Job Description

Posting Details
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Institution South Dakota State University
Working Title Microbiologist
Posting Number CSA02512P
Department SDSU-Animal Disease Res & Diagnostic Lab
Physical Location of Position (City) Brookings
Posting Text
South Dakota State University's Animal Disease Research and Diagnostic Laboratory (ADRDL) is seeking a motivated Microbiologist to join our Molecular Diagnostics section. This position plays a key role in supporting the laboratory's daily operations by performing technical work to identify and characterize pathogenic organisms. The successful candidate will contribute to diagnostic testing that protects animal and public health.
This position is located in .
Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available for this position.
Job Responsibilities:

• Perform routine PCR testing for the detection of PRRSV.
• Conduct testing, analysis, and reporting of bacterial and viral pathogens, including but not limited to Porcine Circovirus, Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae, Tritrichomonas foetus, Swine Influenza, Classical Swine Fever (CSF), African Swine Fever (ASF), and Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD).
• Follow established protocols for processing specimens and performing analytical tests to identify known or unknown pathogenic microorganisms.
• Carry out PCR testing for SARS-CoV-2.
• Maintain accurate pipette calibration records for the Molecular Diagnostics section to ensure compliance with AAVLD accreditation standards.
• Record daily test control data and standardize analysis for specific PCR tests.

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.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:
Knowledge of:

• Molecular diagnostic testing methods and techniques.
• Laboratory safety protocols and quality control procedures.
• PROIV and Sandi LIMS systems for data entry (preferred).

Skill & Ability to:

• Perform precise fine motor tasks required for molecular-based testing.
• Maintain strong attention to detail and accuracy in all testing processes.
• Balance client needs while ensuring high-quality diagnostic results.
• Work effectively as part of a collaborative laboratory team.

Required License: Valid driver's license or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire.
Application Procedures: 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.
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.
[SE5830; 40661]
Posting Date 10/22/2025
Closing Date 11/05/2025
Open Until Filled No
First Consideration Date
Advertised Salary $22.98 - $25.85/hour, depending upon qualifications, plus benefits
Duration of the Term 12 months
If Other, describe duration
Appointment Percent 100%
Work Hours
40 hours per week. Routinely Tuesday-Saturday. Some holidays, weekends and evenings expected.
Applicant must be open to a flex schedule to accommodate sample submissions.
Typical Hours Worked Per Week
Appointment Type Regular
Scope of Search External (includes Internal)
If internal, define scope of search
This position requires Weekends/Holidays, 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. The ADRDL is within the department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences and serves the state, region and nation as a go-to source for diagnostic information on everything from livestock to pets to food safety issues. Our researchers are hard at work solving the essential problems that hinder animal and human health and well-being.
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 additional information regarding this position or questions about the online application process, please contact Human Resources at 605-688-4128.

Skills Required