Salaries in Brookings, SD

Salaries in Brookings, SD offer a range of opportunities for job seekers. The average salary stands at $52,954, providing a solid base for many professionals. The highest-paying jobs in the area reach up to $150,000, making it a competitive market for skilled workers.

The salary range in Brookings includes several key sectors. The top earners work in management, professional, and related fields, with salaries starting at $60,545. Other notable sectors include education, training, and library, with starting salaries at $49,364. These figures highlight the potential for growth and advancement in various industries within the city.

1. Registered Nurse
   Average Salary: $74,380
   Registered nurses provide care in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings. They work with doctors and other healthcare professionals to treat patients. Brookings has several healthcare facilities where nurses are in demand.
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2. Licensed Practical Nurse
   Average Salary: $61,973
   Licensed practical nurses assist with patient care under the supervision of doctors and registered nurses. They work in hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics. Many healthcare providers in Brookings need LPNs to help with daily operations.
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3. General Manager
   Average Salary: $49,796
   General managers oversee the operations of businesses. They handle staff, budgets, and customer service. Many local businesses in Brookings look for experienced managers to lead their teams.
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4. Maintenance Technician
   Average Salary: $46,164
   Maintenance technicians repair and maintain equipment. They work in various industries, including manufacturing and hospitality. Many companies in Brookings need skilled technicians to keep their facilities running smoothly.
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5. Construction Laborer
   Average Salary: $44,841
   Construction laborers help with building projects. They perform tasks like digging, lifting, and operating machinery. Construction is a growing field in Brookings, with many projects needing laborers.
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6. Delivery Driver
   Average Salary: $41,322
   Delivery drivers transport goods to customers. They work for companies that deliver packages, groceries, and other items. Many businesses in Brookings rely on delivery drivers to get products to their customers.
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7. Retail Sales Associate
   Average Salary: $39,379
   Retail sales associates help customers find products and complete purchases. They work in stores that sell clothing, electronics, and more. Many local retailers in Brookings need friendly and knowledgeable sales associates.
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8. Cleaner
   Average Salary: $35,340
   Cleaners maintain cleanliness in various settings. They work in offices, schools, and healthcare facilities. Many businesses and institutions in Brookings need reliable cleaners to keep their spaces tidy.
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9. Customer Service Representative
   Average Salary: $33,743
   Customer service representatives assist customers with inquiries and issues. They work in call centers and offices. Many companies in Brookings need representatives to help customers with their needs.
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10. Cook
    Average Salary: $33,556
    Cooks prepare meals in restaurants, schools, and other food service establishments. They follow recipes and ensure food quality. Many local eateries in Brookings need skilled cooks to prepare delicious meals for customers.
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1. Irrigation Technician
   Average Salary: $41,996
   This role involves installing and maintaining irrigation systems. It is a hands-on job, often working with local farms and landscaping companies. The work is both outdoors and in offices, making it a versatile choice.
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2. Landscaper
   Average Salary: $41,765
   Landscapers create and maintain outdoor spaces. They work on gardens, parks, and commercial properties. This job is perfect for those who enjoy working outdoors and seeing the results of their labor.
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3. Restaurant Manager
   Average Salary: $39,222
   Managing a restaurant involves overseeing daily operations. This includes staff management, customer service, and ensuring smooth service. It is a demanding job but offers a chance to lead a team and improve customer experience.
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4. Housekeeping
   Average Salary: $33,488
   Housekeeping staff clean and maintain rooms in hotels and other lodging facilities. This job requires attention to detail and a strong work ethic. It is a steady job with opportunities for advancement.
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5. Server
   Average Salary: $31,854
   Servers work in restaurants, taking orders and serving food and drinks. They interact with customers and must have good communication skills. This job is fast-paced and requires the ability to work well under pressure.
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6. Line Cook
   Average Salary: $31,044
   Line cooks prepare ingredients and cook food in a fast-paced kitchen. They work closely with chefs and other kitchen staff. This job is ideal for those who enjoy cooking and working in a team environment.
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7. Barista
   Average Salary: $30,946
   Baristas prepare and serve coffee and other beverages. They work in cafes and coffee shops, often interacting with customers. This job is perfect for those who love coffee and enjoy a friendly work environment.
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8. Dishwasher
   Average Salary: $30,190
   Dishwashers clean dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment. They work in restaurants and other food service establishments. This job is straightforward and requires attention to detail.
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9. Kitchen Team Member
   Average Salary: $30,150
   Kitchen team members assist in various kitchen tasks. They help with food preparation, cooking, and cleaning. This job is ideal for those who enjoy working in a team and helping out in different areas.
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10. Server Assistant
    Average Salary: $29,781
    Server assistants support servers by setting up tables and clearing dishes. They work in restaurants and help ensure smooth service. This job is a good entry point into the food service industry.
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1. Interim HealthCare
   Average Salary: $60,424
   Interim HealthCare offers home health, hospice, and professional staffing services. They focus on patient care and have a strong reputation in the community.
   

   
   

2. South Dakota Board of Regents
   Average Salary: $59,221
   The South Dakota Board of Regents oversees the state's public universities. They work to provide quality education and support for students and faculty.
   

   
   

3. Avera Health
   Average Salary: $56,817
   Avera Health is a not-for-profit Catholic health care system. They provide a wide range of services and are committed to improving the health of the communities they serve.
   

   
   

4. Sanford Health
   Average Salary: $50,444
   Sanford Health is one of the largest rural health systems in the United States. They offer a variety of medical services and are dedicated to patient care.
   

   
   

5. Brookings Health System
   Average Salary: $49,930
   Brookings Health System provides healthcare services to the local community. They offer a range of medical services and are known for their quality care.
   

   
   

6. South Dakota State University
   Average Salary: $47,882
   South Dakota State University is a public research university. It offers a variety of academic programs and is known for its strong agricultural and engineering schools.
   

   
   

7. City of Brookings
   Average Salary: $44,447
   The City of Brookings provides essential services to the community. They focus on public safety, infrastructure, and community development.
   

   
   

8. Quality Tool
   Average Salary: $43,995
   Quality Tool manufactures and distributes tools for various industries. They are known for their high-quality products and customer service.
   

   
   

9. Falcon Plastics
   Average Salary: $41,148
   Falcon Plastics produces plastic products for a variety of industries. They focus on innovation and quality in their manufacturing processes.
   

   
   

10. Boys & Girls Club of the Northern Plains, Inc.
    Average Salary: $38,944
    The Boys & Girls Club of the Northern Plains, Inc. provides after-school programs and activities for young people. They focus on education, leadership, and personal development.
    

Brookings, South Dakota, offers a cost of living that is notably lower than the nationwide average. The cost of living index for Brookings stands at 89, which is 11% below the national average of 100. This lower index reflects that residents can expect to spend less on overall living expenses compared to the average American. Housing, in particular, is 17% less expensive in Brookings, with an index of 83. This makes it an attractive option for those looking to save on housing costs without sacrificing quality of life.

In addition to housing, other categories also show a favorable comparison to the national average. For instance, groceries cost 3% less in Brookings, with an index of 97. Utilities are also slightly lower, at 95, which is 5% below the national average. Transportation costs are 9% lower, with an index of 91, and healthcare costs are just 2% above the average, at 98. Miscellaneous expenses, which include items like entertainment and personal care, are 12% lower, with an index of 88. These figures indicate that Brookings provides a cost-effective living environment across multiple essential areas.