Assistant Academic Advisor Trainee (Student Services Professional I/A)

CSU Careers • San Diego, CA

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Assistant Academic Advisor Trainee is an entry-level opportunity to build a career in academic advising while directly supporting student success within the College of Professional Studies and Fine Arts (PSFA). This position provides training and hands-on experience in guiding undergraduate students through degree requirements, academic policies, and university procedures. Working under close supervision, the role supports advising services, student outreach, and academic success initiatives while developing the knowledge and skills needed to advance in student services. This is an excellent opportunity for a student-centered professional who is passionate about helping students navigate their academic journey and achieve their goals. As part of the California State University (CSU) system, San Diego State University helps power one of the largest and most impactful public university systems in the nation. See what it’s like to work at the CSU—watch our video and imagine your future here: Working at the CSU. This is a full-time (1.0 time-base), benefits eligible, permanent/probationary position. This position is designated non-exempt under FLSA and is 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. This position is approved for partial telecommuting with onsite work in San Diego after the initial training period. The College of Professional Studies and Fine Arts (PSFA) is one of eight instructional units of San Diego State University. The College is comprised of ten diverse departments and schools: the departments of Aerospace Studies, Military Science and Naval Science; the schools of Art, Design and Art History, Communication, Hospitality and Tourism Management, Journalism and Media Studies, Music and Dance, Public Affairs, and Theatre, Television and Film as well as ten research centers. The College is staffed by 49 positions of administrative, clerical and technical staff in addition to approximately 260 tenured/tenure-track faculty and lecturers serving over 5,000 majors. The Dean’s Office is responsible for the creation, implementation and continued support of the instructional, research, and development processes in the College. At San Diego State University, we are a community of diverse individuals who have and represent many perspectives, beliefs and identities. This diversity lends our community strength, and we commit to creating and sustaining an inclusive and intellectually vibrant environment that benefits all members of our university. For more information regarding the College of Professional Studies and Fine Arts, click here .

Requirements

• Equivalent to graduation from a four-year college or university in one of the behavioral sciences, public or business administration, or a job-related field.
• Specialized experience during which the applicant has acquired and successfully applied the knowledge and abilities shown below may be substituted for the required education on a year-for-year basis.
• Working knowledge of general academic advising practices and student support services.
• Ability to interpret and apply established policies and procedures.
• Ability to gather and organize student information accurately.
• Ability to use standard office software (e.g., Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, Google applications).

Nice To Haves

• Experience working in a college or university setting is preferred.
• Experience providing customer service or student support services is preferred.
• Experience working with diverse student populations is preferred.
• Familiarity with academic records, degree requirements, or student information systems is preferred.
• Experience using standard office software applications is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Assist in providing academic advising support related to degree requirements, General Education, course selection, and graduation planning.
• Guide students in understanding university policies, procedures, and available academic resources.
• Support students experiencing academic challenges by explaining options and connecting them to appropriate services.
• Assist with group advising sessions, workshops, and communication initiatives to share academic information.
• Collaborate with faculty and staff to ensure accurate and consistent advising, referring to complex cases as needed.

Benefits

• 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.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Number of Employees: 1-10 employees