South Dakota State University
Extension Food Processing Field Specialist I
South Dakota State University, Brookings, South Dakota, us, 57007
Extension Food Processing Field Specialist I
South Dakota State University (SDSU) is seeking a knowledgeable and collaborative professional to support dairy processors through hands‑on training, outreach, and technical assistance that strengthen food safety and processing practices statewide. This position is located in Brookings, SD and is a 12‑month, full‑time, benefits‑eligible position.
Base pay range: $55,339 – $66,407 per year.
Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available.
Key Responsibilities
Create and deliver innovative educational programs using technology and effective teaching methods.
Engage under‑served and under‑represented audiences across South Dakota.
Build and sustain relationships with community groups, volunteers, and partners at local, state, tribal, and federal levels.
Connect emerging and established leaders with resources, agencies, and organizations to strengthen community capacity.
Secure grants and other resources to support educational and community‑development efforts.
Assess community needs, share findings with stakeholders, and communicate program impacts to the public.
Promote Extension programming to expand awareness and participation.
Benefits SDState offers a wide range of excellent benefits including medical, dental, flexible benefits, retirement plans, paid holidays, vacation leave, and more. Employees also have access to internal and state‑sponsored training and reduced tuition at all State of South Dakota institutions. Relocation benefits are available per university’s guidelines.
Minimum Qualifications
Master’s degree in Agriculture with an emphasis in food processing or a closely related field, obtained by first day of employment.
Knowledge of dairy food manufacturing.
Excellent oral and written communication skills.
Strong interpersonal and teamwork abilities.
Demonstrated use of technology in managing or delivering educational programs.
Demonstrated ability or potential to plan, implement, and evaluate educational materials and direct effective programs.
Willingness to travel and a valid driver’s license (or ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire).
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in food processing and dairy food manufacturing.
Experience conducting impact programming based on local needs assessments.
Previous leadership in developing or leading learning communities.
Experience with stakeholder leadership and teamwork.
Experience collaborating on funding proposals to start new or enhanced programming.
Application Deadline Position closes 12/1/2025.
Application Process Apply online via https://yourfuture.sdbor.edu. Attach a cover letter addressing how you meet the qualifications, a resume, and a reference page with contact information for three professional references. Email applications are not accepted.
Any offer of employment is contingent on verification of credentials, a criminal background check, and other requirements.
SDState is a tobacco‑free environment and requires a drug‑free workplace. This position is subject to South Dakota State University’s Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy.
Contact Alexander (Sandy) Smart at alexander.smart@sdstate.edu or 605‑688‑4940 for questions.
SDState promotes access and opportunities for all to participate in education, research, and service. SDSU is an equal‑opportunity employer. Accommodation for disabilities can be requested by emailing HR@sdstate.edu. Discrimination concerns can be addressed to the Equal Opportunity Officer/Title IX Coordinator, Human Resources, Morrill Hall 100.
Job Details
Seniority level:
Not Applicable
Employment type:
Full-time
Job function:
Other
Industry:
Higher Education
Supplementary Information
Medical insurance
Vision insurance
Pension plan
Paid maternity leave
Paid paternity leave
Student loan assistance
Tuition assistance
Disability insurance
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Base pay range: $55,339 – $66,407 per year.
Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available.
Key Responsibilities
Create and deliver innovative educational programs using technology and effective teaching methods.
Engage under‑served and under‑represented audiences across South Dakota.
Build and sustain relationships with community groups, volunteers, and partners at local, state, tribal, and federal levels.
Connect emerging and established leaders with resources, agencies, and organizations to strengthen community capacity.
Secure grants and other resources to support educational and community‑development efforts.
Assess community needs, share findings with stakeholders, and communicate program impacts to the public.
Promote Extension programming to expand awareness and participation.
Benefits SDState offers a wide range of excellent benefits including medical, dental, flexible benefits, retirement plans, paid holidays, vacation leave, and more. Employees also have access to internal and state‑sponsored training and reduced tuition at all State of South Dakota institutions. Relocation benefits are available per university’s guidelines.
Minimum Qualifications
Master’s degree in Agriculture with an emphasis in food processing or a closely related field, obtained by first day of employment.
Knowledge of dairy food manufacturing.
Excellent oral and written communication skills.
Strong interpersonal and teamwork abilities.
Demonstrated use of technology in managing or delivering educational programs.
Demonstrated ability or potential to plan, implement, and evaluate educational materials and direct effective programs.
Willingness to travel and a valid driver’s license (or ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire).
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in food processing and dairy food manufacturing.
Experience conducting impact programming based on local needs assessments.
Previous leadership in developing or leading learning communities.
Experience with stakeholder leadership and teamwork.
Experience collaborating on funding proposals to start new or enhanced programming.
Application Deadline Position closes 12/1/2025.
Application Process Apply online via https://yourfuture.sdbor.edu. Attach a cover letter addressing how you meet the qualifications, a resume, and a reference page with contact information for three professional references. Email applications are not accepted.
Any offer of employment is contingent on verification of credentials, a criminal background check, and other requirements.
SDState is a tobacco‑free environment and requires a drug‑free workplace. This position is subject to South Dakota State University’s Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy.
Contact Alexander (Sandy) Smart at alexander.smart@sdstate.edu or 605‑688‑4940 for questions.
SDState promotes access and opportunities for all to participate in education, research, and service. SDSU is an equal‑opportunity employer. Accommodation for disabilities can be requested by emailing HR@sdstate.edu. Discrimination concerns can be addressed to the Equal Opportunity Officer/Title IX Coordinator, Human Resources, Morrill Hall 100.
Job Details
Seniority level:
Not Applicable
Employment type:
Full-time
Job function:
Other
Industry:
Higher Education
Supplementary Information
Medical insurance
Vision insurance
Pension plan
Paid maternity leave
Paid paternity leave
Student loan assistance
Tuition assistance
Disability insurance
#J-18808-Ljbffr