Job Details

CARES Coordinator (Student Services Professional III)

San Diego State University seeks a compassionate and proactive professional to serve as the CARES Coordinator within the Campus Assistance, Response, Engagement & Support (CARES) program in the Division of Student Affairs and Campus Diversity. The Coordinator provides direct support to students experiencing academic, personal, or emotional challenges by coordinating individualized care plans, connecting students with campus and community resources, and promoting student well‑being and success.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide case management, outreach, and follow‑up for students experiencing distress or crises.
• Develop individualized support plans and facilitate referrals to academic, health, and community resources.
• Maintain accurate and confidential case documentation using Maxient and EAB Navigate.
• Collaborate with faculty, staff, parents, and campus partners to coordinate student support efforts.
• Deliver presentations and outreach to promote awareness of CARES services and student well‑being.
• Participate in assessment, reporting, and initiatives that enhance student retention and success.

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.
• This position is eligible for telecommuting up to 2 days per week, following a training period during which on‑site presence is required.

Department Summary

Under the direction of the Assistant Dean of Students for Student Life, the CARES Program serves as an early‑support initiative that offers a safety net to assist students who are experiencing challenges inside or outside of the classroom. The program provides comprehensive outreach services to identify and support students in managing all aspects of their well‑being, including academics, behavior, and personal challenges such as family crises or financial concerns. The CARES team meets with students who experience challenges that may interfere with their academic pursuits, with the goal of increasing engagement, success, retention, persistence, and graduation.

Vision

To serve the San Diego State University community by coordinating support efforts both on and off campus in order to assist students facing challenges, stressors, and barriers that impede academic and personal success.

Mission

To provide high‑quality, systems‑based outreach and support services that assist and empower students in identifying and managing interpersonal, academic, and healthcare concerns by responding to concerns, connecting students to resources, serving as a central point of contact, fostering resilience and self‑advocacy, and advocating for students individually and systemically.

Education and Experience

Equivalent to graduation from a four‑year college or university in a related field, including upper‑division or graduate coursework in counseling techniques, interviewing, and conflict resolution where relevant. A master's degree in Counseling, Clinical Psychology, Social Work, or a directly related field may substitute one year of experience. A doctorate degree and the appropriate internship or clinical training may substitute the three years of experience for positions with a major responsibility for professional counseling. Possession of these knowledge and abilities is typically demonstrated through the equivalent of three years of progressively responsible professional student services work experience.

Key Qualifications

• Experience using Microsoft Office applications and Google applications.
• Master's degree from an accredited college or university in social work, counseling, higher education, student affairs, or a related field is preferred.
• Experience advising and/or counseling underrepresented, low‑income, and first‑generation college students and working effectively with students from diverse backgrounds.
• Experience working with college students, parents, and families.
• Experience conducting presentations in small and large group settings, facilitating workshops using effective public speaking techniques.
• Experience advising and/or counseling students in academic and/or co‑curricular settings.

Compensation and Benefits

Salary is based on experience, education, and qualifications within the department's budget and equity guidelines.

• CSU Classification Salary Range: $5,540 – $7,893 per month; hiring salary not expected to exceed $5,540 per month.

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.
• 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.

Equal Opportunity Statement

San Diego State University is an equal opportunity employer and embraces the diversity of our student body, personnel, faculty, staff, and community. All university programs and activities are open and available to all, without regard to race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic. SDSU complies with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the Americans with Disabilities Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the California Equity in Higher Education Act, and other applicable federal and state laws. We prohibit discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in all university programs, policies, and practices.

Apply by November 4, 2025 to ensure full consideration. Applications submitted after this date will be reviewed as needed, and the position will remain open until filled.