Jackrabbit Central, the official university bookstore on the campus of South Dakota State University (SDState), is offering an exciting career opportunity as a Retail Operations Manager. We’re seeking a creative and innovative professional to partner with the Director in managing all retail operations across three Jackrabbit Central locations. From textbooks and technology to Jackrabbit gear and gifts, our stores serve as a go-to destination for students, alumni, and fans. The ideal candidate brings strong leadership, a customer-first mindset, and a passion for creating a vibrant and engaging retail experience. This full-time, 12-month, benefits-eligible position is based in Brookings, South Dakota.

South Dakota State University 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. Jackrabbit Central, located within the University Student Union, sells books, textbooks and school supplies along with a wide variety of SDState and Jackrabbit apparel and merchandise.

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

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

The Retail Operations Manager will work closely with the Director to manage all retail and operational components across three Jackrabbit Central locations: the Campus Store, Downtown Store, and Dykhouse Stadium Store. Key responsibilities include:

• Assisting with the oversight of financial transactions and supporting the Director in meeting financial goals.
• Supervising front-end operations of high-volume retail stores, including setting goals, determining staffing levels, and providing training and supervision to ensure excellent customer service.
• Managing relationships with vendors to design and order merchandise such as apparel and novelty items.
• Establishing pricing schedules and ensuring appropriate inventory levels.
• Planning promotions and coordinating merchandising displays.
• Overseeing the receiving and stocking of merchandise.
• Supervising the Course Materials Specialist and Customer Service Supervisor to maintain high-quality customer service and ensure the availability of academic materials in appropriate quantity and quality.

SALARY RANGE:

The minimum starting salary for this position is $61,000 with education and experience to be considered.  

 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. 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Economics, Consumer Affairs or related field completed by start date.
• At least one year of retail experience or management experience with a focus on financial accountability and customer service.
• Previous supervision experience.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and accomplish multiple tasks simultaneously with the ability to work independently.
• Ability to effectively communicate and present information to customers, peers and all levels of management.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
• Ability to delegate and follow through on projects in a timely manner.
• Experience with education materials, sourcing and sales.
• Valid drivers license or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience with a Prism RBS Point of Sale (POS) and inventory control systems.
• Background working in a university store environment.
• Experience with open-to-buy inventory management strategy.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: 

This position will close on May 5, 2025.

APPLICATION PROCESS:

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.  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. 

For questions on the position, contact Derek Peterson at Derek.Peterson@sdstate.edu or 605-688-4529.

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.