Program Assistant

South Dakota 4-H, a program of South Dakota State University (SDState) Extension is offering a career opportunity as a Program Assistant I for the State 4-H office. We are looking for an experienced professional to join our state 4-H team in this important administrative support role. As described in more detail below, the selected individual will support the work of dynamic professionals, synthesize communications, and provide operational continuity.

SDState is the state’s largest, most comprehensive university with over $94 million annual research expenditures, more than 200 academic programs and an enrollment of approximately 12,000 students. The university is part of a dynamic community for families, students, young professionals, and retirees, which offers an abundance of attractions and activities. SDSU Extension 4‑H is a community that provides experiences where young people learn by doing.

Kids complete hands‑on projects in areas like health, science, agriculture and citizenship, in a positive environment where they receive guidance from adult mentors and are encouraged to take on proactive leadership roles. Kids experience 4‑H through in‑school and after‑school programs, school and community clubs and 4‑H camps. We recognize that the youth of today are our future leaders and what they learn and experience in 4‑H will help them develop into contributing citizens who will give back to their communities in the future.

This position is located in Brookings.

Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available for this position.

Responsibilities include:

Managing day-to-day operations of the unit/office which includes communications with over 50 county 4‑H educators and program assistants, along with supporting field specialists and program managers. Developing, maintaining, and managing South Dakota 4‑H databases, providing support to county 4‑H educators and support staff on their use and developing and preparing relevant reports. Developing and managing the processes related to the various trips and events supported by South Dakota 4‑H.

Knowledge of:

• 5 years of exemplary administrative support experience.
• Project support including but not limited to editing/proofreading, typing/creative work, communications, and resource management.
• Adaptability and commitment to professional development.

• Effective oral and written communication skills with varied audiences.
• Time management, file management, proofreading/editing, and computer (MS Office Suite) skills.
• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism.

• Extension, 4‑H or university experience.

• Valid Drivers License

• 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.

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. SDState 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…