Brookings, South Dakota is set for a major economic boost as Daktronics, the global leader in LED display technology, announced a massive $180 million expansion that will bring 425 new jobs to the community over the next two years. The expansion includes a new 300,000 square-foot advanced manufacturing facility adjacent to its existing campus, positioning the company to meet surging demand for digital scoreboards, architectural displays, and transportation solutions used worldwide.

What Jobs Are Being Created?

The 425 new positions at Daktronics will span multiple skill levels and departments, offering opportunities for both entry-level workers and experienced professionals. The company is hiring assembly technicians to work on the production floor building LED display systems, electrical engineers to design next-generation products, software developers to create control systems and user interfaces, and quality control specialists to ensure products meet rigorous standards.

Hiring will occur in phases over a two-year timeline as the new facility comes online. Initial positions in engineering and project management will be filled first, followed by manufacturing and assembly roles as production equipment is installed. Daktronics typically posts openings on its company careers page and partners with local educational institutions including South Dakota State University to identify qualified candidates. The company has a strong track record of promoting from within and offering professional development opportunities.

What Do These Jobs Pay After Taxes in South Dakota?

One of South Dakota's biggest advantages for workers is the absence of state income tax, meaning employees keep more of their paychecks compared to workers in most other states. Here's what various Daktronics positions pay after federal taxes, FICA, and other deductions:

Salary Annual Take-Home Monthly Tax Rate
$48,000$40,606$3,383/mo15.4%
$62,000$51,856$4,321/mo16.4%
$78,000$63,259$5,271/mo18.9%
$95,000$75,218$6,268/mo20.8%

Assembly technicians typically start around $48,000 annually, taking home approximately $3,383 per month. Mid-level engineers and developers earning $78,000 see monthly take-home pay of $5,271, while senior engineers at $95,000 bring home $6,268 monthly. The lack of state income tax means workers in South Dakota enjoy significantly higher take-home pay than peers in states like California or Minnesota.

Cost of Living — Can You Afford to Live There?

Brookings offers an affordable cost of living that makes these salaries stretch considerably further than in urban centers. A one-bedroom apartment in Brookings typically rents for $650 to $850 per month, while two-bedroom units range from $850 to $1,100. For those looking to buy, the median home price hovers around $240,000, well below the national average.

Monthly expenses for a single person generally total around $2,200 to $2,600 including rent, utilities, groceries, transportation, and entertainment. This means an assembly technician earning $48,000 can comfortably afford local housing with money left over for savings. Engineers and software developers in higher salary brackets will find they can build substantial savings, purchase homes, or enjoy discretionary spending while maintaining financial security.

Brookings benefits from its college town atmosphere, home to South Dakota State University, which provides cultural amenities, dining options, and recreational facilities typically found in larger cities. The community offers excellent schools, low crime rates, and outdoor recreation opportunities including nearby lakes and parks.

When Will Hiring Begin?

Daktronics has indicated that hiring will begin immediately for key leadership and engineering positions needed to oversee the expansion project. Production and assembly positions will be posted as construction progresses on the new facility, with the bulk of hiring expected to occur over the next 18 to 24 months.

Job seekers should monitor the Daktronics careers website regularly and consider setting up job alerts. The company also participates in regional job fairs and works closely with workforce development programs. Networking through professional organizations and connecting with current Daktronics employees on LinkedIn can provide valuable insights into the application process.

Skills and Qualifications Needed

Assembly technician positions typically require a high school diploma or equivalent, with technical training or manufacturing experience considered a plus. The company provides on-the-job training for production roles, making them accessible to career changers and entry-level workers with strong attention to detail and mechanical aptitude.

Engineering positions require a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, or related fields. Software developers should have demonstrated experience in embedded systems, user interface design, or control systems programming. Familiarity with LED technology, display systems, or industrial manufacturing represents a competitive advantage.

Quality control specialists need analytical skills, understanding of manufacturing processes, and often certifications in quality management systems. Across all roles, Daktronics values teamwork, problem-solving abilities, and commitment to continuous improvement.

For workers considering relocation to Brookings or current South Dakota residents exploring opportunities with Daktronics, understanding your potential take-home pay is crucial for financial planning. Use our South Dakota salary calculator to see exactly how much you'll keep from any job offer after all taxes and deductions, helping you make informed career decisions with confidence.

Sources

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