
Assistant to the Dean
- Brookings, SD
- $60,873 per year
- Permanent
- Full-time
Institution South Dakota State University
Working Title Assistant to the Dean
Posting Number NFE02836P
Department SDSU-Natural Sciences
Physical Location of Position (City) Brookings
Posting TextJoin a dynamic team driving innovation in the sciences! The College of Natural Sciences at South Dakota State University is seeking a proactive and detail-oriented professional to serve as Assistant to the Dean. This key role provides high-level support to the Dean and plays a central part in driving strategic initiatives, coordinating special projects, and enhancing organizational effectiveness across the college. The position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to a collaborative, forward-thinking academic environment focused on innovation and impact. This position is located in and is a 12-month, full-time, benefits-eligible position.The was established in 2018 through the strategic realignment of four departments at South Dakota State University. This structure strengthens student support and elevates the visibility of research and academic programs. Faculty in the college lead cutting-edge research in areas such as cancer treatment, bioproduct development, energy storage, and emergency planning-offering undergraduate and graduate students meaningful, hands-on experiences that drive real-world impact. Graduates pursue careers as educators, scientists, healthcare professionals, and policy leaders. Nationally ranked for program value, research funding, and specialized expertise, the college is focused on continued growth in scholarship, outreach, and improving quality of life.Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available for this position.KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Lead, coordinate, and implement special projects and policy initiatives on behalf of the Dean.
- Conduct research and analysis to support decision-making; prepare reports, summaries, and recommendations.
- Draft and develop a variety of documents, including policies, procedures, presentations, and operational materials.
- Manage incoming communication and information requests; prepare responses and materials as directed.
- Stay informed of the Dean's priorities and proactively coordinate related activities, meetings, and follow-up.
- Be familiar with University policies and maintain strict confidentiality and discretion.
- Collaborate with staff to ensure strategic priorities are met and daily operations run efficiently.
- Serve as a liaison or representative of the Dean as requested.
- Support organizational effectiveness by advising staff, promoting communication, and ensuring office coverage.
- Attend meetings and committees as assigned; communicate key information to the Dean.
- Gather content from departments, faculty, and student leaders and lead the design and development of newsletters, reports, and digital platforms.
- Maintain a college-wide calendar and coordinate events in collaboration with the Dean and leadership team, including logistics, scheduling, communications, and execution.
- Bachelor's degree completed by start date.
- Proficient with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)
- Strong written and verbal communications skills.
- Excellent time management and organizational skills with the ability to prioritize effectively in a face-paced environment.
- Positive and constructive attitude with the ability to work effectively as a member of a team, taking independent initiative and proper accountability.
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to gather, interpret and synthesize complex information from various sources to identify actionable recommendations.
- Capable of providing superior service and the ability to work with a wide range of constituents with diplomacy; and
- A valid driver's license or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire and a willingness to travel.
- Experience with event coordination and management
- Experience creating and implementing standard operating procedures as well as maintaining procedural documentation
- Experience with content management, organization and publishing tools such as Canva/Adobe
- Advanced proficiency with DocuSign (templates, Powerform, etc.) and MS Excel (perform data analysis, pivot tables and charts, create macros, etc.).
Posting Date 09/02/2025
Closing Date 09/22/2025
Open Until Filled No
First Consideration Date
Advertised Salary Salary is commensurate with qualifications starting at $60,873.
Duration of the Term 12 months
If Other, describe duration
Appointment Percent 100
Work HoursRegular business hours and scheduled irregular work hours (a few times a month)
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, Weekends/Holidays, Valid Drivers License
If other, please indicate
Department Description and Cultural Expectationsis 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 for families, students, young professionals, and retirees, which offers an abundance of attractions and activities.
Equal Employment Opportunity StatementSouth 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 . 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 InformationFor questions on the position please contact Sen Subramanian at 605-688-4420 or .