What are the responsibilities and job description for the Pilot Plant Research Technican position at South Dakota Board of Regents?
Working Title
Pilot Plant Research Technican
Posting Number
NFE02599P
Department
SDSU-Dairy & Food Science
Physical Location of Position (City)
Brookings
Posting Text
South Dakota State University (SDSU) is offering an exciting career opportunity as a Pilot Plant Research Technician in the Dairy and Food Science Department. This pivotal role will support processing and research activities at the Davis Dairy Plant, collaborating with students, researchers, and industry professionals to drive impactful research initiatives. Join our team and play a key role in advancing dairy and food science while gaining valuable hands-on experience in a cutting-edge facility! This position is located in Brookings, South Dakota. This position is a 12-month, full-time, benefits-eligible position.
The Dairy Food and Science program has 9 faculty members, approximately 10 staff members, and 30 graduate research assistants. The faculty and staff within the department bring a wealth of experience, recognized expertise, and a strong dedication to teaching, research, and service.
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:
- Operate and maintain research equipment at the Davis Dairy Plant.
- Manage research supplies, including sampling devices, cleaning supplies, and inventory.
- Ensure proper execution of research projects within the plant’s schedule and operations.
- Collaborate with Dairy Plant management, students, researchers, and industry representatives.
- Oversee and coordinate the work of hourly student employees to achieve project objectives.
- Support processing and research activities to maintain equipment functionality and meet research goals.
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:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Dairy Manufacturing, Food Science, Microbiology, Operations Management, Agricultural Engineering, or a closely related field by start date;
- At least one year of experience in operation of common dairy and food processing equipment, including pasteurizers, membrane filtration systems, evaporators, cheesemaking equipment, and spray dryers;
- Demonstrates a level of mechanical aptitude that will allow for proper operation and troubleshooting of equipment;
- Effective written communication skills;
- Effective verbal communication and interpersonal skills; and
- Valid driver’s license or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire.
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
- Research experience in food and dairy products processing.
- Experience in the production of safe and quality food products.
- Inventory maintenance 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.
Posting Date
01/28/2025
Closing Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
First Consideration Date
02/18/2025
Advertised Salary
The salary range for this position is $38,010-$49,350.
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
Valid Drivers License
If other, please indicate
Department Description and Cultural Expectations
South Dakota State University is the state’s largest, most comprehensive university with over $60 million annual research expenditures, more than 200 academic programs and an enrollment of approximately 12,000 students. We offer a rich academic experience in an environment of inclusions and access. The university is part of a dynamic community 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 affirmative action, equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to, and SDSU prohibits discrimination on, the basis of, sex, race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, religion, age, disability, genetic information, veteran’s status, or any other status that may become protected in the offering of all educational programs and employment. Arrangements for accommodations required by disabilities can be made by emailing HR@sdstate.edu. 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, Dr. Prafulla Salunke at prafulla.salunke@sdstate.edu.
Salary : $60
