Engineer I or II

Pierre, SD | Agriculture and Natural Resources | Full-Time 40 Hours Weekly

32.85 - 34.49 US per hour

Posted 6 days ago | Apply before September 21, 2026

Job
Agency:
Department of Agriculture & Natural Resources

Location:

Pierre, SDSalary:$32.85 - $34.49/hr, depending on qualifications+ $2,500 Hiring & Retention Incentive
Pay Grade:

E2
Closing Date:09/21/2026

The mission of the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) is to protect and preserve agriculture, environment, and natural resources through effective regulatory services, natural resource conservation, and financial and technical assistance. DANR treats every person as a customer and maintains a high level of integrity through transparent government services and science-based decision making.

Are you looking for an organization that values a work-life balance? This position includes paid vacation leave, sick leave, and family leave, and staff work a 40-hour week. The state of South Dakota also offers a generous health benefits package which includes options for health, vision, and dental insurance in addition to one of the strongest retirement systems in the nation.

Do you desire a career that will provide you with professional growth opportunities? A successful applicant will be a member of the Waste Management Program in DANR. The dedicated staff of professionals in the Waste Management Program work hard to create and sustain a vision for South Dakota that is prosperous and diverse with clean air, clean water, and healthy families.

We are seeking individuals with a strong desire to learn and an interest in building a career.

As part of the Waste Management Program, you will play an important role in implementing waste management regulatory policies to protect human health and the environment. Our team is responsible for regulatory work to protect human health and the environment as it relates to municipal and commercial garbage, waste tires, yard waste, construction and demolition debris, contaminated soil, and medical waste.

The waste management program is responsible for actively implementing over 240 solid waste disposal permits, conducting inspections at disposal facilities, writing technical reports, reviewing plans and specifications for waste disposal facilities, and investigating complaints related to solid waste disposal.

Duties may include the following:

• Conducting solid waste field inspections;
• Preparing inspection reports, technical reports, and written correspondence;
• Analyzing ground water monitoring well data for municipal solid waste landfill;
• Recommending changes to landfill ground water monitoring plans;
• Reviewing applications and drafting permits for solid waste facilities;
• Organizing and maintaining environmental databases and analyzing environmental data;
• Providing technical information and assistance to colleagues, other state and federal agencies, and members of the public with customer service being a high priority.

• DANR offers a $2,500 hiring and retention incentive
  , with half paid by your second paycheck and the remainder after 15 months of service. (
  
  Note:
  
  Current state employees are not eligible.)
• The state of South Dakota offers a generous health benefits package which includes options for health, vision, and dental insurance in addition to one of the strongest retirement systems in the nation.
• South Dakota state government understands the importance of having a work/life balance and this position includes paid vacation leave, sick leave, and family leave. You will work a 40-hour week which leaves plenty of time to enjoy all that South Dakota has to offer.

For more information about the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, visit: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./

DANR values professional licensure. Preference will be given to candidates that have successfully passed the Engineer-In-Training/Fundamentals of Engineering exam or have the ability to obtain a license. As an entry-level engineering role, this position offers extensive training and mentorship from licensed Professional Engineers, along with opportunities for advancement in both technical and managerial tracks. DANR supports your pursuit of a Professional Engineering license and provides ongoing professional development throughout the year.

This is more than a job—it’s a chance to build a meaningful career in public service.

Desire to achieve and maintain MOLO certification. MOLO (Manager of Landfill Operations) is someone who is knowledgeable of the operation, permitting, maintenance, monitoring, and regulatory compliance of a landfill facility who is certified through the Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA).

A valid Drivers license is required.

Only applicants that possess a bachelor's or master's degree in environmental, geological, civil, or related engineering field will be considered. Communicating and coordinating with other engineers and…