Program Assistant I (Army Lodging Manager)

The South Dakota Army National Guard, a vital component of the Department of the Military, is dedicated to supporting state and national defense with excellence and professionalism. The South Dakota Army National Guard operates under the Department of the Military and is responsible for providing trained and ready forces to support national security and defense missions. Serving the citizens of South Dakota, the Guard plays a crucial role in emergency response, community support, and military operations. The organization values strong leadership, community involvement, and a commitment to service that ensures safety and preparedness across the state.

This particular opportunity is for a Part-Time Billeting Office Coordinator position within the 196th Regimental Training Institute (RTI) located at the South Dakota Army National Guard Armory in Sioux Falls, SD. This role is essential to the smooth operation of lodging services for service members, federal employees, and authorized guests, helping to maintain a professional and customer-focused environment. It offers 30 hours per week with a stable Monday through Friday schedule from 10:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with an hourly wage range between $21.41 and $26.75, depending on experience.

The Billeting Office Coordinator will serve as the primary contact for lodging reservations, working diligently to ensure high-quality lodging operations. This individual will handle customer service inquiries, resolve complaints professionally, and manage communications such as emails and voicemails promptly to support the mission of the South Dakota National Guard effectively. Occasionally, this role may require multi-day travel to coordinate lodging logistics, attend meetings, or engage in professional development activities.

This position operates primarily within a professional office environment, offering a structured and dependable work schedule. Candidates must possess strong organizational and multitasking skills while demonstrating excellent communication abilities. Knowledge of Microsoft Office applications including Word, Excel, Teams, and Outlook, as well as Adobe software and basic accounting and financial principles, is highly preferred. The ability to manage customer reservations, maintain orderly records, and solve problems efficiently is vital.

Prospective employees will undergo a National Security Check to obtain a Common Access Card, granting access to state and federal computer systems. Following this, a background investigation will be required, although an arrest or conviction record does not necessarily bar employment. The ideal candidate will have a bachelor’s degree or experience in fields such as Accounting, Business Management, Hotel Management, or Marketing and a strong customer service orientation.

Additional requirements include submitting a cover letter and resume and consideration of Veterans' Preference according to relevant state rules. Applicants possessing a National Career Readiness Certificate are encouraged to submit it, though it is not mandatory. The employer follows strict procedures regarding employment eligibility verification, including participation in the E-Verify program.

The State of South Dakota offers competitive benefits for this role, including premium employee health insurance, dental, vision, generous paid time off including eleven paid holidays, sick leave accrual, and participation in Class A retirement under the South Dakota Retirement System (SDRS). This role represents an excellent opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the military community in a supportive and rewarding environment with an emphasis on service, professionalism, and development.