"Development Specialist II or III"

Overview

This position is open until filled with first review of candidates on February 9, 2026.

This position works a hybrid, in-office/remote schedule and the incumbent must live within a commutable distance from SDSU.

The salary range for this position is $5,858.67-$7,721.57 per month depending upon qualifications and is non-negotiable.

SRD Specialist II: $5,858.68 - $6,333.34

SRD Specialist III: $6,333.34 - $7,721.57

WHO WE ARE

Established in 1943, the mission of the SDSU Research Foundation (SDSURF) is to support the research objectives of San Diego State University by helping faculty and staff find, obtain, and administer funding for their research and sponsored programs. SDSU is one of the top public research universities in the nation, furthering discoveries, interventions, and solutions that improve communities and change the world. SDSURF provides the full life cycle of grants services to faculty and staff to further their important work.

Our vision is to foster a culture of creativity and collaboration with integrity and respect for individuals that results in the delivery of superior service to support the university's strategic aspirations.

Our core values:

• Service: We are a service organization that strives to provide superior support to the university community to achieve SDSU's goals; we are committed to being professionally competent by setting high standards and working hard to achieve results; and we continually seeking to improve our skills and capabilities by valuing education and professional development.
• Collaboration: We seek to actively engage with our stakeholders and employees to identify issues and design solutions, build strong relationships grounded in trust, openness, and inclusion and achieve the best results by taking pride in the accomplishments of our colleagues.
• Innovation: We work towards inspired solutions to improve and adapt to emerging opportunities and challenges, creative ways to streamline and enhance our delivery of services through resourceful and proactive problem solving and strategic use of technology and reduction of obstacles.
• Respect: We promote a culture where every individual is valued and treated with dignity, we honor open-mindedness toward different viewpoints and ideas and have a genuine appreciation for varied backgrounds, experiences, and ways of thinking.
• Integrity: We are committed to act with the highest ethical standards, with honesty, integrity, and transparency, provide consistent and accurate information and value and respect all individuals.

WHAT OUR DEPARTMENT DOES

The Sponsored Research Development Department is the center of collaboration and support, focused on fostering the progress of impactful research and valuable projects. Our dedicated team of professionals works alongside faculty and staff, providing Pre-Award services and guidance of proposal development and submission. The SRD department plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of research.

YOUR ROLE IN CREATING THE UNIVERSITY'S PRESENT AND FUTURE

The Development Specialist plays a critical role in strengthening the effectiveness and success of Sponsored Research Development, the Research Foundation, and San Diego State University. By providing invaluable support to faculty, increasing the quality and quantity of grant proposals, ensuring compliance, and sharing knowledge collaboratively, the Development Specialist helps secure essential funding for research and educational projects, directly impacting the university's reputation as a research powerhouse. This hard work pays off by attracting top talent and elevating SDSU as a leading research institution.

Responsibilities

THE WORK YOU WILL DO AND MANAGE

The Development Specialist will play a crucial role in realizing the strategic goals of the Research Foundation and the Sponsored Research Development department by driving efforts to secure funding for research, education, and other sponsored projects. Aligned with the Research Foundation's mission to support and advance the university's research, the Development Specialist's work will focus on enhancing proposal development, fostering collaboration, and ensuring compliance with sponsor guidelines and university policies. By navigating complex funding opportunities, providing vital support to faculty, and staying up to date on best practices, the Development Specialist will contribute to the growth and success of SDSU Research Foundation and San Diego State University. Key tasks supporting these larger goals include creating and revising proposal budgets, advising faculty on submission procedures, facilitating communications with funding agencies, and managing the electronic submission of proposals, among other essential responsibilities.

THE SKILLS WE NEED

• Deep understanding of faculty projects with the ability to research solutions and resolve complex issues.
• Proficiency in current systems, software, and Excel, coupled with strong budget development skills for various funding sources.
• Familiarity with SDSU and Research Foundation culture, regulations, and both pre- and post-award processes.
• Exceptional problem-solving skills, including the ability to analyze, evaluate, and devise creative solutions.
• A team player with strong interpersonal skills, fostering effective collaboration and positive relationships.
• Excellent planning and organizational abilities, crucial for managing complex tasks and workflows.

Qualifications

Education and Experience

Bachelor's degree, preferably in Business Administration, Accounting or related field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.

SRD Specialist II: One year of related and progressively responsible or expansive work experience in research administration including the area of pre- or post-award processes, or related field such as regulatory administration.

SRD Specialist III: Four years of related and progressively responsible or expansive work experience in research administration with a focus on pre/post award activities.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience using electronic research administration and submission systems.
• Experience in research administration in a pre or post-award capacity.
• Experience working with SDSU Research Foundation and SDSU policies and procedures.
• Experience with Pre-Award processes.
• Experience with InfoEd, Banner, Etrieve, or other related electronic systems.

WHAT YOU WILL RECEIVE

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans
• Life and disability insurance plans
• Generous employer contributed 403b retirement plan. We match 200% on the first 5% of contributions, up to 10% maximum employer matching contribution. All contributions are 100% vested.
• Vacation and sick leave accruals
• 14 paid holidays and 1 annual personal holiday
• Hybrid in-office/telework arrangements
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Access to campus amenities, including Love Library, Aztec Lanes bowling alley, SDSU transit center, and a variety of coffee shops and eateries.
• Discounted Aztec Recreation Center gym membership and SDSU events
• Wellness workshops

HOW TO APPLY AND TIPS FOR MAKING IT THROUGH OUR HIRING PROCESS

You must apply through the SDSURF Career Page. Make sure your application is complete. Including a resume and cover letter is recommended. Respond to supplemental questions thoroughly.