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*** $2,500 Hiring Incentive! ***
Current Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources Employees do NOT qualify for Hiring Incentive

PLEASE ATTACH THE ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS LISTED AT THE BOTTOM OF THIS PAGE

Job ID: 24492
Agency: Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources/Division of Water
Location: Pierre
Salary: $29.30 per hour
Closing Date: 10/13/2023

This is a full-time position with the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources. For more information on the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, please visit https://danr.sd.gov/.

The mission of the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) is to protect and preserve the state's agriculture, environment, and natural resources with the vision of a prosperous economy, diverse agricultural opportunities, clean air, clean water, and healthy families.

DANR's Water Rights Program is looking for a talented engineer to join our team. You must have a demonstrated ability as a technically minded problem-solver with strong numerical and scientific capability. We are seeking highly motivated individuals who have a team-player attitude and a strong desire to learn.

Our team is responsible for helping grow South Dakota by working with water users to promote economic development in an environmentally responsible manner. Entering public service provides you the opportunity to become a steward of public policy and contribute to the improvements that are vital to the quality of life. You will join a team of engineers who work together to administer the use of South Dakota's surface and groundwater resources to ensure our water resources are maintained in a sustainable manner for future generations.

This work involves:

  • conducting technical engineering review of requests to use the state's water to determine if water is available and whether a new diversion can be developed without impairment to existing uses;
  • inspecting constructed water use systems and dams to ensure sites are properly and safely constructed;
  • participating in the program's semi-annual lake level survey;
  • assisting in managing the state's observation well network;
  • conducting investigations involving water use and working to resolve disputes; and
  • assisting in licensing well drillers and ensuring wells are completed in accordance with construction standards.

The Water Rights Program makes recommendations on whether to approve, defer, or deny applications for water right permits to place the state's water to beneficial use. Common water uses include irrigation, commercial, municipal, or other drinking water systems. This is achieved by working with a team of engineers and other department professionals in evaluating the state's water resources. Your daily work is meaningful and you will contribute to something bigger than yourself.

Normal working hours are 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., five days per week. The position requires frequent contact with the general public and the regulated community. Travel will be required, which may include several consecutive days in the field conducting inspections of water use systems, dams, and complaints. Office work includes sitting or standing at a desk and using a computer. The successful applicant will be required to provide expert technical testimony at hearings before the Water Management Board.

Benefits of Working for DANR:
We offer a $2,500 hiring and retention incentive; the first half of the incentive will be paid to you by your second paycheck. The remainder of the incentive is paid after you have worked with us for 15 months.

The state of South Dakota offers a generous health benefits package, which includes health, vision, and dental insurance, in addition to one of the top retirement systems in the nation.

The State of South Dakota understands the importance of having a work/life balance, and this position includes paid vacation, sick leave, and family leave. You will work a 40-hour work week, which leaves you plenty of time to enjoy all that central South Dakota has to offer.

This job is an entry-level engineering position. We offer extensive training opportunities to build your skills and knowledge. DANR cares about its employees and their career development. We offer the opportunity for career advancement in both technical and managerial tracks. You will work with and under the direction of licensed Professional Engineers and we offer incentives to obtain your Professional Engineering license. In addition to this, DANR offers development opportunities for employees throughout the year. This is not just a job; it is an opportunity to start your career.

Licenses and Certifications:
Our department values professional licensure. We will give preference to candidates that have successfully passed the Engineer-In-Training/Fundamentals of Engineering exam or have the ability to obtain the license. We will provide the training and experience that allows you to pursue your Professional Engineering license.

The ability to obtain a valid South Dakota driver's license is required.

The Ideal Candidate Will Have:
Our ideal candidate is someone with a desire for continual learning and strong problem-solving, analytical, and interpersonal skills. We are looking for someone who wants to serve the citizens of South Dakota by protecting our water while growing our economy. Only applicants who possess a Bachelor's or Master's degree in environmental, civil, geological, or a related engineering field will be considered.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
You will use your knowledge, skills, and abilities to help South Dakota grow and to protect our beautiful natural resources. We are looking for candidates that have:

  • knowledge of the principles and practices of environmental, geological, or civil engineering;
  • ability to become knowledgeable on South Dakota's geology, groundwater resources, and surface water resources;
  • knowledge of investigative procedures;
  • skill to make appropriate decisions by applying established engineering guidelines;
  • ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing;
  • ability to work effectively with a team of engineers to protect South Dakota's water resources.

You will be expected to routinely communicate and coordinate with other engineers, other agencies, and the public; therefore, good communication skills are essential.

Additional Requirements: Please attach a resume with your application.

This position is eligible for Veterans’ Preference per ARSD 55:10:02:08.

The State of South Dakota does not sponsor work visas for new or existing employees. All persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and complete an Employment Eligibility Verification, Form I-9. The State of South Dakota as an employer will be using E-Verify to complete employment eligibility verification upon hire.

The State of South Dakota offers employer paid health insurance plus eleven paid holidays, generous vacation and sick leave accrual, dental, vision, and other insurance options, and retirement benefits. You can view our benefits information at https://bhr.sd.gov/job-seekers/work-for-state-government/. This position is a member of Class A retirement under SDRS.

Must apply online: https://sodakprod-lm01.cloud.infor.com:1443/lmghr/xmlhttp/shorturl.do?key=NGN
You must apply online, emailed resumes or submissions will not be accepted.
South Dakota Bureau of Human Resources
Telephone: 605.773.3148 Email: careers@state.sd.us
http://bhr.sd.gov/workforus
"An Equal Opportunity Employer"