Program Assistant II

Job : 34861

Agency: Department of Health - Division of Licensure & Accreditation

Location: Pierre, SD

Salary: $24.41-$28.72 hourly, depending on qualifications

Pay Grade: H

Closing Date: 2/26/26

This is a Full‑time position with the Department of Health – Division of Licensure & Accreditation. For more information on the Department of Health, please visit (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

The South Dakota Department of Health is seeking a highly organized and detail‑oriented Program Assistant II to serve as the lead team member in our central office in Pierre. This position plays a vital role in ensuring the operational efficiency and regulatory compliance of food service, lodging, and campground facilities. The Program Assistant II is responsible for coordinating licensing processes, managing fiscal activities, assigning facility inspections, and maintaining critical program databases.

Desk work in a state office building, cube environment. Very limited in‑state travel and periodic overnight stays on an annual basis may be required.

• Serve as the lead administrative team member for the central office operations.
• Oversee the initial and renewal licensing process for food, lodging, and campground facilities.
• Assign inspection responsibilities to field staff in accordance with regulatory timelines and geographic coverage.
• Provide fiscal support, including invoice processing, fee tracking, and budget reconciliation.
• Maintain and update regulatory databases; ensure data accuracy and timely reporting.
• Support the development and implementation of office procedures and workflows.
• Communicate professionally with internal staff, local agencies, and the public.
• Ensure compliance with applicable state statutes, regulations, and agency policies.
• Participate in program audits, data reviews, and process improvement initiatives.

High school diploma or equivalent required;
Associate or bachelor’s degree preferred;
At least three years of relevant administrative, regulatory, or program support experience;
Experience with public health, working with the public, budgeting/accounting, and enforcement of regulations is preferred;
Experience with licensing systems or regulatory databases is strongly preferred.

• General methods and processes in areas such as purchasing, budgeting, accounting, and other administrative activities pertinent to government operations.
• Computer systems and applications.
• State laws, rules, and regulations related to environmental health, food safety, and lodging/campground operations.

• Exercise sound judgment and make timely, well‑informed decisions.
• Conduct work in an honest, ethical, responsible, and committed manner.
• Work cooperatively with coworkers and treat them with respect to provide a positive working environment.
• Organize office data and other related information concisely and efficiently.
• Plan and project future operating needs in terms of fiscal needs and staffing changes.
• Provide office assistance, training, and information to Health Facility Surveyors and Department of Public Safety inspectors to carry out inspectional duties assigned by Department of Health.
• Engage with license holders, operators, and the general public on complaints, concerns, inquiries, and address these in an appropriate and timely manner.
• Provide administrative assistance with regulatory enforcement activities related to licensed and unlicensed food, lodging, and campground establishments to support change that will advance desired outcomes.
• Gather, analyze, and organize information to provide recommendations or input to promote and improve the Office of Health Protection.

• Work independently and collaboratively with internal and external partners.
• Communicate effectively and tactfully by listening, speaking, and writing when dealing with the public or government employees as required.

To be considered, please attach your resume. This position is eligible for Veterans’ Preference per ARSD 55:10:02:08.

NCRC:
If you possess a National Career Readiness Certificate, please submit the certificate with your application. For…