GIS Specialist

South Dakota State University (SDState) Planning Department is seeking a motivated GIS Specialist to support utility records, locates, and core GIS mapping functions. The ideal candidate will bring experience using GIS and database technologies to create meaningful analysis, advanced maps, and clear visual representations of campus infrastructure and facilities information.

This position is in Brookings, South Dakota.

Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States and sponsorship is not available for this position.

The GIS Specialist is responsible for coordinating utility locates, coordination for underground utility installations, excavation activities, and Facilities & Services maintenance staff. The position is responsible for capturing, documenting, and graphically representing campus utilities. The GIS Specialist may also be required to manage small utility projects, represent facility information through GIS graphic representation, and perform building condition documentation using thermal and high‑definition aerial imagery.

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% match, 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.

• ArcGIS and asset management software
• Mapping and cartographic principles
• Microsoft Office software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook)

• Gather, compile and present campus infrastructure data
• Develop and implement GIS projects
• Perform GIS analysis
• Demonstrate strong interpersonal skills

Required License:
Valid driver’s license.

SDState accepts applications through an on-line employment site.  (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..edu, search by the position title, view the job announcement, and click on “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, 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.

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 employees and students.

This position is subject to South Dakota State University’s Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy 4:14.

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:
Equal Opportunity Officer/Title IX Coordinator, Human Resources, Morrill Hall 100, SDSU, Brookings, SD 57007. Phone: .

For additional information regarding this position or questions about the online application process, please contact Human Resources at .

Posting Date: 02/18/2026

Closing Date: 03/11/2026