WASHINGTON REPORT

U.S. SENATOR JOHN THUNE

Summer Jobs, Lifelong Values

In South Dakota, we take pride in a job well done. Our work ethic is often instilled in us from a young age – first at home and school, in sports, and eventually in our first jobs. A first job is an important rite of passage that teaches values like teamwork and diligence, as well as the freedom and responsibility that come with earning a paycheck. During the summer, it’s exciting to see so many young South Dakotans working across the state.

Summers in South Dakota offer plenty of opportunities to gain work experience while earning some money. Many of the small businesses, farms, and ranches that are the backbone of our state’s economy offer opportunities for young people to fill job openings, particularly during the summer months. And employers of all kinds need extra sets of hands during the busy travel season.

Growing up in Murdo, at the crossroads of Highway 83 and I-90, my four siblings and I all worked summer jobs related to the travel industry. My sister waited tables at a restaurant, two brothers worked at filling stations, another brother at the Pioneer Auto Show, and I got my start at the Star Family Restaurant, which still operates today. I spent seven summers there, starting out as a busboy, reporting for duty at 5:45 a.m. I later moved to the back of the restaurant to wash dishes before eventually becoming a cook. I value the experience I gained working at the Star Family Restaurant, and it was a great place to earn money for college and to learn lifelong skills.

As a U.S. senator, I’m able to offer young South Dakotans the opportunity to gain a different kind of valuable work experience to start their careers. My office offers paid internships for college students, and I can nominate qualified South Dakota high school juniors for the Senate Page Program. Paid internships are available throughout the year in Washington, D.C., Aberdeen, Rapid City, and Sioux Falls. Interns work closely with constituents, hone their writing, research, and communication skills, while learning firsthand about the federal government and the issues affecting South Dakota. The U.S. Senate Page Program allows high school juniors to see firsthand how the Senate operates while taking classes and assisting in the Senate’s day-to-day operations. Both the internship and page programs operate four sessions throughout the year and application information for both can be found on my website or by calling any of my offices.

First jobs are not often the most glamorous or easiest work, but they instill important values and a work ethic in first-time workers that will serve them throughout their life. I hope all the young South Dakotans working their first jobs this summer have a chance to reflect on some of what they’re learning from their experience and the future opportunities they might present, and I wish them all the best in their work. ■

• Keep current on timely topics.

• Network and share best practices.

• Find inspiration.

• Attend business meetings.

• Discover new products.

• Recharge with socials and activities.

SDML Members

$125/person

Non members

$225/person

Job Opportunities

Apprentice Lineman - City of Wessington Springs, SD. Must have line worker certification or willing to obtain. Job duties also include meter reading and helping other City Departments as needed. Applicants will be required to obtain a CDL and will be subject to DOT testing. Excellent benefit package. To apply submit a cover letter, resume, work history, and three work related references to Linda Willman, Finance Officer. Electronic: wessprsd@venturecomm.net or mail to City Hall PO Box 443, Wessington Springs, SD 57382. For questions, please call 605539-1691. Open until filled. EOE.

City Administrator - City of Oak Park Heights, MN. The City of Oak Park Heights, MN is seeking a City Administrator for this vibrant community. This is a great opportunity to join a well-tenured and established City Council and staff team in continuing to build a community recognized for its excellent quality of life and amenities. Given its suburban environment, the next City Administrator will have great opportunities for continuing to build on the strength of the organization and to further develop and strengthen collaborative relationships with other community and governmental entities. View the full position profile and job description at gmphr.com. Closes Aug. 8. EOE.

Communications Officer - City of Spearfish, SD. Responsible for performing emergency and non-emergency communications functions. Knowledge and level of competency commonly associated with completion of specialized training in the field of work, in addition to basic skills typically associated with a high school education. Sufficient experience to understand the basic principles relevant to the major duties of the position, usually associated with the completion of an apprenticeship/internship or having had a similar position for one to two years. Apply at www. cityofspearfish.com. Starting wage $20.87 plus $2 per hour rotating shift stipend; comprehensive benefits. $4,000 sign-on bonus. Open until filled. EOE.

