Director of Ticket Operations

South Dakota State University Athletics is seeking a Director of Ticket Operations to lead the day-to-day functions of the ticket office. This role oversees game day ticketing operations and ensures the successful administration of all aspects of the Athletics Ticket Office. We are looking for a detail‑oriented professional with a commitment to exceptional customer service to support the Jackrabbits’ athletics program.

This is a 12‑month, full‑time, benefits‑eligible position located in Brookings, South Dakota
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At South Dakota State University, Jackrabbit Athletics is built on tradition, excellence, and passion. Competing at the NCAA Division I level, our 19 sports programs push boundaries in The Summit League, the Missouri Valley Football Conference, the Big XII Conference (wrestling), and the National Collegiate Equestrian Association. Behind the competition is a dedicated team of professionals committed to delivering an unforgettable experience for student‑athletes, fans, and the community.

Learn more about Jackrabbit Athletics on the Jackrabbit Athletics website
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Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available for this position.

• Direct all aspects of ticket operations, including event creation, allocations, mobile/digital ticketing, and game‑day management.
• Oversee financial processes such as sales tracking, reporting, deposits, and reconciliation.
• Implement strategies to enhance customer experience, retention, and group ticket fulfillment while ensuring outstanding service.
• Monitor industry trends and recommend pricing and operational improvements to support growth.
• Collaborate closely with ticket sales, development, marketing, and sponsorship teams on renewals, promotions, and messaging.

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.

• Bachelor’s degree completed by date of application;
• At least one year of collegiate athletics, ticket sales, and/or operational knowledge;
• General knowledge of and understanding of sales and marketing concepts;
• Ability to work various hours including nights and weekends;
• Portray excellent communication skills (written, verbal and interpersonal); and
• Ability to be a self‑starter and work independently.

• Previous work experience in a sales environment, ticket office, university athletic department, or sports organization;
• Experience at Division I level in athletic setting;
• Knowledge of ticket software;
• Experience in ticket sales analytics;
• Proven history of working game days for a collegiate or professional sports organization; and
• Experience providing direction to others.

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 “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. Please contact SDState Human Resources at  if you require assistance with this process.

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…