The picturesque state of South Dakota is not just known for its stunning landscapes and rich history but is also a hub for innovation and education. South Dakota State University (SDState), the state’s largest university located in Brookings, South Dakota, is making waves in the scientific community through its crucial role in fostering aerospace and STEM education. At the forefront of this initiative is the South Dakota Space Grant Consortium (SDSGC), which is seeking a Deputy Director to further elevate its mission of expanding educational and exploratory opportunities in aerospace and earth science.
The South Dakota Space Grant Consortium is a vital component of the state’s aim to integrate science and technology education across its boundaries. The position of Deputy Director, based in the scenic city of Brookings, is a full-time, 12-month appointment geared towards managing the day-to-day operations of the SDSGC. This role is integral to ensuring compliance with NASA Space Grant and NASA EPSCoR requirements, pivotal programs that underpin the consortium’s success in cultivating a new generation of skilled professionals in the field.
- Location: Brookings, South Dakota — a hub for education and innovation.
- Key Responsibilities: Programming coordination, grant management, budgeting, and public outreach.
- Benefits: Comprehensive health coverage, retirement plans, tuition reduction, and more.
The Deputy Director will spearhead various initiatives including coordinating SDSGC programs across member institutions and affiliates. This involves fostering student research, facilitating faculty grants, and promoting K–12 and public engagement. Furthermore, the role encompasses leading internal grant competitions like SDSGC Program Innovation Grants and managing proposal reviews and award communications.
A keen focus on budgetary oversight is essential, ensuring robust fiscal management in collaboration with the Director and Management Team. The Deputy Director will also be responsible for compiling thorough reports for NASA and state stakeholders, complying with federal grant regulations.
Promoting Programs: A critical component of the Deputy Director’s responsibilities includes public outreach. This involves representing the SDSGC in meetings, developing funding proposals, and promoting the consortium’s goals statewide through workshops and campus visits. Notably, this role requires travel across South Dakota and occasionally to national conferences, enriching the state’s STEM landscape through collaboration and partnership.
South Dakota Space Grant Consortium
At the heart of this mission is the commitment to education and workforce development in South Dakota. The SDSGC, supported by SDState, aims to instill a spirit of exploration and discovery in students, educators, and the general public. This mission aligns seamlessly with South Dakota’s wider objectives, bolstering opportunities for residents through education and research in aerospace and other STEM disciplines.
SDState is celebrated for its commitment to offering top-tier benefits to its employees—ranging from medical and dental coverage to a retirement plan with a 6% match. The university supports continuous professional development, providing access to internal training and reduced tuition for state-supported courses, a testament to its investment in building a knowledge-based workforce.
Todd Letcher
Furthermore, one of the highlights of joining SDState is its rich academic environment, marked by $94 million in annual research expenditures and a dynamic community of over 12,000 students. The Deputy Director will thrive in this vibrant ecosystem, leveraging the university’s vast resources and collaborative networks.
Prospective candidates are required to apply via the SDState online employment site before October 12, 2026. A bachelor’s degree in a STEM or Education field and at least one year of relevant experience are the minimum qualifications. Preference is given to those with an advanced degree and familiarity with NASA programs. SDState champions equal employment opportunities and maintains a tobacco-free and drug-free environment as part of its commitment to fostering a safe and healthy workplace.
Join SDState and the South Dakota Space Grant Consortium on their mission to propel South Dakota’s educational and exploratory frontiers to new heights. For inquiries, please contact Todd Letcher.