Deputy Police Officer - City of Tyndall, SD. Responsible for performing routine and professional law enforcement work in a variety of police department activities and to maintain law and order in the City of Tyndall, while under the direct supervision of the Chief of Police and the Mayor. Must meet certain eligibility requirements. Fulltime position, salary DOE, benefit package. Submit resume, request application by calling 605-589-3481; by mail at PO Box 29, Tyndall, SD 57066; or by email at tyndalsd@heartlandpower.org. Open until filled. EOE.

Director of Municipal Electric Services - South Dakota Municipal Electric Association (SDMEA). Responsible for overseeing the administration, programs, and strategic plan of the organization. Other key duties include marketing, event planning, community outreach and education, as well as legislative lobbying during the legislative session and throughout the year. Reports directly to the SDMEA Board of Directors. Salary Range: $55,000-$80,000 DOQ. SD Retirement System participation and other benefits. Full description at sdmunicipalleague.org. Apply with letter of application and resume to rhalgerson@swiftel-bmu.com or Brookings Municipal Utilities, C/O Electric Department Manager, 525 Western Ave, PO Box 588, Brookings, SD 57006. Open until filled.

Dispatcher/Telecommunicator - City of Vermillion, SD. Processes incoming calls from the public on emergency and nonemergency telephone lines; pages emergency response units, and makes response decisions regarding law enforcement, fire, and emergency medical services; handles walk-in requests for services; and operates computer terminals, enters and maintains records through computer aided dispatch programming, and monitors the jail camera system. To learn about the Dispatcher/ Telecommunicator position, please visit the City of Vermillion jobs page: https://www.vermillion.us/Jobs.aspx or if you have questions about the position please call/email Jack Baustian at 605-6777050 or jackb@cityofvermillion.com. Open until filled.

Distribution & Collection Operator I – City of Madison, SD. Responsible for participating in the operation, installation, maintenance, and repair of the wastewater collection and water distribution system. Also jets sewers, flushes hydrants, resolves complaints, collects water samples, as well as cleans and replaces sewer manholes. Knowledge of utility meter and maintenance, area streets and roads, and able to operate digital platforms is required. Skill in problem solving and oral and written communication is also required of the position. See full description at www. cityofmadisonsd.com/Jobs.aspx. Open until filled. EOE.

Energy Services Technician - Missouri River Energy Services, remote position. The Energy Services (ES) Technician provides a variety of non-invasive proactive maintenance testing services to improve energy efficiency, safety, and operational reliability. Performs inspections, analyzes systems to determine current conditions, identifies potential problems, recommends solutions, and prepares reports. Performs diagnostic services utilizing any or all of these disciplines: infrared thermography, motor testing, ultrasonic leak detection, ultrasonic partial discharge testing, ultrasonic arcing/corona/tracking, or oil sampling. Apply at https:// careers.mrenergy.com. Closes Aug. 12.

Finance Officer - City of Gregory, SD. Starting salary is dependent upon qualifications and experience. The minimum starting wage is $22 per hour. SD retirement, individual paid health insurance, along with a generous holiday, vacation and sick leave policy. Minimum qualifications: high school diploma. Preference is given to applicants with a college degree (2 years or more) or equivalent work experience. To apply, visit www.cityofgregory.com to download an application or email info@cityofgregory.com or call 05-835-8270 to request an application. Mail to City of Gregory, PO Box 436, Gregory, SD 57533. Open until filled. EOE.

Fire Marshal - City of Vermillion, SD. Performs a wide variety of technical tasks and functions in support of fire safety inspections of commercial and public buildings; investigates fires, enforces all codes and ordinances; provides fire and safety prevention programs, and provides technical and highly complex support to the Chief of Fire/EMS and Building Official. To learn more and to complete an application, please visit https://www.vermillion.us/ Jobs.aspx. Contact Jack Baustian at 605-677-7050 or jackb@ cityofvermillion.com with questions. Open until filled; first review July 17.

