"Precision Agriculture Machinery Research Coordinator"

Job Details

Posting Details

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Institution
South Dakota State University

Working Title
Precision Agriculture Machinery Research Coordinator

Posting Number
NFE02837P

Department
SDSU-Ag & Biosystems Engineering

Physical Location of Position (City)
Brookings

Posting Text

Play a vital role in supporting innovation, safety, and hands-on learning in precision agriculture. The Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering at South Dakota State University is seeking a motivated and knowledgeable individual to support the setup and daily operations of teaching and research laboratories, with a strong focus on machinery, equipment, fabrication, and safety. This position will also provide key safety oversight for all departmental research and shop activities and contribute to the successful launch of lab spaces in the new Raven Precision Agriculture Center. This position is located in Brookings, South Dakota and is a 12-month, full-time, benefits-eligible position.

The Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering combines engineering and biological sciences to develop sustainable solutions for agriculture, natural resources, and the environment. Key focus areas include water resources, machine systems, bioenergy, precision agriculture, and environmental quality. Through research, education, and outreach, the department advances innovative technologies, enhances agricultural productivity, and promotes ecological balance—preparing students and professionals to address the complex challenges of global agriculture and resource management.

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

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Support research projects by assisting with protocol development, experimental design, implementation, and accurate data collection.
• Maintain and operate complex electronic hardware and research instrumentation for both laboratory and field-based work.
• Oversee research sites to ensure equipment and instrumentation are fully operational, reliable, and well maintained.
• Manage the Raven Precision Agriculture Center shop, ensuring a safe, organized, and professional work environment for faculty, staff, and students.
• Develop and enforce safety policies and programs for teaching and research activities; provide safety training and ensure compliance with current regulations.
• Maintain shop equipment in proper working condition and ensure the space is clean and presentable for visitors and tours.
• Provide training and support to undergraduate and graduate students on engineering principles, research protocol, equipment use, instrumentation, and data acquisition.

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 in agriculture or engineering; and
• Valid driver’s license or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Master’s degree; and
• Certification in ROV DriverCoach Instructor by the Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association (ROHVA) of the Special Vehicle Institute of America (SVIA).

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.

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
09/02/2025

Closing Date
09/12/2025

Open Until Filled
No

Advertised Salary
$60,980 - $79,274 depending on experience.

Duration of the Term
12 months

Appointment Percent
100

Appointment Type
Regular

Faculty Status
No

Scope of Search
External (includes Internal)

This position requires
Travel, Valid Drivers License