Extension Livestock Production and Stewardship Specialist

Extension Livestock Production and Stewardship Specialist I

Working Title Extension Livestock Production and Stewardship Specialist I

Posting Number NFE
02980P

Department SDSU-Agriculture Program-Ext

Physical Location of Position (City) Unspecified

South Dakota State University (SDSU) Extension is offering an exciting career opportunity as an Extension Livestock Production and Stewardship Specialist I. Possible locations are in Aberdeen
, Mitchell
, or Pierre
, dependent on the successful candidate’s preference. This position 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.

• Deliver impactful Extension programming informed by needs assessments.
• Develop and implement program materials using emerging technologies.
• Lead or contribute to learning communities that support ongoing education and outreach.
• Collaborate with colleagues and partners on emerging issues within the livestock and agriculture sectors.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with producers, industry partners, and other key stakeholders.
• Secure programmatic funding to support Extension initiatives and priorities.
• Conduct program evaluation to assess effectiveness and guide continuous improvement.
• Engage with the public by translating research into practical, accessible applications.
• Work under the direction of the Agriculture and Natural Resources Program Leader.
• Collaborate closely with the Animal Science Department, Competitive Livestock Field Specialists, State Specialists, and other departmental faculty.

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.

• Master’s Degree, completed by first day of employment in Animal Science or other closely related field.
• 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.
• Valid driver’s license, or ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire, and willingness to travel.

• 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…