Station Manager

South Dakota State University (SDSU) is seeking a skilled and visionary leader to join our West River Research Farm team as a Station Manager. This position will oversee farm operations and ensure that our research projects thrive and contribute to the growth and development of agriculture in South Dakota. We are looking for a dynamic and hands-on individual who is committed to advancing the field of agriculture through innovative research, sustainable practices, and educational excellence. This position is located in Sturgis, South Dakota and is a 12-month, full-time, benefits-eligible position.The West River Research Farm near Sturgis, SD, is the home for western agronomy research and Extension. This new station continues to expand from traditional cropping trials to soil health and cover crop grazing work. Research projects are conducted primarily by faculty, staff and students in West River, but also includes collaborations from across the state and region.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.Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available for this position.KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:The Station Manager is responsible for daily oversight of research and outreach projects, equipment and facilities maintenance, repair and improvement(s), and upkeep of station grounds to ensure a high quality of appearance and functionality. This position will also assist in management and oversight of the West River beef herd during the summer months when the herd is maintained at the nearby Fort Meade property. This position will also provide supervision and guidance to students and other employees at the station as designated.BENEFITS:South Dakota State University 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. Relocation benefits are available per university’s guidelines. 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.MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:Bachelors degree in Agriculture/Biological Science or related field by position start date;At least 1 year experience in farming/field work or other agricultural experience;Experience operating farming or similar equipment;South Dakota restricted pesticide applicator license; andValid driver’s license or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire.PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:Over one year of experience with farming/field work;Experience working in agricultural research;Hands-on experience working with livestock;Experience working with budgets; andSupervisory experience.APPLICATION PROCESS: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 SDSU 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.South Dakota State University 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.