"Extension Dairy Field Specialist I"

Posting Details

Institution: South Dakota State University

Working Title: Extension Dairy Field Specialist I

Posting Number: NFE02929P

Department: SDSU-Agriculture Program-Ext

Physical Location of Position (City): Watertown, South Dakota

Make a difference in South Dakota’s dairy industry. South Dakota State University (SDSU Extension) is seeking a forward-thinking professional to lead innovative outreach and research-based education that supports dairy producers, industry partners, and rural communities across the state. This position is located in Watertown, South Dakota and is a 12-month, full-time, benefits-eligible position.

As the outreach arm of our state’s land grant, South Dakota State University, SDSU Extension is able to provide farmers, ranchers, agri-business people, communities, families and youth with the research-based information they need to succeed. SDSU Extension meets the changing needs of South Dakotans with progressive outreach services, ranging from one-on-one interaction and forums to 24/7 online access through our website, extension.sdstate.edu. SDSU Extension organizes program outreach across 4 program areas: Agriculture and Natural Resources, Food & Families, Community Vitality and 4-H Youth Development.

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

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead the development and delivery of research-based Extension programs that strengthen South Dakota’s dairy industry.
• Collaborate with field and state specialists, researchers, and industry partners to address emerging needs and opportunities.
• Build relationships with producers, stakeholders, and community leaders across local, state, and regional levels.
• Secure grants and partnerships to support and expand programming efforts.
• Translate research into practical solutions and share program impacts with the public.
• Use technology and innovative outreach to engage a variety of audiences.

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:

• Master’s degree obtained by first day of employment with at least one degree in Agriculture with an emphasis in dairy cattle production, occupational Health, or closely related field;
• Experience with dairy cattle production systems, animal husbandry, and nutrition; and
• Valid driver’s license or ability to obtain one within 30 days.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Fluency in Spanish.
• Previous Extension experience.
• Demonstrated experience of conducting impact programming based on local needs assessment.
• Previous leadership in developing or leading learning communities.
• Experience in leadership and teamwork with stakeholders.
• Demonstrated collaboration in developing funding proposals to support new and/or enhanced programming.

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, 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.

Posting Date: 12/15/2025

Closing Date: 01/23/2026

Open Until Filled: No

Advertised Salary: The salary range for the Extension Dairy Field Specialist I is $55,339- $66,407 depending on experience.

Duration of the Term: 12 months

Appointment Percent: 100

Appointment Type: Regular

Faculty Status: No

This position requires: Travel, Valid Drivers License

Contact Information: For questions on the position contact Alexander (Sandy) Smart at alexander.smart@sdstate.edu or 605-688-4940.