Job Description

Posting Details
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Institution South Dakota State University
Working Title Extension Dairy Field Specialist I
Posting Number NFE02899P
Department SDSU-Agriculture Program-Ext
Physical Location of Position (City) Watertown
Posting Text
Make a difference in South Dakota's dairy industry. South Dakota State University (SDSU) Extension is seeking a forward-thinking professional to lead innovative outreach and research-based education that supports dairy producers, industry partners, and rural communities across the state. This position is located in and is a 12-month, full-time, benefits-eligible position.
As the outreach arm of our state's land grant, South Dakota State University, is able to provide farmers, ranchers, agri-business people, communities, families and youth with the research-based information they need to succeed. SDSU Extension meets the changing needs of South Dakotans with progressive outreach services, ranging from one-on-one interaction and forums to 24/7 online access through our website, extension.sdstate.edu. SDSU Extension organizes program outreach across 4 program areas: Agriculture and Natural Resources, Food & Families, Community Vitality and 4-H Youth Development.
Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available for this position.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead the development and delivery of research-based Extension programs that strengthen South Dakota's dairy industry.
• Collaborate with field and state specialists, researchers, and industry partners to address emerging needs and opportunities.
• Build relationships with producers, stakeholders, and community leaders across local, state, and regional levels.
• Secure grants and partnerships to support and expand programming efforts.
• Translate research into practical solutions and share program impacts with the public.
• Use technology and innovative outreach to engage a variety of audiences.

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.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Master's degree obtained by first day of employment with at least one degree in Agriculture with an emphasis in dairy cattle production, occupational Health, or closely related field;
• Experience with dairy cattle production systems, animal husbandry, and nutrition; and
• Valid driver's license or ability to obtain one within 30 days.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Fluency in Spanish.
• Previous Extension experience.
• Demonstrated experience of conducting impact programming based on local needs assessment.
• Previous leadership in developing or leading learning communities.
• Experience in leadership and teamwork with stakeholders.
• Demonstrated collaboration in developing funding proposals to support new and/or enhanced programming.

APPLICATION PROCESS:
SDState accepts applications through an on-line employment site. To apply, visit: , 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 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.
Posting Date 11/07/2025
Closing Date 12/01/2025
Open Until Filled No
First Consideration Date
Advertised Salary The salary range for the Extension Dairy Field Specialist I is $55,339- $66,407 depending on experience.
Duration of the Term 12 months
If Other, describe duration
Appointment Percent 100
Work Hours
Typical Hours Worked Per Week
Appointment Type Regular
Faculty Status No
Scope of Search External (includes Internal)
If internal, define scope of search
This position requires Travel, Valid Drivers License
If other, please indicate
Department Description and Cultural Expectations
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 for families, students, young professionals, and retirees, which offers an abundance of attractions and activities.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
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 equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to, and SDSU prohibits unlawful discrimination of all legally protected classes in the offering of all educational programs and employment. Arrangements for accommodations required by disabilities can be made by emailing . Individuals with concerns regarding discrimination should contact: Equal Opportunity Officer/Title IX Coordinator, Human Resources, Morrill Hall 100, SDSU, Brookings, SD 57007. Phone: (605) 688-4128.
Contact Information
For questions on the position, contact search committee chair, Sara Bauder at sara.bauder@sdstate.edu or 605-995-7378

Skills Required