The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) offers more than just jobs—it offers opportunities to build a meaningful career while making a difference in people’s lives. With a strong focus on diversity, teamwork, and community, SDDOT aims to create a positive environment for employees across South Dakota. This department believes in creating better transportation to build better lives, and it begins with a dedicated team of professionals and interns across the state.
Table of Contents
Overview of the SDDOT
- Full Name: South Dakota Department of Transportation
- Mission: To efficiently provide a safe and effective public transportation system
- Workforce: Nearly 1,000 employees
- Culture: Inclusive, welcoming, team-focused
- Leadership:
- Joel Jundt – Secretary
- Kellie Beck – Director of Finance and Management
- Mike Behm – Director of Planning and Engineering
- Craig Smith – Director of Operations
Why Work at the SDDOT?
- Community Focus: Supports diverse communities across South Dakota
- Workplace Culture: Values respect, belonging, and teamwork
- Professional Growth: Offers training and leadership opportunities
- Statewide Opportunities: Positions and internships available in multiple cities
- Supportive Environment: Encourages collaboration and innovation
Job Opportunities
- Current Openings: A wide range of positions across different departments
- Application Portal: Easy-to-use system for viewing and applying to jobs
- Jobs Email List: Notifications for new postings
- Internships: Available across multiple South Dakota locations
- CDL Opportunities: Financial assistance provided for commercial driver’s license training
Internship Locations
Internship opportunities are available in the following cities:
| City | Region |
|---|---|
| Watertown | Northeast SD |
| Pierre | Central SD |
| Yankton | Southeast SD |
| Custer | Western SD |
| Huron | East Central SD |
| Mitchell | Southeast SD |
| Aberdeen | Northeast SD |
| Mobridge | North Central SD |
| Winner | South Central SD |
| Rapid City | Western SD |
| Brookings | East SD |
| Sioux Falls | Southeast SD |
| Belle Fourche | Northwest SD |
How to Apply
- Account Registration: A tutorial is available for step-by-step guidance
- Support Contact:
- Name: Kimberly Smith
- Phone: 605-951-9114
- Email: kimberly.smith@state.sd.us
Employee Testimonials
- Kellie Beck – “Every employee makes a difference. We work together, align our objectives, and deliver.”
- Mike Behm – “Be part of an organization that strives for innovative solutions.”
- Craig Smith – “The SDDOT team is ready to confront any weather-related challenge and always works to improve.”
Career Development Programs
- CDL Training:
- Goal: Help employees obtain Commercial Driver’s Licenses
- Support: Financial assistance for training expenses
- Material: Flyers and resources are available for more details
- Housing Support:
- Resource: SDDOT Housing Resource Packet
- Purpose: Assist employees and interns in finding suitable accommodation
Divisions of the SDDOT
| Division | Focus Area |
|---|---|
| Finance and Management | Budget planning, employee resources, and department management |
| Planning and Engineering | Infrastructure design, planning, and technology implementation |
| Operations | Maintenance, logistics, and weather-related response |
Benefits of Working at SDDOT
- Job Security: Positions are backed by the state government
- Skill Development: On-the-job training and development programs
- Community Impact: Employees contribute to public safety and connectivity
- Employee Value: Respect, inclusion, and recognition are core values
- Leadership Opportunities: Encouragement to grow within the organization
Contact for General Information
- Website: Visit the SDDOT website to view all job openings and resources
- Interactive Map: Learn more about each location by clicking on the provided map
- Email Notifications: Stay updated by joining the official job email list
Tips for a Successful Application
- Create a Profile: Set up your account early to avoid delays
- Check Qualifications: Read job descriptions thoroughly
- Prepare Documents: Keep your resume and references ready
- Use Support: Contact Kimberly Smith for help if needed
- Follow Up: Monitor your email for updates after applying
In Summary
A career at the South Dakota Department of Transportation offers more than just a paycheck. It offers a path to personal growth, a chance to make a lasting impact on communities, and a welcoming team that values diversity and inclusion. Whether starting as an intern or stepping into a leadership role, every employee at the SDDOT contributes to making South Dakota a better-connected and safer place.
What You Need to Know
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Do I need experience for internships? | No. Internships are designed for students or recent graduates with little experience |
| Is training provided? | Yes. On-the-job and specialized training (including CDL training) is available |
| Are housing resources available? | Yes. A housing packet is provided to help with relocation or temporary housing |
| How do I stay informed about jobs? | Join the SDDOT job email list to get regular updates |
| Who can help with applications? | Kimberly Smith is the main contact for application support |
