"Director of Ticket Operations"

Job Details

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 position is located in Brookings, South Dakota. This position is a 12 month, full-time, benefits-eligible position.

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.

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

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• 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.

BENEFITS:

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.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• 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.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• 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.

APPLICATION PROCESS:

This 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 (605) 688-4128 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 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.

Posting Date: 10/06/2025

Closing Date: 10/20/2025

Open Until Filled: No

Advertised Salary: The salary range for the Director of Ticket Operations is $45,735-$55,000 commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Duration of the Term: 12 months

Appointment Percent: 100

Work Hours: M-F, 8am-5pm with hours outside this schedule based on athletic events

Appointment Type: Regular

Faculty Status: No

Scope of Search: External (includes Internal)

This position requires: Weekends/Holidays

Department Description and Cultural Expectations: SDState is the state’s largest, most comprehensive university with over $94 million annual research expenditures, more than 200 academic programs and an enrollment of approximately 12,000 students. The university is part of a dynamic community for families, students, young professionals, and retirees, which offers an abundance of attractions and activities.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: 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@sdstate.edu. 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.

Contact Information: For questions on the position, contact search committee chair, Ryan Christy via email: Ryan.Christy@sdstate.edu.