About the Role
The Community Liaison supports the Project Director/Principal Investigator in managing all aspects of the
USDA Extension Program. He/She helps ensure that the project follows U.S. Dept. of Agriculture relevant laws and regulations. Using the approved grant as a guideline, works to achieve the project’s goals, objectives, and outcomes within the scheduled timeframe.
[NOTE: This is a grant-funded position, fully funded through August 30, 2026. Employment after this date is not guaranteed.]
Requirements
Under the supervision of the Director for 1994 Tribal College & Universities (TCUs) Land Grant programs, the Community Liaison will be responsible for the following duties:
Manage the community garden activities including organizing and meeting with community residents
to select the garden spot and design the garden layout
Assigns space in the community garden to individuals or families.
Provides advice on edible, botanical and ornamental plants having best results in the particular community, utilizing local gardeners and traditional knowledge.
Invites elders to share traditional knowledge of medicinal and edible plants that can be grown from seeds in a garden or around houses to improve landscaping (sage, mints, cone flowers, sweet grass, cacti, yucca, and others unique to the community’s location).
Meets monthly with the Program Director to report progress, assess challenges/successes, and problem-solve issues that hinder progress.
Attends monthly Leadership Workshop.
Responsible for all program equipment and tools, including community tractor and gardening utensils purchased through the Extension Program.
Qualifications & Experience:
Associate Degree in Business, Environmental Science, Administrative Assistance, or Education or 3-5 years’ experience in program management and/or grant management.
Excellent analytical, organizational, and management skills.
Excellent interpersonal skills, including strong verbal and written communication skills.
Ability to use Microsoft Office programs.
Have a history of excellent work habits and ethics.
Should possess a strong background in botany and gardening.
The successful candidate must have knowledge of power tools and lawn and garden equipment.
Must have the ability to communicate well with others and be self-motivated to organize and implement program activities in a timely manner.
Should possess above average oral and writing skills.
Applicant must possess cultural competencies and experience in working within the local community or with other Native American people, Tribal organizations, or educational entities within the reservation boundaries.
Time and attendance must be maintained consistently. Applicant must be able to work in a team-oriented department and easily engage with program staff and community residents.
About the Company
Sinte Gleska University (SGU) is a tribally controlled, accredited institution located on the Rosebud Indian Reservation in Mission, South Dakota. Founded to serve the Sicangu Lakota Nation, SGU is dedicated to providing accessible, culturally grounded higher education that empowers students, families, and communities.
Rooted in the Lakota philosophy of Wolakota—living in harmony and balance—SGU integrates academic excellence with Indigenous knowledge, language, and values. The University offers a range of associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degree programs designed to prepare students for meaningful careers, leadership, and lifelong learning.
As a community-focused institution, SGU plays a vital role in strengthening tribal sovereignty, supporting economic development, and preserving Lakota culture for future generations. Faculty and staff are committed to fostering a supportive, inclusive learning environment that reflects both traditional teachings and modern educational practices.
Joining SGU means becoming part of a mission-driven organization dedicated to building a healthy, resilient tribal nation through education, self-determination, and visionary leadership.