch maintains meticulous records on every animal, conducts DNA testing on all calves, and artificially inseminates all animals to achieve specific matings. QCB is also home to eleven pivots for feed production. The unique terrain and management style of each ranch location create variety in daily tasks, giving team members a well-rounded view of ranching in the Nebraska Sandhills.
The ranch operates with the mindset: “Anything worth doing is worth doing right.” The small things matter; whether they’re going to do a job or run the ranch, they’re going to do it to the very best of their abilities. “100% all in on the job.” Attention to detail, honesty, and a commitment to quality are the cornerstones. The Connealys believe that doing the job right, operating in the right ways, and being honest about all practices build trust with their customers and pride within their team.
Learn more about their operation at www.connealyangus.com.
The Mentors
Jed Connealy & Gabriel Connealy
Jed is a graduate of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, who returned to the family ranch 20 years ago. Today, he works alongside his father, Jerry, and his brother, Gabriel, in all aspects of the ranch’s management. Jed oversees the daily operations at the backgrounding lot and farming enterprises, and he works extensively with bull customers, assisting them in marketing their feeder and replacement cattle sired by Connealy bulls—helping them add value to their operations and strengthen their breeding programs.
Gabriel earned his undergraduate degree from Creighton University and then completed his master’s at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. He returned to the ranch 10 years ago and now works closely with Jerry on both the cow/calf and genetics segments of the operation. Gabriel plays a key role in developing and preparing bulls for upcoming sales, taking pride in helping customers select bulls that fit their operations well.
Jerry & Sharron Connealy
Jerry and Sharon Connealy are instrumental in keeping the ranch's administrative side running smoothly, from managing bookkeeping to maintaining cattle records. Jerry is also heavily involved in both the day-to-day cow/calf work and the ongoing genetic improvement of the herd, maintaining the high standards for which the Connealy program is known.
The Connealy family is deeply committed to producing high-quality cattle that help their customers remain profitable, thereby ensuring the ranch's ongoing success and supporting the dedicated team that operates it. They love to share their experience and entrust some responsibilities to individuals who are invested in the ranch’s goals and share a genuine passion for the cattle industry.
The Apprentice
Duties
Connealy Angus offers a diverse learning experience, with the opportunity to participate in nearly every aspect of ranch life. Activities can shift rapidly; one week may involve weaning calves, breeding cattle, and chopping corn silage, while the next may bring a slower period. The pace intensifies at certain times, such as during bull sale preparation, creating both fast-paced and slower rhythms throughout the year. The family values a collaborative environment where teaching and learning are shared responsibilities, and an open mindset and positive attitude are essential for maximizing the experience.
Responsibilities are broad and vary depending on the season. Tasks may include calving, synchronizing and breeding cattle, building and repairing fences, feeding and caring for livestock, haying, and operating a range of equipment. The ranch’s large scale and the variety of work mean that no two days are the same, providing team members with extensive exposure to the dynamics of a registered cattle operation.
While no specific experience is required, prior exposure to cattle or equipment can be helpful. A genuine interest in the cattle industry and the willingness to take on any task that needs to be done are a must. Self-motivation, a strong work ethic, and a readiness for long days are important, as is adaptability to the changing demands across multiple ranch sites. All ranch work is accomplished using ATVs rather than horses. ATV experience is beneficial.
Desired Skills
Hard-working and self-motivated
Quick learner
Good communicator
Flexible and positive attitude
CLEAN
The Details
Length of Experience: 3 months internship or 9 months apprenticeship
Internship Stipend: Connealy Angus will pay a monthly stipend estimated at $2,100.00/month.
Apprenticeship Stipend: Connealy Angus will pay a monthly minimum stipend of $2,100.00/month.
General Work Hours: Working hours are six days a week. The hours vary depending on the ranch and the production season, with some days starting early and ending late..
Housing and Meals: Provided housing is tailored to the individual, ranging from shared accommodations to private rooms.
Cell Phone Service: U.S. Cellular/Viaero/Verizon service is functional in most places.
Vehicles: A ranch vehicle available during work hours. A personal vehicle is recommended for days off and personal errands.
Additional Items to Bring: Any personal or special items that may be needed, including gear for all weather, and sun and rain protection.
Living at Connealy Angus: Mullen offers all the basic amenities, including dining and drinking establishments, a grocery store, and a gas station.
Educational Activities: Opportunity to attend select workshops and participate in various ranch tours will be available.
