Extension Forage Field Specialist I

The South Dakota Board of Regents is hiring an Extension Forage Field Specialist I to lead research-based programming for forage producers in South Dakota. The role involves collaboration with producers, agribusiness, and governmental agencies to address forage management needs. The position is full-time and can be located at various Extension Regional Center Sites in South Dakota. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S., and sponsorship is not available.
Working Title

Extension Forage Field Specialist I

Posting Number

NFE02686P

Department

SDSU-Agriculture Program-Ext

Physical Location of Position (City)

Unspecified

Posting Text

South Dakota State University (SDSU) Extension is hiring an Extension Forage Field Specialist I to provide strong regional and statewide leadership in delivering research-based programming to support the forage producers in South Dakota. The position is supervised by the Agriculture and Natural Resources Program Leader and is affiliated with the either the Department of Agronomy, Horticulture, and Plant Science or the Department of Animal Science depending on the successful applicant’s field of expertise. We are looking for a skilled individual who can build collaborative relationships with producer groups, agribusiness, and governmental agencies to identify ongoing and emerging sustainable management needs of forage producers. This position can be located at one of our Extension Regional Center Sites in Aberdeen, Lemmon, Mitchell, Pierre, Sioux Falls or Watertown. This position is a 12-month, full-time, benefits-eligible position.

This position will work with producers, industry representatives, governmental agencies, and university researchers to address critical questions such as forage crop quality, yield, harvesting strategies, equipment, ensiling processes, hay storage strategies, and soil health of cropland devoted to forage production. Common forages grown in South Dakota include corn silage, alfalfa, and small grains, annual legumes, or warm-season annuals green chopped or ensiled.

SDSU Extension is one mode of outreach utilized by South Dakota State University. It brings educational programs and research-based information to the citizens of South Dakota. It also works with academic departments and the Agricultural Experiment Station to provide unbiased, science-based knowledge focused on issues and needs. Extension has five capstone program areas: Competitive Crops Systems; Competitive Livestock Systems; Youth and Community Leadership; Food and Families; and Urban/Rural Initiatives which are part of the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences and the College of Education and Human Sciences.

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

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

As an Extension Field Specialist I, expectations are based on these responsibilities:
• Ability to identify and monitor variables and issues important to a learning community vitality.
• Participate in externally funded projects led by Extension State Specialists or Field Specialist colleagues within and/or across capstone areas.
• Use cutting-edge research-based information and data in programming and collaborates on state emerging issues.
• Develop relationships with all pertinent stakeholders and/or groups on state-wide emerging issues. Provides subject matter support.
• Utilize and adapt technology in program development and delivery (SDSU Extension).
• Recruit and utilize volunteers to enhance educational outreach. Identifies potential industry leaders to help accomplish learning community and industry goals.

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. 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:
• Master’s degree obtained by first day of employment with at least one degree in Agriculture with an emphasis in forage management, dairy cattle production, beef cattle production, or closely related field.
• Knowledge of forage production systems.
• Knowledge of dairy cattle or beef cattle production systems.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work as a team member.
• 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.
• Valid driver’s license, or ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire, and willingness to travel.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
• Ph.D. with an emphasis in forage production systems.
• Knowledge of ensiling forages.
• Previous Extension experience.
• Demonstrated experience of conducting impact programming based on local needs assessment.
• Demonstrated leadership in developing or leading learning communities.
• Demonstrated leadership and teamwork with stakeholders.
• Demonstrated collaboration in developing funding proposals to support new and/or enhanced programming.

APPLICATION PROCESS:

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 SDSU 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.

South Dakota State University 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

04/25/2025

Closing Date

Open Until Filled

Yes

First Consideration Date

05/20/2025

Advertised Salary

$60,000-$65,000 depending on experience.

Duration of the Term

12 months

If Other, describe duration

Appointment Percent

100

Work Hours

Typical Hours Worked Per Week

Appointment Type

Regular

Faculty Status

No

Scope of Search

External (includes Internal)

If internal, define scope of search

This position requires

Travel, Overnight stays, Valid Drivers License

If other, please indicate

This position can be located at one of our Extension Regional Center Sites in Aberdeen, Lemmon, Mitchell, Pierre, Sioux Falls or Watertown.

Department Description and Cultural Expectations

South Dakota State University is the state’s largest, most comprehensive university with over $60 million annual research expenditures, more than 200 academic programs and an enrollment of approximately 12,000 students. The university is part of a dynamic community for families, students, young professionals, and retirees, which offers an abundance of attractions and activities.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

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 access mission. SDSU is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to, and SDSU prohibits unlawful discrimination of all legally protected classes in the offering of all educational programs and employment. Arrangements for accommodations required by disabilities can be made by emailing HR@sdstate.edu. Individuals with concerns regarding discrimination should contact: Equal Opportunity Officer/Title IX Coordinator, Human Resources, Morrill Hall 100, SDSU, Brookings, SD 57007. Phone: (605) 688-4128.

Contact Information

For questions on the position, contact search committee chair, Sean Kelly at Sean.Kelly@sdstate.edu or 605-842-1267