Are you passionate about fostering student engagement and success? South Dakota State University (SDSU) is seeking a dynamic and people-centered leader to join our team as the Director of Student Activities and Orientation. In this key role, you will guide and direct the work of student programs within the Department of Student Union and Activities, administering comprehensive programs designed to enhance student life and support our campus community. This is a 12-month, full-time, benefits-eligible position located in Brookings, South Dakota . 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. The Department of Student Union & Activities is housed within the Division of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management. The division cultivates enrollment, student success and opportunity for all through innovative programs, intentional experiences, exceptional services, and premier facilities to enrich student development, promote wellbeing, and foster learning in a vibrant community. Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available for this position.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

The duties of the Director of Student Activities and Orientation include, but are not limited to: Direct and oversee the Office of Student Activities and Orientation, guiding its programs and services to foster a vibrant campus culture. Lead the administration of New Student Orientation as well as other retention and recruitment programs. Develop and implement innovative retention and recruitment initiatives to support student success.

SALARY:

The salary for this position is commensurate with qualifications, minimum of $67,965.

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.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

An earned Master's degree in Student Affairs or related field by start date. 5 years of professional experience working in Student Affairs. Experience with supervision of full-time staff. Experience with university program oversight. Experience managing a budget. Experience training college students for campus employment. Valid driver's license or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Experience leading New Student Orientation programs and new student programs for university. Experience leading student activities programs and related services. Knowledge of website development. Experience with the assessment of learning and program evaluation.

APPLICATION DEADLINE

Position closes August 31, 2026.

APPLICATION PROCESS

SDSU 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. Please contact SDSU Human Resources at (605) 688-4128 if you require assistance with this process. 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. South Dakota State University 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. For questions on the position, contact search committee chair, Lexi Holen at Alexis.

Holen@sdstate.edu .