"Assistant Program Director, Native American Resource Center (Student Services Professional III)"

Position Summary

The Assistant Program Director of the Native Resource Center (NRC) supports the academic success, personal development, and community engagement of Native and Indigenous students at SDSU. This role provides leadership in developing and implementing programs that foster inclusion, advocacy, and student retention while advancing the mission and goals of the Native Resource Center and the Division of Student Affairs and Campus Diversity.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage daily operations of the Native Resource Center, including supervision of student staff and coordination of center activities.
• Support the development and implementation of the NRC's mission, vision, and strategic plan through innovative programming and partnerships.
• Design, coordinate, and evaluate educational, cultural, leadership, and community-building programs that address Native and Indigenous student needs.
• Collaborate with campus partners and community organizations to promote outreach, retention, and student success initiatives.
• Support major events and celebrations, including Native Heritage Month, Pow Wow, and Howka Weekend.
• Provide general advising, mentoring, and academic support to Native students to enhance persistence and graduation outcomes.
• Represent the Native Resource Center and the Division of Student Affairs and Campus Diversity on committees and at university and community events.
• Manage communication efforts, including social media, data tracking, and reporting to highlight NRC initiatives and impact.

Join our team in empowering Native and Indigenous students to thrive academically, personally, and culturally. Apply Now!

Position Information

• This is a full-time (1.0 time-base), benefits eligible, temporary position with an anticipated end date of June 30, 2027, with the possibility of reappointment.
• This position is designated as exempt under FLSA and is not eligible for overtime compensation.
• Standard SDSU work hours are Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., but may vary based on operational needs. (Willingness to travel and work irregular hours, including evenings and weekends, with advance notice)
• The individual hired into this role will work on campus at SDSU in San Diego

Department Summary

Founded in 1897 on Kumeyaay land, San Diego State University is recognized as a national leader in higher education committed to equity, inclusion, and student success. The Native Resource Center (NRC) supports the personal, academic, and professional growth of Native and Indigenous students by fostering community, cultural connection, and educational empowerment.

Through the NRC, students can engage with organizations such as the Native American Student Alliance and Indigenous Social Work Association and participate in initiatives like the Elymash Yuuchaap: Indigenous Scholars and Leaders Program. The NRC welcomes all students interested in learning about and supporting Native and Indigenous communities and contributes to SDSU's mission of cultivating a diverse and inclusive campus where all students can thrive.

For more information regarding the Native Resource Center, click here.

Education and Experience

Equivalent to graduation from a four-year college or university in a related field, including or supplemented by upper division or graduate course work in counseling techniques, interviewing, and conflict resolution where such are job-related.

A master's degree in Counseling, Clinical Psychology, Social Work, or a directly related field may be substituted for one year of experience. A doctorate degree and the appropriate internship or clinical training in counseling or guidance may be substituted for the three years of experience for positions with a major responsibility for professional career or personal counseling.

Possession of these knowledge and abilities is typically demonstrated through the equivalent of three years of progressively responsible professional student services work experience. One year in the program area to which assigned may be preferred but is not required.

Key Qualifications

• Documented experience developing and coordinating programs and events both independently and collaboratively.
• Knowledge, sensitivity, and understanding of the social, cultural, and educational needs of Native and Indigenous students.
• Demonstrated ability to apply Indigenous-centered, anti-racist, and equity-based frameworks to create inclusive and supportive environments.
• Strong interpersonal and cross-cultural communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across campus and community partners.
• Proven ability to assess, design, implement, and evaluate effective programming, policies, and student support initiatives.
• Experience recruiting, training, and mentoring student leaders or staff in advocacy, outreach, and program development.
• Master's degree in American Indian Studies, Ethnic Studies, Cultural Studies, Higher Education, or a related field (preferred).

Compensation and Benefits

San Diego State University offers competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth.

Compensation:
Salary is based on your experience, education, and qualifications, within the department's budget and equity guidelines.

CSU Classification Salary Range: $5,540 - $7,893/month; hiring salary not expected to exceed $5,540/month.

Full Benefits Package Includes:

• Generous Time Off: 15 paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
• Retirement: CalPERS pension plan with retiree healthcare, and reciprocal agreements with other California public retirement systems, including the UC.
• Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision options at low or no cost.
• Education Support: CSU tuition fee waiver for employees and eligible dependents.
• Optional Offerings: FlexCash, life and disability insurance, legal and pet plans.
• Campus & Community: Access to the library, campus events, employee groups, and volunteer and social activities.

Our benefits are a significant part of total compensation. Learn more at the SDSU Benefits Overview.