Overview

• This position is open until filled with an initial application review to take place after March 22, 2024.
• The wage range for this position is $20.00 - $25.00 per hour dependent upon qualifications and internal equities and is non-negotiable. 
• This position works a hybrid in-office/remote schedule and the candidate must live a commutable distance from SDSU.

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.

WHAT OUR DEPARTMENT DOES

The communications office is responsible for internal and external communications, including communication with SDSU principal investigators (PIs), employees, and other internal and external constituents. The communications staff are also responsible for media relations, issues and crisis communications, publications, reports, trainings, and web and social content. This office works closely with SDSU’s marketing and communications teams to support and highlight the work of SDSU researchers.

There are two other FTE positions: the Communications Officer and the Public Affairs/Communications Specialist (PACS).

The Office of Communications is housed in the Executive Office.

Responsibilities

YOUR ROLE IN CREATING THE UNIVERSITY’S PRESENT AND FUTURE

The Communications Assistant plays a critical role in the effective operations of the Communications/Executive Office, the Research Foundation, and San Diego State University

This position will collaborate with a team of talented professionals in support of department operations and its mission support and further the research, education, and community service objectives of the university. In this role, you will be responsible for a variety of routine to complex administrative tasks in a fast-paced environment and provide valuable support to ensure that branding guidelines and university requirements are met. With integrity, discretion, and professionalism, you will handle confidential information and interact with senior executives and colleagues across the organization.

THE WORK YOU WILL DO AND MANAGE

• Collaborate with the PACS and Communications Officer to create engaging content for SDSURF’s social media presence, including keeping social media channels updated and brand-focused, seeking out new social media avenues and ways of connecting with audiences, and tracking monthly social media analytics.
• Assist with creating, tracking, and managing RSVPs and calendar invitations for SDSURF workshops, PI lectures, and Visit a Project series. Support with the development of materials. Take and edit photos and maintain photo libraries.
• Assist with cleaning data for monthly and annual award publications, organize project and PI photos, and update/maintain project photo tracking sheets. Serve as backup to PACS to prepare the monthly awards publication on an as-needed basis. Provide administrative support with the development of the Annual Report.
• Assist with managing internal/external SharePoint sites for SDSURF newsletters. Find and edit images for the photo library, and maintain tracking sheets to ensure newsletter content is organized. Support PACS/Communications Officer with newsletter development and dissemination.
• Assist with maintaining communication mailing lists in Google Contacts.
• Retrieve and respond to general inquiries sent to the SDSURF primary email address, responding and directing messages to the appropriate department(s).
• This position will support with preparation and day of operations as needed for SDSURF events and/or meetings, including board meetings, staff meetings, and staff events.
• Assist the PACS with organizing photos and files and capturing notes for SDSURF staff committee meetings.
• May provide backup support to the Executive Assistant to the Associate Vice President/CEO, including but not limited to scheduling meetings, deliveries, and meeting preparation.

Qualifications

THE SKILLS WE NEED

• An individual with a general understanding of communication principles and practices.
• Knowledge of best practices for social media platforms such as Facebook, X, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
• Strong oral and written communication skills with the ability to understand, interpret, and communicate effectively across SDSURF communication channels.
• An individual with the ability to maintain positive working relationships with colleagues, faculty, and staff.
• The ability to be an effective team member and maintain confidentiality is essential.
• Proficient in MS Office (e.g. Word and SharePoint) and Google Workspace (e.g. Gmail, Drive, Calendar, Docs); familiarity with design software (e.g. Photoshop, Canva) and content management systems is a plus.
• Detail-oriented with the ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and use good judgment and initiative to address problems and develop solutions.
• Strong planning and organizing skills.

Experience and Education

Minimum: High school diploma or equivalent and previous experience in an office or administrative environment.

Preferred: 1) Previous experience working in an institution of higher education, research institution, or non-profit organization. 2) Previous experience working in a communications role. 3) Previous experience using social media to promote a company's products or services.

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.

WHAT OUR HIRING PROCESS IS LIKE

We work as fast as we can to make hiring decisions. However, it may take several weeks for all the parties involved to review your application. We keep in touch each step of the way and inform you of the status of your application.

ADDITIONAL APPLICANT INFORMATION:

• Applicant must live in a commutable distance from SDSU.
• This position is open until filled.
• A background check (including a criminal records check) must be completed satisfactorily before any candidate can be offered a position with SDSU Research Foundation.
• San Diego State University Research Foundation is an EEO/AA/Disability/Vets/Title IX Employer.