Lead Animal Technician

Lead Animal TechnicianSouth Dakota State University- Vivarium Department Close date: October 28, 2026 Join a dynamic team supporting cutting-edge animal research and advancing excellence in animal care. This position plays a key role in overseeing undergraduate staff, supporting training and facility operations, maintaining inventory and equipment, and contributing to the gnotobiotic program. The role also provides hands-on support for animal husbandry and research while serving as a key backup to the Animal Resource Wing Manager. This position is located in Brookings, South Dakota and is a 12 month, 100% time position. SDState is the state’s largest, most comprehensive university with an annual budget over $360 million, 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. Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available for this position. Job Responsibilities:Work with and alongside subordinate animal care staff and students, leading with enthusiasm and initiative. This position assists the Animal Resource Manager with animal care oversight.Assist with running the vivarium training program for vivarium employees and research team members and assist with document management.Manage and oversee the preventative maintenance of the vivarium’s various equipment. 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. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities: Knowledge of:Understand the animal husbandry and medical needs of numerous animal speciesThoroughly understand pathogens of multiple species and the means (engineering, SOPS, PPE, disinfectants)Computer software (Microsoft Word, Excel, Access, and Outlook)Gnotobiotic and colostrum deprived animal work-animals and equipmentPreferred graduation from accredited veterinary technician programPreferred research background/experience Skill & Ability to:Critical thinking and initiativeAbility to supervise undergraduate students and provide direction to other techniciansBuild a working knowledge of biosecurity and biosafetyFacility user and staff training. Research supportMust have a valid driver’s license Application Procedures: SDState accepts applications through an on-line employment site. To apply, visit: https://yourfuture.sdbor.edu, search by the position title, view the job announcement, and click on “apply for this job.” 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. 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. SDState 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. [SE9613, 40642] For additional information regarding this position or questions about the online application process, please contact Human Resources at 605-688-4128. 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.