Research Assistant

Updated: about 2 months ago
Location: Sturgis, SOUTH DAKOTA
Deadline: ;

Posting Details
Posting Details


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Institution South Dakota State University
Working Title Research Assistant
Posting Number NFE02085P
Department SDSU-Agronomy, Horticulture & Plant Science
Physical Location of Position (City) Sturgis
Posting Text
Are you eager to contribute to innovative research that will make a visible impact? Join the research team at South Dakota State Universities West River Research Farm and help us advance our agricultural research and efforts to enhance overall quality of life of western South Dakotans. This position is located in Sturgis, South Dakota and is a 12 month, full-time, benefit-eligible position.  
 
The West River Research Farm is comprised of 111 acres located northwest of Sturgis. The farm was acquired by South Dakota State University in 2018. It focuses on agronomic and livestock research for conditions similar to those in western South Dakota. Research at the farm focuses on soil health, livestock integration, soil microbiome dynamics, plant physiology and variety trials. 
 
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.
 
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Assist with the agricultural research being conducted at the West River Research Farm. This is accomplished by successfully implementing lab and field research experiments and maintaining the facilities in which these experiments take place. 
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.  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.  
 
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Science, Biology, Environmental Science, Natural Resource Management or related field completed by start date;
  • At least one year of experience working in a scientific laboratory;
  • At least one year of experience working in an agricultural setting;
  • Ability to obtain Pesticide Applicators License within one year of hire; 
  • Effective written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills; and 
  • Valid driver’s license or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire.  

 
PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:
  • Additional experience working with and developing laboratory assays;
  • Experience in agricultural research; and 
  • Knowledge of statistics and related software.

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 07/13/2023
Closing Date
Open Until Filled Yes
First Consideration Date 08/03/2023
Advertised Salary Commensurate with qualifications.
Duration of the Term 12 months
If Other, describe duration
Appointment Percent 100
Work Hours
40 hours/wk, M-Th
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
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. We offer a rich academic experience in an environment of inclusions and access.  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 affirmative action, equal opportunity employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to, and SDSU prohibits discrimination on, the basis of, sex, race, color, creed,  national origin, ancestry, citizenship, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, religion, age, disability, genetic information, veteran’s status, or any other status that may become protected in the offering of all educational programs and employment. Arrangements for accommodations required by disabilities can be made by emailing [email protected].  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, Dr. Christopher Graham, [email protected] or 605.394.2236.