10 Major Nebraska Industries to Consider if You’re Working in or Moving to the State
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Moving to Nebraska offers a blend of career opportunities, affordability, and a warm Midwestern lifestyle. The state’s economy is bolstered by several key sectors, providing various options for prospective residents. Major Nebraska industries range from agriculture to technology, attracting workers with its growing job market. Whether you’re browsing homes for sale in Omaha or apartments in Lincoln, you’ll find plenty of reasons to call Nebraska home. Explore the industries that make Nebraska a fantastic place to live and work.
Nebraska at a glance: Home prices, income, and employment
Top employers in Nebraska
University of Nebraska: 16,000 employees
Walmart: 13,000 employees
Berkshire Hathaway: 12,000 employees
CHI Health: 10,300 employees
Offutt Air Force Base: 10,000 employees
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Deciding between renting or buying your next home?
Compare the costs of renting vs buying and find a lender to secure your mortgage.
10 major industries in Nebraska
1. Agriculture and farming
Major Employers: Union Grain Co. (St. Libory), Ag Processing Inc. (Omaha), and Aurora Cooperative (Aurora).
Agriculture is the backbone of Nebraska’s economy, employing over 50,000 people in farming, livestock management, and agricultural technology. Major crops include corn and soybeans, and the state ranks high in cattle production. Jobs in this industry range from hands-on farming to agricultural engineering and food processing. Nebraska’s agricultural legacy and innovative farming practices make it appealing to individuals seeking stability in this essential sector. Additionally, the state’s affordable rural housing makes it ideal for those working in agriculture.
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2. Manufacturing
Major Employers: Valmont Industries (Omaha), Kawasaki Motors Manufacturing Corp. (Lincoln), and Becton Dickinson (locations in Nebraska).
Manufacturing is a growing industry in Nebraska, producing everything from machinery to pharmaceuticals. This sector employs skilled workers in production, assembly, and quality assurance. Many companies offer competitive wages and opportunities for career advancement. Nebraska’s central location makes it a hub for manufacturing and distribution, drawing professionals from across the country.
Major Employers: Werner Enterprises (Omaha), Union Pacific (Omaha), Crete Carrier Corporation (Lincoln)
Transportation and logistics companies thrive in Nebraska, thanks to its central location. This industry employs drivers, logistics coordinators, and warehouse operators. Nebraska’s larger cities, where many of these companies are based, offer plenty of housing options for renters and buyers. Nebraska’s role as a shipping hub ensures steady demand for skilled workers. Homebuyers and renters also benefit from living near thriving transportation centers.
Major Employers: Mutual of Omaha (Omaha), Ameritas (Lincoln), Nelnet (Lincoln)
Nebraska’s finance and insurance sector offers careers in banking, underwriting, and investment management. Major companies attract professionals looking for competitive salaries and career advancement. Cities like Omaha and Lincoln feature a mix of urban convenience and community-focused living. This industry contributes to Nebraska’s strong economy, supporting its status as a great place to live and work.
Major Employers: Nebraska Medicine (Omaha), CHI Health (Omaha), Bryan Health (Lincoln)
Healthcare is a growing industry in Nebraska, offering roles in nursing, administration, and medical research. Major employers provide excellent training and benefits for workers. Living near healthcare hubs means easy access to quality medical services and community resources. The sector’s job stability makes it an attractive option for professionals.
Major Employers: University of Nebraska (Lincoln), Creighton University (Omaha), Bellevue University (Bellevue)
Nebraska’s education system provides roles for teachers, administrators, and support staff. Colleges and universities in the state are major employers, contributing to thriving academic communities. The University of Nebraska in Lincoln, with it’s 16,000 workers, is the state’s largest employer. For renters and buyers, these cities also offer varied housing options near top schools.
Major Employers: Hudl (Lincoln), Infogroup (office in Papillion), Buildertrend (Omaha)
The IT sector in Nebraska is growing, offering positions in software development, data analysis, and cybersecurity. Major tech employers attract talent with competitive salaries and innovative work environments. Nebraska’s central location also appeals to IT professionals seeking work-life balance. The tech industry’s expansion ensures a steady demand for skilled workers.
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8. Food processing
Major Employers: Conagra Brands (office in Omaha), Smithfield Foods (locations in Nebraska), Hormel Foods (locations in Nebraska)
Food processing plants in Nebraska supply products nationwide, offering roles in production, quality assurance, and management. Meat and poultry processing alone account for over $26 billion in revenue. These jobs often include training and room for advancement. Workers also enjoy the benefit of stable employment in this essential industry. Many communities in Nebraska thrive thanks to food processing jobs.
Major Employers: Nebraska Public Power District (Columbus), Tenaska (Omaha), OPPD (Omaha)
The energy sector in Nebraska is committed to renewable energy and efficient utilities. The Nebraska Public Power District and Omaha Public Power District offer jobs in electrical engineering, maintenance, and environmental compliance. Black Hills Energy supports Nebraska communities with natural gas services. Energy professionals are drawn to Nebraska for its commitment to sustainability.
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10. Retail trade
Major Employers: Cabela’s (Sidney), Scheels (locations in Nebraska), Hy-Vee (locations in Nebraska)
Retail trade provides diverse job opportunities in Nebraska’s urban and rural areas. Cabela’s, headquartered in Sidney, specializes in outdoor equipment and apparel. Buckle in Kearney offers roles in fashion retail and management. Retail jobs attract individuals seeking dynamic, customer-facing roles.
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