Fleet Mechanic/Equipment Operator - City of Vermillion, SD. Performs skilled work in the maintenance and repair of light and heavy-duty municipally owned automotive machinery and equipment. Also performs general labor and operates equipment for the maintenance and preservation of streets, alleys, public roadways, and other public property. This position requires 24hour emergency call out/on call scheduling availability. To learn more about the Fleet Mechanic/Equipment Operator position and to complete an application, please visit the City of Vermillion's job page: https://www.vermillion.us/Jobs.aspx or if you have questions about the position please call/email Jack Baustian at 605-6777050 or jackb@cityofvermillion.com Open until filled.

General Manager - Brookings Deuel Rural Water System (BDRWS), Toronto, SD. Responsible for the overall affairs of BDRWS, including operations, maintenance, administrative, financial, and construction project functions and reports directly to the Board of Directors. In addition, will act as a spokesperson for BDRWS and represent BDRWS to federal and state agencies, industry and professional associations, financial and lending sources. Self-motivated applicant should have a familiarity with standards, rules, regulations and general business practices associated with the water industry. Salary is dependent upon experience. Competitive benefit package. Apply with resume to PO Box 340, Toronto, SD, 57268 or email to bdrws@itctel.com. Closes Aug. 8. EOE.

Inter Department Operator - City of Custer, SD. Primary purpose of position is to assist in the operation, maintenance and repair of the city's water system, wastewater system, streets, parks and public buildings. Must possess a valid driver's license and reside within 15 miles of the city of Custer. Starting wage DOE and certifications. Full description and applications available at www.custer.govoffice.com. An application must be completed, and resumes may be included with the application, but are not accepted in lieu of an application. Open until filled. EOE.

Landfill Equipment Operator - City of Vermillion, SD. Performing skilled work of average difficulty in the operation of the landfill, performing routine maintenance on equipment, cleaning the landfill and adjacent property as necessary, and performing related work as required. To learn more about the Landfill Equipment Operator position and to complete an application, please visit the City of Vermillion's job page: https://www.vermillion.us/Jobs.aspx or if you have questions about the position please call/email Jack Baustian at 605-677-7050 or jackb@cityofvermillion.com Open until filled.

Maintenance - City of Waubay, SD. Applications are being accepted for a full- or part-time city maintenance worker. Duties include snow removal, repair and maintenance of streets, parks, and cemetery. Monitoring maintenance and record keeping of water

Classifieds

and sewer systems. Must be able to operate heavy equipment. Must hold a valid SD driver's license with CDL endorsement or must obtain within 90 days of employment. State water and sewer certifications, and pesticide license must be obtained within one year of employment. Salary DOE. Open until filled. EOE.

Patrol Officer - City of Pierre, SD. Performs law enforcement & public safety duties as necessary to maintain law & order in the City of Pierre. Must be at least 21 years of age, have a high school diploma or GED, & pass the police entry level examinations including a background investigation. Prior experience in law enforcement is desirable. Certified officer preferred. Comprehensive benefit package. Up to $3,000 hiring bonus. Apply: Human Resources Office, City of Pierre, Box 1253, Pierre, SD 57501, (605)773-7429, www.cityofpierre.org. Open until filled. EOE.

Police Officer (full-time) – City of Avon, SD. Operations of the police department, recorded keeping activities, and patrolling the community to maintain public order. Requirements: High School diploma or GED, Valid SD driver's license with acceptable driving recorded, must exercise independent judgment and use discretion during daily patrol activities, must not have criminal convictions that resulted incarcerations, must be available to work all shifts, Prefer Certified. State certification as a law enforcement officer must be completed within one year of hire date. Wage dependent on experience. Full benefits. To apply, send resume to the City of Avon, PO Box 207, Avon, SD 57315. Questions: call 605-286-3694 or email cityavon@gwtc.net. Open until filled.

