Development Specialist II
About The Position
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. The Sponsored Research Development (SRD) unit plays a crucial role in helping faculty and staff develop and submit proposals for sponsored research and educational projects. As the "Pre-Award" unit of the research foundation, the SRD is the go-to office for faculty once a sponsor has been identified and a proposal is being developed. The staff in SRD provide assistance with interpreting guidelines, understanding sponsor submission requirements, contacting potential sponsors, preparing budgets, completing application forms, obtaining university approvals, electronically submitting proposals, facilitating compliance items, duplicating and mailing proposals, and offering support with follow-up and other Pre-Award needs. In fiscal year 2025, SRD contributed to the submission of 1,316 proposals, which led to nearly 808 awards totaling over $200 million. The SRD team is composed of 15 dedicated employees, including one technician, one analyst, nine development specialists, two managers, an associate director, and the director.
Requirements
- 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.
- Bachelor's degree, preferably in Business Administration, Accounting or related field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
- 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.
- Must reside in California and live within a commutable distance from SDSU at time of hire.
Nice To Haves
- 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.
Responsibilities
- Plays a critical role in strengthening the effectiveness and success of Sponsored Research Development, the Research Foundation, and San Diego State University.
- Provides invaluable support to faculty, increasing the quality and quantity of grant proposals.
- Ensures compliance with sponsor guidelines and university policies.
- Helps secure essential funding for research and educational projects, directly impacting the university's reputation as a research powerhouse.
- Drives efforts to secure funding for research, education, and other sponsored projects.
- Enhances proposal development, fosters collaboration, and ensures compliance with sponsor guidelines and university policies.
- Navigates complex funding opportunities and provides vital support to faculty.
- Stays up to date on best practices.
- Creates and revises proposal budgets.
- Advises faculty on submission procedures.
- Facilitates communications with funding agencies.
- Manages the electronic submission of proposals.
Benefits
- 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
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
