Native Student Success Advisor and Program Manager (Student Services Professional III)

San Diego State University • San Diego, CA

3d • $5,540 - $7,893 • Onsite

About The Position

San Diego State University is seeking a collaborative, student-centered Native Student Success Advisor and Program Manager for its Native Resource Center (NRC). The position supports the academic success, well-being, and sense of belonging of Native and Indigenous students through individualized advising, culturally responsive programming, and community engagement. Working closely with the NRC Director, the role oversees daily center operations, supervises and mentors student assistants, and coordinates signature programs with campus and community partners.

The NRC, located on Kumeyaay Land, facilitates the academic and personal success of Native American and Indigenous identified students through accessible programming and resources, services that address barriers to academic achievement, community building, partnerships, and advocacy for including Native American and Indigenous histories, cultures, and perspectives in campus programs and curriculum.

This is a permanent, full-time, benefits-eligible, probationary position designated exempt under the FLSA and not eligible for overtime compensation. The position works on campus at SDSU in San Diego. Standard hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., although hours may vary based on operational needs. The CSU classification salary range is $5,540–$7,893 per month; the hiring salary is not expected to exceed $5,540 per month. Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. Employment is contingent on a satisfactory background check. The position is subject to mandated-reporter requirements under California law and CSU policy.

Requirements

• Equivalent to graduation from a four-year college or university in a related field, including or supplemented by upper-division or graduate coursework in job-related counseling techniques, interviewing, and conflict resolution.
• Typically, the required knowledge and abilities are demonstrated through the equivalent of three years of progressively responsible professional student services work experience.
• Basic understanding of decolonial methods in educational settings, including Native American history.
• Knowledge of Native and Indigenous student experiences, cultural perspectives, and approaches that promote belonging and equitable access to education.
• Experience providing individualized student advising, guidance, and referrals to support academic success, retention, and well-being.
• Experience planning, coordinating, and evaluating culturally responsive programs, educational workshops, and community-building events.
• Experience supervising, training, and mentoring student assistants while supporting daily program operations.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, including experience collaborating with students, faculty, staff, and community partners from diverse backgrounds.
• Excellent organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills, including experience managing multiple priorities, assessing program effectiveness, and addressing complex student needs.
• Applicants must currently be authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis.
• Must satisfactorily complete a background check, including a criminal records check.
• Must comply with mandated-reporter requirements as a condition of employment.

Nice To Haves

• One year of experience in the assigned program area is preferred but not required.
• A master's degree in Counseling, Clinical Psychology, Social Work, or a directly related field may substitute for one year of experience.
• A doctorate degree and appropriate internship or clinical training in counseling or guidance may substitute for three years of experience for positions with a major responsibility for professional career or personal counseling.

Responsibilities

• Supervise, mentor, and support student assistants through training, professional development, and daily operations.
• Provide individualized student advising, guidance, and referrals to support academic success, retention, and well-being.
• Coordinate cultural and educational programs, including Orange Shirt Day, Indigenous Peoples' Day, and the Native & Indigenous Research and Arts Symposium.
• Collaborate with faculty, campus departments, and community partners to support culturally responsive programming and student engagement.
• Support Native Resource Center operations, assess program effectiveness, and identify opportunities to enhance student services and experiences.

Benefits

• 15 paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
• CalPERS pension plan with retiree healthcare and reciprocal agreements with other California public retirement systems, including the UC.
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage options at low or no cost.
• CSU tuition fee waiver for employees and eligible dependents.
• Optional FlexCash, life and disability insurance, legal plans, and pet plans.
• Access to the library, campus events, employee groups, and volunteer and social activities.
• Professional growth and community engagement opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level