Conservation Foreman

The State of South Dakota is hiring a Conservation Foreman in Mitchell, SD, responsible for leading field crews to implement land management plans. Key tasks include habitat development, equipment operation, and project management. Candidates must have strong organizational skills, a valid driver's license, and relevant certifications. Benefits include health insurance, paid holidays, and retirement options. The salary ranges from $52,000 to $72,000 annually.
Agency: Game Fish & Parks | Location: Mitchell, SD | Salary: minimum $20.89, depending on qualifications | Pay Grade: G | Closing Date: 06/22/2026

Job Summary Conservation Foreman responsible for implementing management plans on Game Production Areas located in southeastern South Dakota by leading crews in the field to implement land management techniques.

Key Responsibilities Lead and coordinate field crews in developing new habitat and improving existing wildlife habitat. Plant and maintain shelterbelts, native grass and forb mixes, food plots, and other native vegetation. Build fences, spray noxious weeds, post boundaries, and perform general Game Production Area maintenance. Operate and maintain equipment such as tractors, trailers, drills, UTVs, and other agricultural implements. Track work progress, maintain inventories of materials and supplies, and ensure completion of management plans. Licenses & Certifications Valid driver’s license required; Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) required within 120 days of hire. Completion of a certified ATV course and an online UTV safety course. South Dakota Department of Agriculture Commercial Pesticide Applicator License. The Ideal Candidate Will Have A high degree of professional ethics and integrity. Strong organizational and prioritization skills with a positive attitude. Ability to tackle problems and think quickly to find innovative solutions. Effective, outgoing communication skills and a commitment to superior service. Additionally, experience in managing development projects, recruiting and training crew members, developing work schedules, monitoring progress, and maintaining equipment is required.

Knowledge Of Human resources management practices for interviewing, training, and evaluating temporary employees. Purchasing processes, including ordering from contracts, contacting vendors for bids, writing specifications, and preparing requisitions. Facility maintenance skills such as plumbing, electrical repair, carpentry, and painting. Farming and harvesting methods and growing seasons. Seed, fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides. Farm tractors, implements, and their functions. Soils, tree species, diseases and pests, tree storage, planting procedures, and maintenance. Groundskeeping methods, equipment, and maintenance. Noxious weeds and spray application methods. Diagnostic and repair methods for vehicles and equipment. Welding and safe-operating guidelines. Timber harvesting and fence building techniques. Ability To Lead, organize, and prioritize projects on long‑ and short‑term basis and calculate time, equipment, and manpower needs. Provide clear work direction to others. Delegate work based on employee capabilities. Handle chemicals safely. Diagnose vehicle and equipment malfunctions and determine cost‑effective resolution. Communicate effectively to resolve conflicts with staff, the public, and landowners. Benefits $0 premium employee health insurance option. Eleven paid holidays. Generous vacation and sick leave accrual. Dental, vision, and other insurance options. Class A retirement under SDRS. Veterans’ Preference per ARSD 55:10:02:08. This position is a member of Class A retirement under SDRS.

"An Equal Opportunity Employer"

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Salary: USD 52000 - 72000 per year