Police Officer - City of Blaine, MN. Candidates interested in applying must be currently MN POST licensed, eligible to licensed, or successfully complete the reciprocity exam by December 31, 2023. Additional minimum requirements include: US Citizenship & valid driver's license, currently employed as a peace officer or employed within the last six months with a Police or Sheriff's Department as a peace officer. 2023 Salary Range: $44.77 - $48.92 per hour. Application materials are available at (763) 785-6109 or www.blainemn.gov/jobs. Applications reviewed upon receipt. Candidates who have interviewed with our department within the last 12 months need not reapply. Closes Sept. 30. EOE.

Police Officer - City of Gregory, SD. The City of Gregory has an opening for a police officer. SD certified. A competitive wage with a full benefit package is offered. Applications can be downloaded from the city's website at www.cityofgregory.com or email: info@ cityofgregory.com or contact the Finance Officer at City of Gregory, PO Box 436, Gregory, SD 57533. Phone 605-835-8270. Open until filed. EOE.

Police Officer - City of Martin, SD. Proactive enforcement of State and Federal Laws; protection of life and property, investigation of criminal activity, and report preparation. Applicants must be of good moral character; complete and pass a comprehensive background check; be able to work with little to no supervision; have good communication skills, and must be eligible for certification or currently certified by the SD Law Enforcement Standards and Training Commission. Starting wage: $16.25 per hour/$18.25 with certification (depending on training and experience). Full benefits including health ins, life ins, SD Retirement, holidays, vacation, and sick pay. Please contact Martin Police Department 605-685-6765, City Office 605-685-6525 or email martinpd@gwtc.net. Open until filled.

Police Officer - City of Milbank, SD. Enforce local, state, and federal laws, prevent and suppress crime and accidents, and promote public safety through community policing principles. Responsible for the investigation of criminal cases as assigned. Full-time position. Salary: Grade 14 Non-certified, $20.35; Grade 15 Certified, $21.78 - $25.94/ hourly DOE. Competitive benefits package. Full description and apply at https://www.milbanksd.com/ city-of-milbank/employment. Open until filled.

Police Officer (Full-Time) – City of Parkston, SD. The City of Parkston is a beautiful progressive growing community located in Southeast South Dakota. The population of Parkston was 1,567 at the 2020 Census. Progressive Department in a Growing Community; Great Hunting and Fishing; Good Proximity to Three Large Communities; Good School District; Supportive City Council and Community; Opportunities for Community Involvement. Starting wage of $18/hr. or Negotiable with Pay Raise After Certification. Wellness Center Membership. 10-hour Shift Schedule Working Every Third Weekend. Uniform allowance and Equipment Provided. Email resume to Chief of Police Matthew Van Der Linden at m.vanderlinden@cityofparkston.org or call 605-9287301 for more information. Open until filled.

Police Officer - City of Spearfish, SD. Enforce local, state, and federal laws, prevent, and suppress crime and accidents, and promote public safety through community policing principles. Responsible for the investigation of criminal cases as assigned. Requirements: Knowledge and level of competency commonly associated with completion of specialized training in the field of work, in addition to basic skills typically associated with a high school education; possession of or ability to readily obtain South Dakota Law Enforcement Certification. Full-time position. Starting wage range: $26.72 - $32.55 per hour plus a $2 per hour rotating shift stipend, competitive benefit package. Full description and apply at www.cityofspearfish.com. Open until filled. EOE.

