Top 10 Industries in South Dakota for Job Hunters
If you think moving to South Dakotayou will find a country with a growing economy and various job opportunities. South Dakota’s major industries include agriculture, tourism, manufacturing, and more, providing a wide variety of jobs. That you are browsing Real estate in Sioux Falls or Homes in Rapid Citygovernment industries provide a solid foundation for professional growth. Home buyers and employers benefit from South Dakota’s combination of job opportunities and affordable living. Read on to explore South Dakota’s top industries and why they might be right for your next move.
South Dakota at a glance: Home prices, income, and employment
Top employers in South Dakota
- Avera Health: 20,000 workers
- Walmart: 5,884 workers
- Memorial Life: 5,100 workers
- Ellsworth Air Force Base: 4,300 workers
- Sanford Health: 4,000 workers
10 largest industries in South Dakota
1. Agriculture
Major Employers: IMBONGI (Sioux Falls), Agtegra Cooperative (Aberdeen), Valley Queen Cheese (Milbank)
Building 13% of the state’s GDPAgriculture is the backbone of South Dakota’s economy, employing thousands in all areas of farming, ranching, and food production. POET offers roles in renewable energy, while Agtegra focuses on crop marketing and farm supply operations. Valley Queen Cheese offers dairy and food production opportunities. South Dakota’s open spaces and supportive agricultural community attract professionals interested in farming and sustainable practices. The state is ideal for people looking for work-life balance in rural and urban areas.
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2. Tourism
Major Employers: Mount Rushmore National Memorial (Keystone), Crazy Horse Memorial (Custer), Deadwood Gaming Association (Deadwood)
Tourism thrives because of South Dakota’s iconic landmarks and natural beauty, which offer positions in tourism, marketing, and park management. Crazy Horse Memorial employs cultural experts, while the Deadwood Gaming Association supports roles in casino operations and entertainment. The industry attracts job seekers who value healthy and dynamic workplaces. Nearby cities and attractions, such as Rapid City and Custer, provide affordable housing options and access to amazing outdoor activities.
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3. Productivity
Major Employers: Trail King Industries (Mitchell), Rosenbauer America (Lyons), Daktronics (Brookings)
South Dakota’s manufacturing sector includes the production of machinery, technology, and specialty vehicles. Trail King offers roles in engineering and assembly, while Daktronics specializes in electronic displays. Rosenbauer America supports positions in the manufacture of custom fire equipment. Homebuyers and renters in cities like Mitchell and Brookings enjoy easy access to these tenants and an excellent quality of life.
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4. Health care
Major Employers: Sanford Health (Sioux Falls), Avera Health (Sioux Falls), Monument Health (Rapid City)
The healthcare field offers many opportunities, from nursing to management roles. Sanford Health and Avera Health are two of the largest employers in the state, providing comprehensive medical services. Monument Health also provides services in patient care, research, and hospital management. South Dakota’s population growth and aging population to ensure the continued demand for health workers
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5. Education
Major Employers: South Dakota State University (Brookings), University of South Dakota (Vermillion), Black Hills State University (Spearfish)
South Dakota’s education sector includes postsecondary institutions and public school systems. South Dakota State University and Black Hills State University employ faculty, researchers, and support staff. The University of South Dakota also offers a variety of opportunities in education and administration. The state values education, creating an environment that cares for students and teachers alike.
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6. Financial services
Major Employers: First Premier Bank (Sioux Falls), Great Western Bank (Sioux Falls), Citi (locations in Sioux Falls)
Financial services are booming in South Dakota, driven by the banking, credit processing, and insurance industries. First Premier Bank and Citi offer positions in finance, technology, and customer service. The industry benefits from the government’s business-friendly tax policies, attracting large companies. Professionals in this field enjoy job stability and competitive wages, with housing opportunities in and around Sioux Falls.
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7. Energy and resources
Major Employers: Basin Electric Power Cooperative (locations in South Dakota), Black Hills Energy (Rapid City), Otter Tail Power Company (locations in South Dakota)
South Dakota’s energy sector includes renewable energy, traditional utilities, and infrastructure maintenance. Actually, 77% of the state’s electricity made from renewable resources. Black Hills Energy offers roles in energy distribution and sustainability systems. Basin Electric Power Cooperative offers opportunities in operations and engineering. The state’s focus on renewable resources is attracting environmentally conscious professionals. Residents close to major employers enjoy a balance of urban and rural living.
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8. Selling and trading
Major Employers: Scheels (locations in South Dakota), Menards (locations in South Dakota), Walmart (locations in South Dakota)
In addition to adding over $4 billion in the state’s GDPThe retail and commercial industry supports a wide variety of jobs, from management to customer service. Scheels and Menards provide roles in retail and distribution operations. Walmart is a large employer with opportunities nationwide. South Dakota’s vibrant communities and shopping areas ensure a continued need for sales professionals. Housing options near shopping centers make for a short commute for homeowners and renters in this area.
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9. Transportation and logistics
Major Employers: Sioux Falls Airport (Sioux Falls), CHS Inc. (locations in South Dakota), FedEx (locations in South Dakota)
Transportation and logistics are important to South Dakota’s economy, with jobs in transportation, aviation, and logistics. Sioux Falls Airport offers roles in operations and customer service. CHS Inc. employs logistics and distribution specialists in all its locations. Industrial growth provides stability to the workforce and supports the state’s agricultural and manufacturing industries. Residents benefit from a well-connected transport network and thriving local economies.
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10. Technology and innovation
Major Employers: Raven Industries (Sioux Falls), SAB Biotherapeutics (Sioux Falls location), RESPEC (Rapid City)
Technology is an emerging industry in South Dakotawith research, development, and engineering functions. More than a fifth of the state’s employment is in fields related to science or technology. Raven Industries focuses on precision agriculture and proprietary solutions, while SAB Biotherapeutics focuses on biotech development. RESPEC offers engineering and data analysis roles. Cities like Sioux Falls and Rapid City offer strong job markets and quality lifestyles.
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