Research Coordinator

Position Overview

South Dakota State University (SDSU) is seeking a motivated and highly organized individual to play a key role in advancing livestock and rangeland research at the Cottonwood Field Station. This position is central to keeping research programs and projects running smoothly and efficiently—from coordinating project and personnel needs to supporting fieldwork, technology, and student involvement. Based at the West River Research and Extension facility in Rapid City, this role offers the opportunity to work closely with faculty, students, and station staff while contributing to impactful, on‑the‑ground research across western South Dakota.

Location:

Rapid City, South Dakota.

Position type: 12‑month, full‑time, benefits‑eligible.

Status:
Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available.

• Coordinate, organize, and provide on‑the‑ground supervision and support of livestock and rangeland research projects at the Cottonwood Field Station.
• Provide operational leadership by managing logistics and ensuring research sites and facilities are fully prepared.
• Maintain accurate, up‑to‑date research protocols and ensure consistent adherence.
• Support and coordinate high‑quality data collection, data management, and data curation.
• Manage, maintain, and troubleshoot research equipment, technologies, and station systems.
• Provide proactive supervision, guidance, and mentorship to undergraduate and graduate students involved in research activities.
• Directly supervise research intern(s) assigned to Cottonwood.
• Collaborate closely with administration, faculty and students based at the West River Research and Extension facility.
• Travel regularly to the Cottonwood Field Station to oversee project implementation, coordinate with station management, and provide on‑site support.

SDState offers a wide range of excellent benefits, including medical, dental, and flexible benefits; retirement plans with 6% matching; 10 hours of annual leave each month, 9.34 hours of sick leave each month, and eleven paid holidays; internal and state‑sponsored training; reduced tuition for state‑supported courses at all South Dakota academic institutions; and relocation benefits per university guidelines.

• Master’s degree in Animal Science or closely related field completed within 6 months of start date.
• At least 1 year of related experience.
• Demonstrated experience in livestock research, production systems, and/or applied animal management.

• Demonstrated experience writing scientific manuscripts.
• Demonstrated experience with precision livestock technologies.

SDState accepts applications through an online employment site.  
(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..edu
, search by the position title, view the job announcement, and click “apply for this job.” The system will guide you through the electronic application form. This employment site will also require the attachment of a cover letter, resume, and a reference page with contact information for three professional references. Email applications will not be accepted. Please contact SDState Human Resources at (605) 688‑4128 if you require assistance with this process.

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 HR
. Individuals with concerns regarding discrimination should contact the Equal Opportunity Officer/Title IX Coordinator, Human Resources, Morrill Hall 100, SDSU, Brookings, SD 57007. Phone: (605) 688‑4128.

For questions on the position, contact search committee chair Amanda Blair at amanda.blair or 605‑394‑2236.