Program Manager – 4-H Livestock

South Dakota State University; Brookings (SD); On-site; USD 51,000 - 62,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical and dental benefits

Retirement plans

Paid holidays and vacation

Relocation assistance

Job summary

South Dakota State University Extension in Brookings is seeking a Program Manager for 4-H Livestock to coordinate statewide livestock programming and events. The role partners with Extension, campus, and expert stakeholders to deliver animal-related curricula and leadership development for youth involved in 4-H.

The position emphasizes planning, scheduling, and logistics with an emphasis on inclusion and continuous improvement. A valid driver's license and willingness to travel are required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science, Agriculture, or closely related field by application date.
• More than 3 years of experience with 4-H or youth livestock programs.
• Experience leading and teaching groups.
• Experience managing conflict and building consensus.
• Ability to develop grants and cost-recovery mechanisms.
• Proficient computer skills (word processing, internet, email, social media).

Responsibilities

• Coordinate statewide livestock programming and event management.
• Collaborate with SDSU Extension, campus and partners to deliver curricula.
• Support planning, delivery, and continuous improvement of livestock opportunities.
• Ensure compliance with laws, policies, and inclusive practices.

Skills

Leadership

Verbal & written communication

Grant writing / cost recovery

Group teaching experience

Travel readiness

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science, Agriculture, or closely related field

Job description

Program Manager – 4-H Livestock

South Dakota State University (SDState) is seeking a Program Manager – 4-H Livestock. This position will manage state‑wide events and activities related to 4-H livestock/animal projects and activities and assist with development and delivery of animal‑related curriculum in collaboration with Extension, campus, and expert partners. This position is located in Brookings. This position is a 12‑month, full‑time, benefits‑eligible position.

SDSU Extension 4 H is a community that provides experiences where young people learn by doing. Kids complete hands‑on projects in areas like health, science, agriculture, and citizenship, in a positive environment where they receive guidance from adult mentors and are encouraged to take on proactive leadership roles. Kids experience 4-H through in‑school and after‑school programs, school, and community clubs and 4 H camps. We recognize that the youth of today are our future leaders and what they learn and experience in 4‑H will help them develop into contributing citizens who will give back to their communities in the future.

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

Key Responsibilities

The Program Manager, 4-H Livestock works collaboratively with SDSU Extension and South Dakota 4-H colleagues to support state livestock programming, including event management, educational development, stakeholder engagement, and logistical coordination. In partnership with other program managers, field specialists and educators, this position contributes to the planning, delivery, and continuous improvement of livestock project opportunities and activities across the state. The Program Manager supports the SDSU Extension and 4-H 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 varied South Dakotan’s.

Benefits

SDState 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. 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. Relocation benefits are available per university’s guidelines.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science, Agriculture, or closely related field by the date of application.
• More than 3 years of experience with 4-H or other youth livestock programs.
• Experience leading and teaching groups.
• Experience managing conflict and bringing divergent opinions toward consensus.
• Ability to develop grants and /or cost recovery mechanisms to assist with program sustainability.
• Ability to effectively and efficiently use a computer for wordprocessing, internet based programs, social media, and email.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Valid driver’s license or ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire, and willingness to travel.

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 [e-mail]. Individuals with concerns regarding discrimination should contact: Equal Opportunity Officer/Title IX Coordinator, Human Resources, Morrill Hall 100, SDSU, Brookings, SD 57007. Phone: [phone].

Department Description and Cultural Expectations

SDState is the state’s largest, most comprehensive university with over $94 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.

Cognitive Requirements

• Analyzing
• Perform calculations
• Reading
• Reasoning
• Verbal Communication
• Written Communication
• Frequent Change
• Logic
• Memory
• Multiple Priorities

Physical Requirements

• Bending
• Stooping
• Twisting
• Crouching
• Lifting light
• Lifting moderate
• Pushing/Pulling
• Reaching
• Sitting for sustained periods of time
• Squatting
• Walking
• Driving

Sensory Requirements

None listed

Working Conditions & Exposures

• Changes of Temperature
• Exposure to Dust
• Extreme Weather Conditions (wind, rain, snow, humidity)
• Working Around Machinery

Working Environment

• Office Environment
• Outdoors Environment

Contact Information

For questions on the position, contact Rosie Nold, Interim State 4‑H Program Director, [e-mail].

Posting Details

• Posting Date: 09/10/2026
• Closing Date: 09/30/2026
• Open Until Filled: No
• Duration of the Term: 12 months
• Appointment Percent: 100
• Work Hours: Daily Monday-Friday; Some evenings/weekends.
• Appointment Type: Regular
• Faculty Status: No
• Scope of Search: External (includes Internal)
• This position requires: Travel, Overnight stays, Weekends/Holidays, Valid DriversLicense

Advertised Salary

The minimum salary for the Program Manager – 4-H Livestock is $56,169 depending on qualifications.