Research Specialist

South Dakota State University is seeking to hire a part-time Research Specialist who will join our search dynamic team by helping power the discoveries that strengthen nursing, support communities, and inform the next generation of care.

This part-time position allows at least 10 hours of work per week and is located in Brookings, SD. Shape the future of healthcare professionals by joining South Dakota State University’s College of Nursing as a research specialist. We pride ourselves on our commitment to excellence in education, clinical practice, and research. Our state-of-the-art facilities and collaborative environment provide the ideal setting for innovative teaching and impactful research. Our research priorities are improvement of health outcomes, promoting health for rural and underserved populations, and transforming nursing and interprofessional health education.

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

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: The Research Specialist will lead funded evaluation and assessment projects within the Office of Nursing Research including oversight of project activities and procedures; conducting data analysis; authoring project reports and other contract deliverables; presenting of findings at local and/or regional events; assist with development of contract proposals and amendments, budgets, and project procedures.

BENEFITS: Annual Leave and Sick Leave are accrued on a prorated basis.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Health or a closely related field by date of application.
• At least three years of experience in program evaluation relating to public health, chronic disease management principles, and/or other social sciences.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Valid driver’s license, or ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire, and willingness to travel.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Master’s Degree with at least 2 years of experience in program evaluation.
• Proficiency with computer software, data management, and data analysis.
• Experience in independently designing and implementing project procedures.
• Ability to collaborate between departments, agencies, and with other project staff to achieve project completion.

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: 05/04/2026

Closing Date: 05/11/2026

Advertised Salary: The starting rate of pay for this position is $26.18/hour commensurate with qualifications and experience

Appointment Percent: 25

Work Hours: At least 10 hours per week M-F

Appointment Type: Regular

Faculty Status: No

This position requires: Travel, Valid Drivers License