Job Description

Posting Details
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Institution South Dakota State University
Working Title Program Assistant I
Posting Number CSA02510P
Department SDSU-West River Ag Center-Ext
Physical Location of Position (City) Rapid City
Posting Text
South Dakota State University (SDSU) Extension is seeking a dependable and detail-oriented Program Assistant I to support testing and certification services based at the West River Ag and Research Center in Rapid City, South Dakota. This position plays an important role in maintaining accurate processes, supporting applicator education, and assisting with Extension programming and office operations.
This position is located in .
Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available for this position.
Job Responsibilities:

• Oversee and administer on-site testing and certification services, including pesticide applicator testing and education, water and forage testing, and soil sample packaging and shipping, ensuring compliance and accuracy in all testing procedures.
• Support Extension programming by assisting Field Specialists and Extension faculty with a variety of program needs and activities.
• Provide general office support for West River Research and Extension operations.

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:

• Customer service principles and professional communication practices.
• Standard office procedures and recordkeeping practices.
• Compliance standards or testing procedures is preferred.

Skill & Ability to:

• Demonstrate strong oral communication skills and the ability to interact effectively with members of the public on behalf of SDSU and SDSU Extension.
• Demonstrate excellent attention to detail to ensure testing accuracy and compliance.
• Manage multiple tasks, prioritize competing deadlines, and maintain organization in a busy work environment.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently or as a member of a team.

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.
[EE9710; 11041]
Posting Date 10/21/2025
Closing Date 11/11/2025
Open Until Filled No
First Consideration Date
Advertised Salary $20.89 - $23.49/hour, depending upon qualifications, plus benefits
Duration of the Term 12 months
If Other, describe duration
Appointment Percent 100
Work Hours
8-5 M-F
Typical Hours Worked Per Week
Appointment Type Regular
Scope of Search External (includes Internal)
If internal, define scope of search
This position requires No Requirement
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. connects the university's research, education, and outreach efforts to communities across western South Dakota. The center supports local producers and residents through programming in agriculture, natural resources, and community development, while also serving as a hub for collaborative research, meetings, and Extension 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 additional information regarding this position or questions about the online application process, please contact Human Resources at 605-688-4128.

Skills Required