Communications Associate Jobs in South Dakota
Communications associate jobs in South Dakota are steadily active, with consistent demand from government agencies, healthcare systems, and higher education institutions at both entry and mid-career levels. The largest concentrations of openings are in Sioux Falls, Rapid City, and Pierre, where employers like Sanford Health, Avera Health, and the State of South Dakota regularly hire for communications and public affairs roles. The most in-demand specialties include digital content, media relations, and internal communications. Scan the live roles below and apply to whichever ones fit.
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Showing 5 of 9+ Communications Associate jobs
Description
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work — and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.As one of the largest global security companies in the world, Northrop Grumman is proud to help our nation’s military personnel navigate their next chapter into civilian careers. Approximately 20% of Northrop Grumman’s 100,000 employees self-identify as veterans, and more than 2,000 are reservists.
The Northrop Grumman SkillBridge Program is an approved SkillBridge Program under Dept. of Defense Instruction 1322.29. The program is an opportunity for service members preparing for civilian careers to gain valuable civilian work experience during their last 6 months of service, for up to 180 days. The SkillBridge Program is open to all ranks and experience levels. SkillBridge participants are not eligible for compensation from Northrop Grumman, as they continue to receive military compensation and benefits as active-duty service members.
Responsibilities for SkillBridge Program participation are:
Northrop Grumman Corporation (NGC) has developed the Northrop Grumman – SkillBridge Program (SkillBridge) utilizing the DoDI guidance for SkillBridge. Through this program, the service-member will work on site with their host company, gaining experience in an entry to mid-level career path. The service member will be on the job training supporting a work schedule equivalent to 40hrs per week. Outlined below are the Goals, Objectives, and Outcomes for the program.
Goals – Provide separating service-members with job skills training in a professional setting during the final phase of their military service. This program is specifically designed to offer hands-on experience that result in the potential to convert to a full-time opportunity as the conclusion of the training. Participants will serve as a pipeline for high-speed, motivated military candidates into NGC.
Objectives - Service Members who complete the SkillBridge program will be highly trained, capable, future employees that align to the specific needs of the organization and are prepared to meet the NG mission “Defining Possible” on Day 1. This program provides comprehensive hands-on experience including professional development, networking with leadership, and training specifically focused on NG leadership principles, company history, customer/stakeholder engagement, product and service overview, and core job responsibilities.
Outcome – Offer service-members preparing for civilian careers a rewarding opportunity to join the Northrop Grumman team.
SkillBridge Eligibility:
- Has served at least 180 days on active duty
- Is within 12 months of separation or retirement
- Will receive an honorable discharge
- Has taken any service TAPS/TGPS
- Has attended or participated in an ethics brief within the last 12 months
- Received Unit Commander (first O-4/Field Grade commander in chain of command) written authorization and approval to participate in SkillBridge Program prior to start of internship.
Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems has opening for an Network and Principal Network Communications Engineer to join our team of qualified, diverse individuals within our Ground Systems Team. This role is in Ellsworth, SD.
Qualified candidates will apply technical knowledge and will have the opportunity to work on multiple tasks including but not limited to the following:
Essential Functions:
- Provide real time support for network Strike Ground Systems during flight operations and maintenance, addressing any issues related to communications and networking to include fault isolation, remediation, and resolution.
- Account for, control, and deploy equipment.
- Work with partners to resolve connectivity issues and data movement issues between Ground Systems and external networks.
- Perform field integration, troubleshooting, and repair of communications systems in military flight operations environment, including operations on flightline, in a hangar, and in command-and-control centers.
- Adherence to checklists and procedures to ensure repeated success and providing redlines to procedures when necessary.
- Work with a team to provide 24/7 on-site support for network operations of the Ground Communications Interface.
- Provide local network management support through updates, configurations, security patches, drawings, and feedback to the Responsible Engineers (REs).
- Communicate complex technical issues to local support, Main Operation Bases (MOBs), and Responsible Engineers (REs).
- Support and lead air crew engagement for proper techniques in solving complex analysis of technical problems that arise during operations.
- Assist with trend analysis as needed for Responsible Engineers (REs).
- Perform/support review and analysis of supplier design data and definition of functional test requirements including acceptance, qualification, and system integration.
- Take responsibility for the testing, maintenance, and integration of Comms and Networks equipment required to support ground and flight operations.
- Work with system admins, maintainers, and onsite personnel to troubleshoot and repair any internal operational issues.
Basic Qualifications:
- Network Communications Engineer - Bachelor’s degree and 2 years of experience, or Master’s degree and 0 years of experience or 6 years’ experience in lieu of degree in Information Technology/Systems, Cybersecurity/Information Security, Network/System Administration, Computer/ Data Science/Analytics, or Computer/Software/Electrical Engineering.
- Principal Network Communications Engineer - Bachelor’s degree and 5 years of experience, or Master’s degree and 3 years of experience or 9 years’ experience in lieu of degree in Information Technology/Systems, Cybersecurity/Information Security, Network/System Administration, Computer/ Data Science/Analytics, or Computer/Software/Electrical Engineering;
- Ability to be granted and maintain a DoD SECRET clearance. May be required to attain TOP SECRET clearance in the future.
