Assistant Manager

The South Dakota State University (SDSU) Agricultural Experiment Station is seeking a full-time Assistant Manager for the West River Research Farm. This position will provide support needed for successful research and outreach agronomy efforts. We are seeking a highly motivated individual that will contribute to research planning and implementation and also assist with daily operations and outreach activities at the farm. This position is located near Sturgis, South Dakota, and is a 12 month, full-time, benefits-eligible position. 

The West River Research Farm focuses on agronomic and forage research for conditions similar to those in western South Dakota. The farm is comprised of 111 acres for crop trials and includes a multi-purpose facility with a shop, laboratories, classroom, and office. Station land and facilities are used by SDSU faculty, students and staff for research projects and outreach activities. The agricultural research at the station is varied but ultimately aims to demonstrate the economic and environmental benefits of regenerative practices in a semi-arid climate. The farm hosts multiple field days and crop tours throughout the year to engage with producers and stakeholders.

South Dakota State University promotes access to and opportunities for all to receive the benefit of and participate in education, research, and service and is especially interested in candidates that can contribute to this land-grant mission of access.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

The Assistant Manager will report directly to the faculty supervisor for the farm. This position will be responsible for planned and ongoing research and outreach activities. This includes research plot implementation and maintenance at the farm as well as other locations across western SD. This position will oversee the laboratory and be responsible for associated laboratory analyses, equipment maintenance and repair, supplies and inventory. Other duties include collecting, storing and analyzing research data; coordinating farm trials with producers; writing and following research protocols and directives; training students, and assisting with research and outreach publications. 

SALARY RANGE:

Salary is commensurate with experience. 

BENEFITS:

South Dakota State University offers a wide range of excellent benefits including medical, dental, and flexible benefits, retirement plans, compensation packages, paid holidays, and vacation leave. Employees also have access to internal and state-sponsored training as well as reduced tuition for state-supported courses at all State of South Dakota academic institutions. We offer a generous retirement plan that includes 6% matching, 10 hours of annual leave each month, 9.34 hours of sick leave each month, and eleven paid holidays. Relocation benefits are available per university’s guidelines. 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelors degree in Agriculture, Agronomy, Soil Science or related field required by position start date;
• At least 1 year of experience in agriculture field work and/or research;
• A valid driver’s license or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire;
• SD pesticide applicator license or ability to obtain one; 
• Experience with farming operations and associated equipment;
• Working knowledge of research methods and understanding of the necessity of protocols and procedures to ensure research success;
• Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available for this position;
• Demonstrated organizational, time management, and communication skills; and
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and as a contributing team member.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• At least two years of experience in agriculture field work and/or research;
• Demonstrated experience with laboratory management and equipment; and
• Hands-on experience with livestock.

APPLICATION DEADLINE:

Position is open until filled with full consideration given to applications received by 04/07/2023.

APPLICATION PROCESS:

SDSU accepts applications through an on-line employment site. To apply, visit: https://yourfuture.sdbor.edu, search by the position title, view the job announcement, and click on “apply for this job.” This system will guide you through the electronic application form. This employment site will also require the attachment of a cover letter, which should specifically address how the candidate meets the qualifications as outlined in the advertisement, resume, and a reference page with the contact information for three professional references. Email applications will not be accepted. Please contact SDSU Human Resources at (605) 688-4128 if you require assistance with this process.

Any offer of employment is contingent on the university’s verification of credentials and other information required by law and/or university policies, including but not limited to, successful completion of a criminal background check.

South Dakota State University is a tobacco free environment. It is the policy of the University to maintain a drug-free environment and to thereby establish, promote, and maintain a safe and healthy working and learning environment for employees and students. This position is subject to South Dakota State University’s Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy 4:14. 

For questions on the position, contact search committee chair, Dr. Chris Graham, at 605-394-2236 or Christopher.graham@sdstate.edu.

South Dakota State University promotes access to and opportunities for all to receive the benefit of and participate in education, research, and service and is especially interested in candidates that can contribute to this land-grant access mission. SDSU is an affirmative action, equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to, and SDSU prohibits discrimination on, the basis of sex, race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, gender, gender identification, transgender, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other status that may become protected under law against discrimination in the offering of all educational programs and employment opportunities. Arrangements for accommodations required by disabilities can be made by emailing HR@sdstate.edu. Individuals with concerns regarding discrimination should contact: Equal Opportunity Officer/Title IX Coordinator, Human Resources, Morrill Hall 100, SDSU, Brookings, SD 57007, 605-688-4128.