Research Coordinator

South Dakota State University (SDSU) is seeking a motivated and highly organized individual to play a key role in advancing livestock and rangeland research at the Cottonwood Field Station. This position is central to keeping research programs and projects running smoothly and efficiently — from coordinating project and personnel needs to supporting fieldwork, technology, and student involvement. Based at the West River Research and Extension facility in Rapid City, this role offers the opportunity to work closely with faculty, students, and station staff while contributing to impactful, on‑the‑ground research across western South Dakota.

This position is located in Rapid City
, South Dakota. This is a 12‑Month, full‑time, benefits‑eligible position.

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

• Coordinate, organize, and provide on‑the‑ground supervision and support of livestock and rangeland research projects at the Cottonwood Field Station.
• Provide operational leadership by managing logistics and ensuring research sites and facilities are fully prepared.
• Maintain accurate, up‑to‑date research protocols and ensure consistent adherence.
• Support and coordinate high‑quality data collection, data management, and data curation.
• Manage, maintain, and troubleshoot research equipment, technologies, and station systems.
• Provide proactive supervision, guidance, and mentorship to undergraduate and graduate students involved in research activities.
• Directly supervise research intern(s) assigned to Cottonwood.
• Collaborate closely with administration, faculty and students based at the West River Research and Extension facility.
• Travel regularly to the Cottonwood Field Station to oversee project implementation, coordinate with station management, and provide on‑site support.

SDState offers a wide range of excellent benefits including medical, dental, flexible benefits, retirement plans, compensation packages, paid holidays, and vacation leave. The retirement plan includes 6% matching. Employees receive 10 hours of annual leave each month, 9.34 hours of sick leave each month, and eleven paid holidays. Internal and state‑sponsored training and reduced tuition for state‑supported courses are also available.

Relocation benefits are available per university guidelines.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Master’s degree in Animal Science or closely related field completed within 6 months of start date.
• At least 1 year of related experience.
• Demonstrated experience in livestock research, production systems, and/or applied animal management.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Demonstrated experience writing scientific manuscripts.
• Demonstrated experience with precision livestock technologies.

SDState accepts applications through an online 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.” Attach a cover letter specifically addressing how you meet the qualifications, a 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.

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. SD State 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: (605) 688‑4128.

For questions on the position, contact search committee chair Amanda Blair at amanda.blair or 605‑394‑2236.