- The ability to obtain Special Access Programs (SAP) within a period of time as determined by program and/or customer requirements, as a condition of continued employment.
- Current CompTIA Security Plus (or higher) certification.
- Experience designing and maintaining LAN, WAN, and Cloud based networks.
- Experience with configuring, installing, and maintaining network hardware.
- Experience configuring, installing, and maintaining encryption devices (TACLANES).
- Experience with STIG compliance.
- Experience in the use of network analysis tools (i.e. WireShark, Opnet, SolarWinds, etc.).
- Experience with Microsoft Office, Visio, Project, PowerPoint, and Excel.
- Ability to lift equipment weighing up to 40 pounds.
- Ability to work after hours and weekends as needed.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with remote cloud architecture.
- Experience working in an Air Force flightline environment
- Experience working with Air Force flight communications systems
- Active DoD SECRET or TOP SECRET clearance.
- Active Specific Special Access Program access.
#MPR, #ASMT
Primary Level Salary Range: $105,800.00 - $158,600.00 Secondary Level Salary Range: $0.00 - $0.00 The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business. The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates. Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.Description
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work — and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.As one of the largest global security companies in the world, Northrop Grumman is proud to help our nation’s military personnel navigate their next chapter into civilian careers. Approximately 20% of Northrop Grumman’s 100,000 employees self-identify as veterans, and more than 2,000 are reservists.
The Northrop Grumman SkillBridge Program is an approved SkillBridge Program under Dept. of Defense Instruction 1322.29. The program is an opportunity for service members preparing for civilian careers to gain valuable civilian work experience during their last 6 months of service, for up to 180 days. The SkillBridge Program is open to all ranks and experience levels. SkillBridge participants are not eligible for compensation from Northrop Grumman, as they continue to receive military compensation and benefits as active-duty service members.
Responsibilities for SkillBridge Program participation are:
Northrop Grumman Corporation (NGC) has developed the Northrop Grumman – SkillBridge Program (SkillBridge) utilizing the DoDI guidance for SkillBridge. Through this program, the service-member will work on site with their host company, gaining experience in an entry to mid-level career path. The service member will be on the job training supporting a work schedule equivalent to 40hrs per week. Outlined below are the Goals, Objectives, and Outcomes for the program.
Goals – Provide separating service-members with job skills training in a professional setting during the final phase of their military service. This program is specifically designed to offer hands-on experience that result in the potential to convert to a full-time opportunity as the conclusion of the training. Participants will serve as a pipeline for high-speed, motivated military candidates into NGC.
Objectives - Service Members who complete the SkillBridge program will be highly trained, capable, future employees that align to the specific needs of the organization and are prepared to meet the NG mission “Defining Possible” on Day 1. This program provides comprehensive hands-on experience including professional development, networking with leadership, and training specifically focused on NG leadership principles, company history, customer/stakeholder engagement, product and service overview, and core job responsibilities.
Outcome – Offer service-members preparing for civilian careers a rewarding opportunity to join the Northrop Grumman team.
SkillBridge Eligibility:
- Has served at least 180 days on active duty
- Is within 12 months of separation or retirement
- Will receive an honorable discharge
- Has taken any service TAPS/TGPS
- Has attended or participated in an ethics brief within the last 12 months
- Received Unit Commander (first O-4/Field Grade commander in chain of command) written authorization and approval to participate in SkillBridge Program prior to start of internship.
Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems has opening for an Network and Principal Network Communications Engineer to join our team of qualified, diverse individuals within our Ground Systems Team. This role is in Ellsworth, SD.
Qualified candidates will apply technical knowledge and will have the opportunity to work on multiple tasks including but not limited to the following:
Essential Functions:
- Provide real time support for network Strike Ground Systems during flight operations and maintenance, addressing any issues related to communications and networking to include fault isolation, remediation, and resolution.
- Account for, control, and deploy equipment.
- Work with partners to resolve connectivity issues and data movement issues between Ground Systems and external networks.
- Perform field integration, troubleshooting, and repair of communications systems in military flight operations environment, including operations on flightline, in a hangar, and in command-and-control centers.
- Adherence to checklists and procedures to ensure repeated success and providing redlines to procedures when necessary.
- Work with a team to provide 24/7 on-site support for network operations of the Ground Communications Interface.
- Provide local network management support through updates, configurations, security patches, drawings, and feedback to the Responsible Engineers (REs).
- Communicate complex technical issues to local support, Main Operation Bases (MOBs), and Responsible Engineers (REs).
- Support and lead air crew engagement for proper techniques in solving complex analysis of technical problems that arise during operations.
- Assist with trend analysis as needed for Responsible Engineers (REs).
- Perform/support review and analysis of supplier design data and definition of functional test requirements including acceptance, qualification, and system integration.
- Take responsibility for the testing, maintenance, and integration of Comms and Networks equipment required to support ground and flight operations.
