The Agriculture Program with South Dakota State University Extension is seeking a Precision Livestock Extension Field Specialist I to provide strong statewide leadership, within their capstone area of specialization, in delivering research-based information, resources, programming, and support via learning communities while building relationships with stakeholder groups to support the vision of SDSU Extension. This position is located in Rapid City. This position is a 12-month, full-time, benefits-eligible position.
SDState is the state’s largest, most comprehensive university with over $94 million annual research expenditures, more than 200 academic programs and an enrollment of approximately 12,000 students. The university is part of a dynamic community for families, students, young professionals, and retirees, which offers an abundance of attractions and activities. South Dakota State University (SDSU) Extension is a key outreach arm of the university, delivering research-based information and educational programs that address the needs of South Dakotans. Working in partnership with academic departments and the Agricultural Experiment Station, SDSU Extension focuses its efforts in four core areas: Agriculture and Natural Resources, Food & Families, Community Vitality, and 4-H Youth Development. This position is part of the Agriculture and Natural Resources program area and will collaborate closely with the Department of Agronomy, Horticulture and Plant Science, a varied academic unit with over 40 faculty specializing in areas such as agronomy, plant breeding, precision agriculture, soil science, and more. The department supports leading research initiatives, strong undergraduate and graduate programs, and a robust Extension network, creating rich opportunities for cross-disciplinary work and statewide impact.
Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available for this position.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Ability to identify and monitor variables and issues important to learning community vitality.
- Participates in externally funded projects led by Extension State Specialists or Field Specialist colleagues within and/or across capstone areas.
- Uses cutting-edge research-based information and data in programming and collaborates on state emerging issues.
- Develop relationships with all pertinent stakeholders and/or groups and influence decision making of stakeholder groups on state-wide emerging issues. Provides specialized subject matter support.
- Utilizes and adapts technology in program development and delivery.
- Recruit and utilize volunteers to enhance educational outreach. Identify potential industry leaders to help accomplish learning community and industry goals.
SALARY RANGE:
The salary range for the Precision Livestock Extension Field Specialist I is $60,000 to $65,000 depending on experience.
BENEFITS:
SDState offers a wide range of excellent benefits including medical, dental, and flexible benefits, retirement plans, compensation packages, paid holidays, and vacation leave. 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. 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. Relocation benefits are available per university’s guidelines.
QUALIFICATIONS
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
- M.S. degree in animal science or closely related field by start date.
- Demonstrated experience working with precision technology for livestock systems.
- Ability to communicate effectively with varied audiences.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills.
- Demonstrated organizational and time management skills.
- Strong interpersonal skills.
- Experience with computer and information technologies.
- Valid driver’s license or ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire, and willingness to travel.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Experience with ruminant livestock systems.
- Experience in and/or knowledge of data security.
- The ability to generate grants and other outside funds.
- Experience translating precision technologies and/or precision data to livestock producers.
APPLICATION DEADLINE:
Position closes 9/15/2026.
APPLICATION PROCESS:
SDState 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, curriculum vitae, and a reference page with the contact information for three professional references. Email applications will not be accepted. Please contact SDState 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.
SDState 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. Jamie Brennan [email protected] or 605-394-2236.
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
[email protected]. 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.
