Equestrian Barn Manager

Job Details

Posting Details

Institution
South Dakota State University

Working Title
Equestrian Barn Manager

Posting Number
NFE03013P

Department
SDSU-Intercollegiate Athletics

Physical Location of Position (City)
Brookings

Posting Text

South Dakota State University (SDState) is seeking a skilled, hands-on Equestrian Barn Manager to lead the daily operations of its equestrian program. This role keeps the barn running smoothly and ensures the highest standards of horse care and facility management.

This position is a 12-month, full-time, benefits-eligible position located in Brookings, South Dakota. Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available for this position.
SDState is an NCAA Division I institution and competes in the Summit League for all sports except football (Missouri Valley Football Conference), wrestling (Big XII Conference), and women’s equestrian (National Collegiate Equestrian Association).

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
The Equestrian Barn Manager will oversee the facilities, operations, and student workers within the South Dakota State University equestrian program.

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:

• Two-year technical college degree with more than three years of directly related experience OR a bachelor’s degree (preference in an equine-related field);
• Experience with Equine Management/Facilities;
• Basic horse handling skills;
• Experience with daily care of horses;
• General knowledge of current industry standards for horse health care;
• Effective verbal and written communication skills;
• Ability to work independently and serve in the role of a supervisor/decision maker;
• Budget Experience
• Valid driver’s license, or ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in equine studies or related field;
• Facility and/or operations management experience;
• Proof of improving efficiencies in operations;
• Ability to repair and maintain buildings, equipment and grounds;
• Knowledge of and ability to operate equipment (i.e. truck, trailer, tractors);

APPLICATION PROCESS:
SDState accepts applications through an on-line employment site. To apply, visit: https://yourfuture.sdbor.edu/, search by the position title, view the job announcement, and click on “apply for this job.” 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, curriculum vitae, 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
03/26/2026

Closing Date
04/10/2026

Open Until Filled
No

Advertised Salary
The starting salary for the Equestrian Barn Manager is $45,735 annually and will be commensurate upon education and experience.

Duration of the Term
12 months

Appointment Percent
100

Work Hours
M-F, 8am-5pm with weekends as necessary and work outside hours stated based on the needs of the program

Appointment Type
Regular

This position requires
Weekends/Holidays