- Work with system admins, maintainers, and onsite personnel to troubleshoot and repair any internal operational issues.
Basic Qualifications:
- Network Communications Engineer - Bachelor’s degree and 2 years of experience, or Master’s degree and 0 years of experience or 6 years’ experience in lieu of degree in Information Technology/Systems, Cybersecurity/Information Security, Network/System Administration, Computer/ Data Science/Analytics, or Computer/Software/Electrical Engineering.
- Principal Network Communications Engineer - Bachelor’s degree and 5 years of experience, or Master’s degree and 3 years of experience or 9 years’ experience in lieu of degree in Information Technology/Systems, Cybersecurity/Information Security, Network/System Administration, Computer/ Data Science/Analytics, or Computer/Software/Electrical Engineering;
- Ability to be granted and maintain a DoD SECRET clearance. May be required to attain TOP SECRET clearance in the future.
- The ability to obtain Special Access Programs (SAP) within a period of time as determined by program and/or customer requirements, as a condition of continued employment.
- Current CompTIA Security Plus (or higher) certification.
- Experience designing and maintaining LAN, WAN, and Cloud based networks.
- Experience with configuring, installing, and maintaining network hardware.
- Experience configuring, installing, and maintaining encryption devices (TACLANES).
- Experience with STIG compliance.
- Experience in the use of network analysis tools (i.e. WireShark, Opnet, SolarWinds, etc.).
- Experience with Microsoft Office, Visio, Project, PowerPoint, and Excel.
- Ability to lift equipment weighing up to 40 pounds.
- Ability to work after hours and weekends as needed.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with remote cloud architecture.
- Experience working in an Air Force flightline environment
- Experience working with Air Force flight communications systems
- Active DoD SECRET or TOP SECRET clearance.
- Active Specific Special Access Program access.
#MPR, #ASMT
Primary Level Salary Range: $105,800.00 - $158,600.00 Secondary Level Salary Range: $0.00 - $0.00 The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business. The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates. Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.See All 9 Communications Associate Jobs in South Dakota
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Find Communications Associate JobsCommunications Associate Jobs by City in South Dakota
Where South Dakota roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Communications Associate Job Market in South Dakota
A snapshot from current South Dakota openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
Top Industries Hiring
- Healthcare & Medical Services
- Education
What South Dakota Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in communications associate jobs across South Dakota.
- Bachelor's degree in communications, public relations, journalism, or a closely related field
- Demonstrated experience drafting press releases, newsletters, or digital content for an organization
- Proficiency with content management systems, email marketing platforms, or social media tools
- Strong written and verbal communication skills with attention to AP Style guidelines
- Ability to coordinate with multiple internal teams and external media contacts
- Experience supporting media relations, community outreach, or public affairs campaigns
Communications Associate Jobs in South Dakota: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a communications associate in South Dakota?
A bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, public relations, or marketing is the standard entry point for communications associate roles in South Dakota. The role carries no state-issued license or certification requirement. Most South Dakota employers, including state agencies and healthcare systems, look for candidates with relevant coursework, internship experience, and a writing portfolio. Applying to entry-level openings at institutions like Sanford Health, Avera Health, or state government offices is a practical starting path.
Which companies hire communications associates in South Dakota?
Employers hiring communications associates in South Dakota right now include CVS Health, Northrop Grumman, and Sanford Health, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of July 2026. South Dakota's largest healthcare systems, state agencies, and public universities are among the most consistent sources of communications associate openings in the state.
Which South Dakota cities have the most communications associate jobs?
South Dakota, Sioux Falls, and Pierre have the most communications associate openings in South Dakota. Sioux Falls drives the largest share of demand as the state's commercial and healthcare hub, home to major employers like Sanford Health and Avera, while Pierre's concentration of state government agencies generates steady public affairs and communications roles, and Rapid City's tourism, healthcare, and tribal government sectors contribute additional openings.
Are there remote communications associate jobs in South Dakota?
Yes, and more than many fields, since communications work is largely desk-based and document-driven. About 33% of communications associate openings tied to South Dakota are remote or hybrid as of July 2026, reflecting a broader shift in how organizations structure their communications teams. Content creation, social media management, and internal communications roles tend to be the most remote-compatible parts of the work.
How can I get hired as a communications associate in South Dakota with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is applying to communications coordinator or communications assistant openings at South Dakota's large healthcare systems, state agencies, or public universities, which routinely hire candidates with internship experience but limited full-time history. Building a portfolio of writing samples through campus publications, volunteer work with nonprofits, or community organizations strengthens an application considerably. Adjacent roles in marketing, administrative communications, or public affairs support at South Dakota employers like the State of South Dakota or the University of South Dakota can also open the door.
Where can I find and apply to communications associate jobs in South Dakota?
You can find and apply to communications associate jobs in South Dakota on Migrate Mate, which lists current openings in the state. Search the available roles, find the ones that match your background and location, and apply directly to the ones that fit.
See All 9 Communications Associate Jobs in South Dakota
Find roles in South Dakota that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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