Natural Resources Engineer I or II

South Dakota State Government; Pierre (SD); On-site; USD 44,165 - 46,838; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hiring and retention incentive of $2,500

Entry-level with training and mentorship

Professional development support

Zero premium employee health insurance

Generous vacation and sick leave

Job summary

A governmental agency in Pierre, SD, is seeking a motivated Engineer I or II to join their Water Rights Program, which protects South Dakota's agricultural and natural resources. The ideal candidate will hold a degree in engineering and possess strong problem-solving and communication skills. Duties involve technical reviews, inspections, and utilizing GIS tools. This role offers extensive training and professional development opportunities, with a competitive salary and benefits package.

Qualifications

• Desire for continual learning and growth.
• Preference for candidates who have passed the EIT exam or are eligible to obtain licensure.
• Valid South Dakota driver’s license required.
• Strong decision-making skills based on engineering guidelines.

Responsibilities

• Conduct technical reviews of water use applications.
• Inspect water systems and dams for safety.
• Participate in lake level surveys.
• Investigate complaints and resolve disputes.
• Utilize GIS for documentation and analysis.

Skills

Problem-solving

Analytical skills

Interpersonal skills

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's or master's degree in environmental, civil, geological, agricultural, or related engineering field

Tools

GIS

Microsoft Office

Job description

Overview

Department of Agriculture & Natural Resources (DANR) is seeking a motivated Engineer I or II to join its Water Rights Program. This program plays a vital role in protecting South Dakota's agriculture, environment, and natural resources while supporting a prosperous economy and healthy communities. As part of this mission-driven team, you will contribute to something bigger than yourself through the sustainable management of the state's surface and groundwater resources. Salary: $32.06 - $34.00 hourly, depending on qualifications. Pay Grade: E1 or E2. Location: Pierre, SD.

Responsibilities

• Conduct technical reviews of water use applications to ensure availability and prevent impairment of existing uses.
• Inspect water systems and dams for safety and compliance.
• Participate in lake level surveys and assist in managing the state's observation well network.
• Investigate complaints, resolve disputes, license well drillers, and ensure adherence to construction standards.
• Testify before the Water Management Board and make recommendations on water permit approvals.
• Utilize GIS and Microsoft Office tools for analysis and documentation.
• Provide customer service and technical assistance on water rights issues.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or master's degree in environmental, civil, geological, agricultural, or related engineering field.
• Desire for continual learning, strong problem-solving, analytical, and interpersonal skills.
• Preference for candidates who have passed the Engineer‑In‑Training (EIT) exam or are eligible to obtain licensure.
• Valid South Dakota driver’s license required.
• Strong decision‑making skills grounded in established engineering guidelines.
• Clear and effective verbal and written communication abilities.

Licenses and Certifications

• Professional licensure preference: EIT exam passed or eligibility to obtain license.
• Valid South Dakota driver’s license required.

Benefits

2,500 hiring and retention incentive (half paid by second paycheck).

Entry‑level engineering role with extensive training and mentorship from licensed Professional Engineers.

Opportunities for advancement in both technical and managerial tracks.

Professional development support for pursuit of Professional Engineering license.

0 premium employee health insurance option, eleven paid holidays, generous vacation and sick leave accrual, dental, vision, retirement benefits.

Class A retirement under SDRS.

Additional Requirements

Attach resume or CV. Veterans’ Preference per ARSD 55:10:02:08. State of South Dakota does not sponsor work visas. Verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete an Employment Eligibility Verification, Form I‑9. E‑Verify will be used upon hire.

Equal Opportunity Employer.