Server​/Database Administrator

SDState is seeking a skilled System Engineer specializing in SQL and web administration 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.

As a Systems Engineer, you will be the go-to expert for SDState’s mission critical database and web application ecosystem. You’ll lead the implementation, optimization, and ongoing support of our enterprise SQL and web service environments, ensuring reliability, performance, and security across the university. 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 diverse 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.

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.

• Specific familiarity with Microsoft SQL Clusters;
• Microsoft environment including Active Directory and Group policy;
• VMWare virtualization, server hardware (Cisco UCS, HPE and Dell), and storage technologies (Net App).

• Maintain and architect a Web Services platform;
• Create and implement enhancements to existing Web Services design;
• Monitor and update web software for both application and security updates;
• Installing and maintaining web server hardware and software;
• Enhance the scalability and performance of existing database architecture;
• Perform database maintenance, migration, and upgrading of hardware and software;
• Working knowledge of Microsoft MS SQL administration;
• Performing maintenance of the SharePoint platform and servers;
• Demonstrate problem solving ability across an integrated, multi-server environment;
• Work independently and research/resolve technical issues and solutions.

• 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.

• Must be well-organized, self‑motivated, a team player, able to work unsupervised and possess strong self‑management skills.
• Must possess excellent verbal and written communications skills.
• Ability to Communicate directly with peers,…