Learning Specialist

Position Summary

Under the general supervision of the Senior Associate Athletic Director for Student-Athlete Support Services, the Learning Specialist works with a high degree of autonomy to support and monitor the academic progress of assigned high-risk student-athletes in compliance with NCAA, conference, and university regulations. The position provides specialized academic support to promote skill development, maintain eligibility, and long-term academic success through individualized plans, targeted instruction, and ongoing progress monitoring.

In this role, the Coordinator will:

• Provide individualized academic support and learning strategy instruction to high-risk student-athletes, including study skills, time management, and executive functioning.

• Develop and implement personalized academic plans and conduct regular check-ins to monitor progress and accountability.

• Track academic performance and prepare reports to inform coaches, staff, and administrators of student progress and concerns.

• Coordinate accommodations and referrals in collaboration with Student Disability Services and campus partners.

• Support learning services programming, including tutoring coordination, orientation, and student-athlete success initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:

• Deliver intensive academic support through structured meetings, mentoring, and skill-building tailored to individual student-athlete needs.

• Monitor academic progress, maintain documentation, and provide consistent communication and reporting to stakeholders.

• Collaborate with campus partners to ensure access to appropriate academic resources and accommodations.

• Assist in the development and implementation of learning services programs and initiatives.

• Contribute to tutor program support, staff training, and student-athlete transition programming.

Position Information

• This is a full-time (1.0 time-base), benefits eligible, temporary position with an anticipated end date of December 31, 2026, with the possibility of reappointment. 

• 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.  Ability to work some evenings, weekends and travel.

• The individual hired into this role will work on campus at SDSU in San Diego.

Education and Experience

Equivalent to graduation from a four-year college or university in one of the behavioral sciences, public or business administration or a job-related field. Additional specialized experience during which the applicant has acquired and successfully applied the knowledge and abilities shown below may be substituted for the required education on a year-for-year basis.

Possession of the required knowledge and abilities is typically demonstrated through the equivalent of two years of professional experience in one of the student services program areas or in a related field; experience should give evidence of competence and indicate the potential for further growth. A master’s degree in a job-related field may be substituted for one year of the professional experience.

Key Qualifications

• Experience in advising, tutoring, collecting and analyzing data, curriculum advising, and program development.

• Excellent organizational and leadership skills. 

• Strong verbal and written communication skills, and excellent interpersonal skills to develop and maintain effective relationships with administration, faculty, coaches, parents, student-athletes, constituents within the university, and the university community.

• Masters or post-graduate degree in a related field is preferred. 

• Two or more years of experience advising/tutoring/mentoring collegiate student-athletes is preferred.

• Knowledge of NCAA initial and continuing eligibility requirements.  

• Previous experience teaching. 

• Previous experience working with student-athletes who have documented education impacting disabilities.

Licenses and/or Certifications Required

• Valid California Driver’s License or the ability to obtain one within 10 days of hire.

Compensation and Benefits

San 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: $5,083 - $7,228/month; hiring salary not expected to exceed $5,083/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, 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.