Assistant Director of Communications

Assistant Director of Communications

South Dakota State University is seeking an Assistant Director of Communications to join our Intercollegiate Athletics team. In this role you will be responsible for providing accurate and timely information about SDSU Athletics to a variety of constituent groups, including media, fans, and the general public. This position is located in Brookings, South Dakota. This position is a 12-month, full-time, benefits-eligible position.
At South Dakota State University, Jackrabbit Athletics is built on tradition, excellence, and passion. Competing at the NCAA Division I level, our 19 sports programs push boundaries in The Summit League, the Missouri Valley Football Conference, the Pac 12 Conference (wrestling), and the National Collegiate Equestrian Association. Behind the competition is a dedicated team of professionals committed to delivering an unforgettable experience for student-athletes, fans, and the community. Learn more about Jackrabbit Athletics on the Jackrabbit Athletics website.
Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available for this position.
Key Responsibilities

The Assistant Director of Communications will support the promotion and coverage of South Dakota State University Athletics through strategic communications, media relations, digital content management, and game day operations. Responsibilities include writing and editing athletics publications and news releases, maintaining GoJacks.com, managing media and press box operations during home events, enhancing social media presence for assigned sports, maintaining historical records and statistics, and promoting student-athletes and coaches through award nominations and storytelling initiatives.
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.
Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:
An earned Bachelor's degree in Journalism or related field completed by start date
At least one year of experience working in collegiate athletics communications
Experience in sports reporting and feature writing
Proficiency in website management including content editing and updates
Strong oral, written, and interpersonal communication skills
Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and other nontraditional hours as needed
Preferred Qualifications:
Master's degree in Journalism, Sports Management or related field
Experience covering the sport of wrestling
Background in media relations and game/event management
NCAA Division I experience
Application Process

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, curriculum vitae, and a reference page with the contact information for three professional references. Email applications will not be accepted. Please contact SDState 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.
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.