Director of Research and Member Resources

Job Description

Reports to: Executive Director

Salary Range: $75,000 - $93,000 annually plus full benefits

Apply with resume to: Sara Rankin, SDML Executive Director at sara@sdmunicipalleague.org

Apply by: Nov. 15, 2026

 

Position Summary

The Director of Research and Member Resources provides support to South Dakota municipalities by answering member questions, conducting research, collecting and analyzing data, and developing practical resources. This individual would assist in developing research that informs legislative priorities, supports lobbying positions, and provides data-driven insights to policymakers, member municipalities and stakeholders. This position helps municipal officials find the information they need to make informed decisions while supporting the South Dakota Municipal League's mission to educate, connect, and advocate for its members.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Member Services

• Serve as a primary contact for municipal officials seeking information and assistance.
• Research and respond to questions regarding municipal operations, state laws, League resources, and best practices.
• Direct complex legal or policy questions to the appropriate team member.
• Track common questions and identify opportunities to develop new member resources.
• Serve as primary staff liaison for assigned affiliate groups, working with group leadership to plan and coordinate annual trainings, meetings, and other activities, while providing ongoing administrative and organizational support.

Research and Data

• Collect and organize municipal data from a variety of sources.
• Research topics affecting municipalities and summarize findings.
• Analyze data to identify trends and provide information that assists municipalities in decision making.
• Prepare reports, spreadsheets, presentations, and other informational materials.

Legislative Support

• Monitor legislation that may impact South Dakota municipalities throughout the legislative session.
• Assist in tracking assigned bills and provide updates on bill status, amendments, and other legislative activity.
• Research legislation and gather background information to assist League staff in evaluating potential impacts on municipalities.
• Provide research and administrative support to League advocacy team during the legislative session.

Resource Development

• Assist in creating and updating guides, templates, publications, and website resources.
• Support League training programs, conferences, and webinars through research and resource development.
• Help maintain the League's library of municipal resources.

Collaboration

• Work with League staff, municipalities, state agencies, and partner organizations to gather information and share resources.
• Attend and assist with SDML events when appropriate.

 

Job Requirements

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
• Strong customer service and communication skills.
• Ability to research topics and communicate information clearly.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to analyze data and prepare reports.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Qualifications
The successful candidate will have:
• An interest in municipal government and the issues affecting South Dakota communities.
• An interest in the South Dakota legislative process and a willingness to learn how legislation impacts municipalities.
• A willingness and ability to learn municipal laws, processes, terminology, and resources.
• Strong research skills and the ability to find, organize, and understand information from a variety of sources.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills and the ability to explain information clearly.
• A service-oriented approach and a desire to help municipal officials find answers and resources.
• A willingness to learn new technology, software, and research tools as needed.
Prior experience with municipal government, state government, the legislative process, research, or data analysis is helpful but not required.