Police Officer (Entry Level/Lateral Entry) - City of Vermillion, SD. Duties include performing varied assignments in motorized patrol, traffic control and enforcement, accident investigation, preliminary and follow-up investigation at crime scenes, and assisting in public safety education programs. To learn more about the police officer position and to complete an application, please visit the City of Vermillion's job page: https://www.vermillion.us/Jobs.aspx or if you have questions about the position please call/email Jack Baustian at 605-677-7050 or jackb@cityofvermillion.com. Open until filled

Public Works Maintenance - City of Philip, SD. Assist in all phases of maintaining the city streets, water distribution and wastewater system. Also assist with the maintenance of public buildings and open spaces including the airport, rubble site, and swimming pool. Knowledge and experience with all types of equipment is desired. Must hold a valid SD driver’s license. State water and wastewater certifications, and pesticide license must be obtained within two years of employment. Full time position. Wage DOE with an excellent benefit package. For more information, contact City Administrator Brittany Smith at 605-859-2175 or cityadmin@ philipsd.us. Job description and applications are available at https://www.philipsd.us. Open until filled. EOE.

Staff Engineer – City of Pierre, SD. Assists City Engineer in providing technical services related to City of Pierre infrastructure projects. Also assists Building Officials in plan review and issuing Building Permits. Duties include project feasibility analysis, municipal infrastructure project design & review, and construction project administration. Excellent communications skills and a clear ability to work with diverse individuals and organizations is essential. Wage offer will be based upon actual education and experience. Comprehensive benefit package. UP TO $3000 HIRING BONUS!

Apply to City of Pierre Human Resources Director, P.O. Box 1253, Pierre SD 57501, (605) 773-7429, www.cityofpierre.org. Open until filled. EOE.

Street Maintenance Tech - City of Milbank, SD. Maintains and repairs streets and alleys in Milbank, including plowing snow. Assists in the ordering of supplies, materials, and stocks for repair and maintenance of items and equipment to continue the operation, repair, and maintenance of streets, department facilities, and equipment as needed. Assists in coordinated activities with other City departments. Assists with mosquito and weed spraying in the summer months, once certified. Full-time position, requiring some weekend and holiday hours. Successful candidate will have a SD driver's license with CDL endorsement. Salary: 13, $19.02 - $22.57/hourly DOE. Application and job description found at: https://www.milbanksd.com/city-of-milbank/employment/. Open until filled.

Transmission Engineer – Missouri River Energy Services, Sioux Falls, SD. Play an active role in ensuring we provide our municipal member utilities with excellent services within areas of transmission planning, transmission rates, planning for a reliable grid that meets our member needs, NERC and compliance related to transmission bulk electric system facilities, interface with other utilities and Regional Transmission Organizations (MISO and SPP), managing MRES transmission facilities including facility ratings, and more. Expectations of ability to handle complex tasks, to perform independent work, taking initiative, and ability to make decisions and recommendations to members and MRES management are commensurate with the grade of the position. Apply at https://careers.mrenergy.com. Closes Aug. 12.

Water Operator – City of Box Elder, SD. Full-time, benefited position responsible for assisting in the installation and repair of water system components, as well as installation, maintenance, repair, and reading of water metering components. Starting wage is $22.85 to $25.22 depending on experience and certifications. The City of Box Elder has a generous paid time off program, 10.5 paid holidays per year and excellent benefits which include employer paid health, dental, and vision for the employee, along with enrollment in the South Dakota retirement plan. To learn more about this position or to apply, please visit the Human Resources page at www.boxelder.us. Open until filled.

Water Superintendent – City of Pierre, SD. Responsible for managing the operations and maintenance of the city’s water treatment plant and distribution system including fiscal operations, construction, maintenance, and administration. Oversees maintenance of distribution system; installation and emergency repair of water mains. Plans, directs, and supervises the operations and maintenance of the water distribution and treatment system. Ensures compliance with local, state, and federal drinking water regulations. Wage offer will be based upon education and experience. Comprehensive benefit package. UP TO $3000 HIRING BONUS! Apply: Laurie Gronlund, HR Director, City of Pierre, PO Box 1253, Pierre SD 57501, (605)773-7429, www.cityofpierre.org. Open until filled. EOE. ■

Find full descriptions, links to applications, more listings, or place an ad online:

SDmunicipalleague.org/classifieds