South Dakota State University (SDSU) is searching for an Agronomy Extension Field Specialist I in one of our regional extension centers located in either Aberdeen, Lemmon, Mitchell, Pierre, Rapid City, or Watertown, SD. This is a 12-month, full-time, benefit-eligible, non-faculty exempt, 100% Extension appointment. The successful candidate will specifically address the cropping needs of Central and Western South Dakota using environmentally sound best management practices. The Extension Field Specialist I supports the SDSU Extension mission, strategic vision, and planning assumptions, complies with applicable federal and state laws and regulations, and all University policies, including Affirmative Action, and commits to the inclusion of a variety of audiences.South Dakota State University promotes access to and opportunities for all to receive the benefit of and participate in education, research, and service and is especially interested in candidates that can contribute to this land-grant mission of access.
PURPOSE OF POSITION:
To provide strong regional and statewide leadership in delivering research-based programming in the Competitive Crops capstone area. The incumbent will be responsible for the development and dissemination of research-based programming and resources in support of producers growing grain crops across South Dakota. The position will make cropping production system recommendations which will require the incumbent to hold a Certified Crop Advisor certification or obtain certification within two years of employment. As the Agronomy Extension Field Specialist I, you will travel extensively to build strong relationships with producer groups, agribusinesses, and governmental agencies to identify ongoing and emerging needs of crop producers. This position is accountable to the Agriculture and Natural Resources Program Leader and is affiliated with the Department of Agronomy, Horticulture and Plant Science. Collaboration in research and extension projects with faculty from Department of Agronomy, Horticulture and Plant Sciences as well as other research and extension centers across South Dakota is encouraged.
BENEFITS:
South Dakota State University 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. Relocation benefits are available per university’s guidelines. 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.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• M.S. degree in Agronomy, Weed Science, Plant Science, or other closely related field completed by first day of employment.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States. Sponsorship is not available for this position.
• Knowledge of Northern Plains cropping systems, supporting industries, and grower groups.
• Willingness to collaborate and conduct applied research at Dakota Lakes Research Farm and on-farm sites with individual growers.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct outreach needs assessments.
• Demonstrated ability to evaluate educational materials.
• Demonstrated ability to plan and implement effective outreach events.
• Certified Crop Advisor certification or ability to obtain within two years of employment.
• Demonstrated ability to work as a team member.
• Effective written communication skills.
• Effective verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
• Understanding of accounting procedures.
• Effective organizational and time management skills.
• Valid driver’s license or ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire, and willingness to travel.
  
  

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Ph.D. completed by first day of employment in Agronomy, Weed Science, Plant Science, or other closely related field.
• Previous Extension experience.
• Potential ability to identify and develop funding proposals to support new and/or enhanced programming within and/or across capstone areas as PI or Co-PI.
• Experience in publishing extension materials and/or peer reviewed journals.

APPLICATION PROCESS:
This system guides you through the electronic application form and requires you to attach a cover letter, resume, and reference page, which includes the current mailing and email addresses and phone numbers of at least five professional references. Email applications will not be accepted. Please contact SDSU Human Resources at (605) 688-4128 if you require assistance with this process.

Any offer of employment is conditioned upon 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.

South Dakota State University is a tobacco free environment. It is university policy 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.