Natural Resources Job Board

South Dakota State University (SDSU) Extension is seeking a knowledgeable and collaborative professional to provide regional and statewide leadership in the Competitive Crops capstone area. This position supports grain crop producers across South Dakota by developing and delivering research-based programming and resources that address production system needs. The successful candidate will work closely with producer groups, agribusinesses, and government agencies to identify emerging issues and strengthen the impact of SDSU Extension. This role also offers rich opportunities for collaboration with faculty in the Department of Agronomy, Horticulture and Plant Science and with research and extension centers across the state. This position will be located in one of our regional extension centers located in either Aberdeen, Lemmon, Mitchell, Pierre, Watertown, or Winner, South Dakota and is a 12-month, full-time, benefits-eligible position.   

South Dakota State University (SDSU) Extension is a key outreach arm of the university, delivering research-based information and educational programs that address the needs of South Dakotans. Working in partnership with academic departments and the Agricultural Experiment Station, SDSU Extension focuses its efforts in four core areas: Agriculture and Natural Resources, Food & Families, Community Vitality, and 4-H Youth Development. This position is part of the Agriculture and Natural Resources program area and will collaborate closely with the Department of Agronomy, Horticulture and Plant Science, a diverse academic unit with over 40 faculty specializing in areas such as agronomy, plant breeding, precision agriculture, soil science, and more. The department supports leading research initiatives, strong undergraduate and graduate programs, and a robust Extension network, creating rich opportunities for cross-disciplinary work and statewide impact. Must be authorized to work in the U.S.  Sponsorship is not available for this position.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Identify and monitor variables and issues important to a learning community vitality.Participates in externally funded projects led by Extension State Specialists or Field Specialist colleagues within and/or across capstone areas.Use cutting-edge research-based information and data in programming and collaborates on state emerging issues.Develop relationships with all pertinent stakeholders and/or groups on state-wide emerging issues. Provides subject matter support.Utilize and adapt technology in program development and delivery (SDSU Extension).Recruit and utilize volunteers to enhance educational outreach. Identify potential industry leaders to help accomplish learning community and industry goals.

BENEFITS:SDState 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. 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. 
 
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
M.S. degree in Agronomy, Weed Science, Plant Science, or other closely related field completed by first day of employment.
Must be authorized to work in the United States. Sponsorship is not available for this position.
Knowledge of Northern Plains cropping systems, supporting industries, and grower groups.
Willingness to collaborate and conduct applied research at SDSU Research Stations and on-farm sites with individual growers.
Demonstrated ability to conduct outreach needs assessments.
Demonstrated ability to evaluate educational materials.
Demonstrated ability to plan and implement effective outreach events.
Certified Crop Advisor certification or ability to obtain within two years of employment.
Demonstrated ability to work as a team member.
Effective written communication skills.Effective verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
Effective organizational and time management 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 Agronomy, Weed Science, Plant Science, or other closely related field. 
Previous Extension experience. 
Potential ability to identify and develop funding proposals to support new and/or enhanced programming within and/or across capstone areas as PI or Co-PI. Experience in publishing extension materials and/or peer reviewed journals.