Extension Livestock Production and Stewardship Specialist I

South Dakota State University (SDSU) Extension is offering an exciting career opportunity as an Extension Livestock Production and StewardshipField Specialist I. Possible locations are in Aberdeen, Mitchell, or Pierre, dependent on the successful candidate’s preference. This is a 12 month, full-time, benefit-eligible, non-faculty exempt position.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.PURPOSE OF POSITION:To provide strong regional and statewide leadership in developing and delivering research-based programming in the Competitive Livestock capstone area. The duties will be split between coordinating the Beef Quality Assurance program in South Dakota and other livestock production and stewardship programming ideas around livestock handling, environmental management (heat, water, cold stress), precision technologies in herd management, and crop-livestock integration strategies. It is expected that this position will travel extensively to build strong relationships with producer groups, agribusinesses, and governmental agencies to identify ongoing and emerging needs of cattle industry.RESPONSIBILITIES:This position requires strong knowledge and ability to conduct impactful programming based on needs assessments; commitment to development of emerging technology materials for program development and delivery; commitment to developing or leading learning communities; ability to collaborate on emerging issues; and developing relationships with pertinent stakeholders. The Extension Field Specialist I also has a responsibility to secure programmatic funding, conduct evaluation, and successfully engage with the public by bridging research to practice. This position is accountable to the Agriculture and Natural Resources Program Leader and affiliated with the Animal Science Department and will work collaboratively with other Competitive Livestock Field Specialists, State Specialists, and other faculty members in their respective department.REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:Master’s Degree, completed by first day of employment in Animal Science or other closely related field by start date.Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available for this position.Experience with beef production systems.Knowledge of ruminant nutrition including coursework.Knowledge of the Beef Quality Assurance program.Ability to communicate effectively with a variety of audiences.Strong oral communication and interpersonal skills.Ability to work as a team member.Demonstrated use of technology in managing and/or delivering educational programs.Demonstrated ability or potential to plan, implement, and evaluate educational materials and direct effective programs.Effective written communication skills.Valid driver’s license, or ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire, and willingness to travel.PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:Ph.D., completed by first day of employment in Animal Science or other closely related field.Demonstrated ability or potential to solve management and nutrition challenges in beef production systems in the northern Great Plains.Constructed impactful programming based on local needs assessments.Demonstrated leadership in developing or leading learning communities.Demonstrated leadership and teamwork with stakeholders.Demonstrated collaboration in developing funding proposals to support new and/or enhanced programming.Experience in publishing extension materials and peer reviewed journals.BENEFITS:South Dakota State University offers a wide range of 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.APPLICATION PROCESS: This system guides you through the electronic application form and requires you to attach a cover letter, resume, and reference page, which includes the current mailing and email addresses and phone numbers of at least five 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 conditioned upon 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 university policy 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.