Pride Center Program Director (Student Services Professional IV)Job no: 562321
Work type: Staff
Location: San Diego
Categories: Unit 4 - APC - Academic Professionals of California, Probationary, Full Time, Student Services, On-site (work in-person at business location)
Position SummarySan Diego State University is seeking an engaged and collaborative
Program Director to lead the Pride Center and advance its mission of supporting LGBTQIA+ students' belonging, well-being, leadership development, and academic success. Reporting to the Associate Chief Diversity Officer for Student Affairs and Campus Diversity, this role provides leadership for the Center's programs, services, staff, budget, facilities, and daily operations.
The Program Director serves as a trusted resource and advocate for LGBTQIA+ students while working closely with faculty, staff, campus departments, community partners, and external organizations. This highly visible position offers the opportunity to shape inclusive initiatives, strengthen student support networks, and contribute to a more connected and equitable campus community.
Key Responsibilities- Lead the day-to-day operations of the Pride Center, including staff guidance, student employee support, and program administration and facilitation.
- Support the Center's strategic direction by developing programs, services, initiatives, and assessment practices that respond to student needs.
- Oversee the Center's budget, purchasing, resource stewardship, reports, and compliance with University policies and procedures.
- Provide advocacy, mentorship, and support to LGBTQIA+ students while responding thoughtfully to complex student, equity, mental health, and community concerns.
- Build collaborative relationships across campus and with community partners to strengthen student success, retention, academic achievement, leadership development, and belonging.
- Represent the Pride Center and Division of Student Affairs and Campus Diversity through outreach, communications, campus committees, events, and community engagement.
Position Information- This is a full-time (1.0 time-base), benefits eligible, permanent/probationary position.
- This position is designated as exempt under FLSA and is not 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.
- The individual hired into this role will work on campus at SDSU in San Diego
Department SummaryThe Pride Center at San Diego State University fosters an open, inclusive, safe, and affirming environment for individuals of all sexual orientations, romantic orientations, gender identities, and gender expressions, as well as their allies. Through community-building initiatives, advocacy, educational opportunities, and social justice programming, the Center supports students, staff, faculty, community members, and allies connected to the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.
Recognizing that identity is dynamic and continually evolving, the Pride Center is committed to creating a space where all 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals feel seen, accepted, and valued. Students of all backgrounds who are interested in engaging with the Center are welcome to participate in its programs and services.
For more information regarding the SDSU Pride Center, click here.
Education and ExperienceEquivalent to graduation from a four-year college or university in a related field plus upper division or graduate course work in counseling techniques, interviewing and conflict resolution where such are job related.
Possession of the below required knowledge and abilities is typically demonstrated through the equivalent to four years of progressively responsible professional student services work experience which includes experience in advising students individually and in groups, and in analysis and resolution of complex student services problems.
A master's degree in counseling, Clinical Psychology, Social Work, or a job-related field may be substituted for one year of professional experience. A doctorate degree and the appropriate internship or clinical training in counseling, guidance or a job-related field may be substituted for two years of the required professional experience for positions with a major responsibility for professional, personal or career counseling.
Key Qualifications- Experience developing and coordinating programs that promote student belonging, well-being, leadership development, and academic success.
- Background working in student affairs, student services, advising, or a student support program.
- Knowledge of issues affecting LGBTQIA+ students and communities, with a commitment to creating an inclusive and affirming campus environment.
- Experience managing day-to-day operations, programs, staffing needs, budgets, and other resources.
- Skill in supporting students through complex situations while balancing advocacy, empowerment, institutional responsibilities, and appropriate professional boundaries.
- Ability to build collaborative relationships with campus departments, faculty, staff, community organizations, and cultural centers.
- Sound judgment, discretion, and conflict-management skills when responding to sensitive or challenging concerns.
Preferred Qualifications- Specialized training in conflict resolution, mediation, leadership, or organizational development.
- Experience creating strategic plans, assessing programs, and using feedback or data to guide improvements.
- Leadership experience in a nonprofit, community-based organization, or other setting focused on advocacy, student support, or community engagement.
Compensation and BenefitsSan Diego State University offers competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth.
Compensation:
Salary is based on your experience, education, and qualifications, within the department's budget and equity guidelines.
- CSU Classification Salary Range: $6,320 - $9,014/month; hiring salary not expected to exceed $6,320.00/month.[1]
Full Benefits Package Includes:
- 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.
Our benefits are a significant part of total compensation. Learn more at the SDSU Benefits Overview.
SDSU ValuesAt SDSU, our diversity gives us power and benefits every single member of our community. Consistent with California law and federal civil rights laws, SDSU provides equal opportunity for all in education and employment. We encourage all members of our community to purposefully learn from one another through open and respectful dialogue and responsible engagement. We strongly preserve the right to free expression and encourage difficult conversations that help lead to improved individual and community learning and cohesion.
Principles of Community
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.
SDSU's Principles of Community is an aspirational statement that is intended to evolve over time. The statement reflects the ideals we are encouraged to uphold in our interactions with one another.
Supplemental InformationApply by October 16th to ensure full consideration. Applications submitted after this date will be reviewed on an as-needed basis, and the position will remain open until filled.
Advertised: Oct 01 2026 Pacific Daylight Time
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