Apprentice Plumbing Specialist

South Dakota State University is seeking an Apprentice Plumbing Specialist to help keep our campus operating at its best. We’re looking for someone who is eager to learn, and takes pride in craftsmanship, problem‑solving, and quality work. In this role, you’ll support a wide range of plumbing projects that ensure our facilities remain safe, reliable, and fully functional. We provide the tools, training, and support you need to excel in your work and continue developing your skills in the plumbing trade. This position is located in Brookings, South Dakota.

SDState is the state’s largest, most comprehensive university with over $84 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.

Facilities and Services is the internal department overseeing the growth, maintenance, repair and changes of the facilities, infrastructure and grounds of campus and satellite locations. Campus Maintenance staff has technical expertise in electrical, plumbing, HVAC, carpentry, welding, mechanics, building repair work, relocation, and grounds. Services include the operation, maintenance, repair and remodeling of university buildings and grounds and the operation and repair of certain types of equipment.

Must be authorized to work in the U.S. Sponsorship is not available for this position.

Job Responsibilities: Assist with performing varied plumbing work; Support maintenance and repair of all plumbing systems, including heating, cooling, domestic water, and sewer systems on campus and at local agricultural teaching/research sites; Trench/excavate for underground plumbing; assist with remodel projects; install piping and or plumbing fixtures in buildings and outside; perform & assist with general building plumbing maintenance and service work; locate underground utilities.

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.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

Knowledge of:

• Basic plumbing principles and techniques
• Basic construction practices preferred
• Knowledge of plumbing codes, regulations, and safety procedures preferred.

Skill & Ability to:

• Learn a variety of new information and skills quickly
• Read and understand construction and plumbing drawings or willingness to learn.
• Demonstrate attention to detail.
• Able to follow written and verbal instructions confidently and willing to ask clarifying questions when unsure how to proceed.
• Demonstrate critical thinking
• Able to work effectively in diverse environments and weather conditions, and capable of lifting and carrying up to 50 lbs.
• Collaborate effectively as a team player while maintaining a positive, can‑do attitude as well as work independently with a high level of self-motivation
• Proficient in the safe and effective use of basic hand tools.
• Committed to working safely and following established safety procedures.
• Diploma in plumbing technology, pipefitting, HVAC/R, or construction preferred.
• Associates degree or higher in building trades, mechanical systems, construction or similar preferred.

Required License:

• Valid Driver’s License
• South Dakota Apprentice Plumbing 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.

Deadline: open until filled with a first consideration date of 10/07/2026

For additional information regarding this position or questions about the online application process, please contact Amy Jones – 605-688-4637.

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.