Database Systems Engineer

SDState is seeking a skilled System Engineer specializing Microsoft Cloud Offerings (Azure, Intune, Microsoft 365, Entra) to join its IT Systems Administration Department. This role is ideal for well-organized, self-motivated team players who want to contribute to the Office of Information Technology’s (OIT) mission of providing technology, skills, and services that empower the university community. OIT is committed to creating an environment in which staff, faculty, and students will have opportunities to succeed and advance their career, education, and creative activities. This is an on-site 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.

Located in the vibrant community of Brookings, South Dakota, employees enjoy a welcoming environment ideal for families, students, young professionals, and retirees. The area offers abundant recreation, cultural attractions, dining, and entertainment—combining the charm of a small town with the energy and amenities of a thriving university community.

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

Job Responsibilities: As a Systems Engineer, you will provide technical support in planning, designing, installing, maintaining, programming, testing, and implementing systems, integration, endpoint management, and/or database software, hardware, and products to ensure efficient integration and functioning of SDSU’s IT systems. In this role, you’ll be part of a Systems Administration team that delivers high‑level 2nd and 3rd tier support, troubleshoots complex issues, and maintains seamless integration across SDState’s varied technology stack. Your work will directly empower staff, faculty, and students by driving stable, modern, and innovative platforms that support teaching, learning, and digital transformation across campus.

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.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

Knowledge of:

• Endpoint management tools (Microsoft Intune and SCCM, Jamf, etc.)
• Windows Server Roles and Features, including but not limited to Active Directory, DHCP, IIS, RADIUS, Web Server
• Microsoft cloud offerings (Azure, M365)
• VMWare virtualization, server hardware (Cisco UCS, HPE and Dell), and storage technologies (NetApp and Synology)
• Database and database management technologies, including MSSQL
• Linux OS familiarity

Skill & Ability to:

• Problem solve across an integrated, multi-server environment
• Work independently and research/resolve technical issues and solutions

Desired Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field or equivalent experience;
• Minimum of 3 years technical experience;
• Technical certifications in Microsoft or other industry certifications are highly desired.

Other Skills:

• Be well-organized, self-motivated, a team player, able to work unsupervised and possess strong self-management skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communications skills.
• Ability to:
• Communicate directly with peers, managers, and clients while leading development to a complete and successful solution;
• Analyze and maximize technical and operational performance characteristics based upon specified guidelines;
• Organize, manage, and work on multiple projects and priorities.

Comments: This position is classified as a Database Systems Engineer.

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.

[CSA02806P; SE7472; 08307]

For additional information regarding this position or questions about the online application process, please contact Human Resources at 605-688-4128.

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.