HRIS Associate

Overview

The salary range for this position is $28.25 - $32.07 per hour depending on qualifications and is non-negotiable. 

This position is open until filled with first review of candidates on November 23, 2026.

WHO WE ARE

Established in 1943, the SDSU Research Foundation (SDSURF) supports San Diego State University’s research mission by providing comprehensive grant services that help faculty and staff secure and manage funding. Through its support of SDSU’s nationally recognized research programs, SDSURF helps advance discovery, innovation, and solutions that make a meaningful impact on communities.

Our Core Values:

• Service: We are a results-oriented service organization dedicated to professional excellence, high standards, and continuous improvement.
• Collaboration: We seek to build inclusive, trust-based relationships and work together with stakeholders to solve issues.
• Innovation: We are committed to proactive problem-solving, streamlining service delivery, and adapting to new opportunities using technology.
• Respect: We promote a culture grounded in valuing individual dignity, diverse perspectives, and open-mindedness.
• Integrity: We are driven by honesty, transparency, high ethical standards, and accurate information.

WHAT OUR DEPARTMENT DOES

The Human Resources Department supports the Foundation’s mission by providing quality customer service and guidance in recruitment and onboarding, compensation and benefits administration, training, and employee relations. HR also ensures the accurate and timely processing of employee transactions and maintains reliable employee information and records to support effective workforce management and informed decision-making. Through strategic partnerships and a commitment to operational excellence, HR strives to create a positive employee experience throughout the employee lifecycle while attracting, developing, and retaining qualified, diverse, and talented individuals dedicated to the success of the Research Foundation.

YOUR ROLE IN CREATING THE UNIVERSITY’S PRESENT AND FUTURE

As an HRIS Associate, reporting to the Manager of HR Systems and Processes, you are part of a customer focused team supporting the recruitment and onboarding of employees and volunteers. Your role is key in supporting the research projects and sponsored programs that make SDSU one of the top public research universities in the nation furthering discoveries, interventions, and solutions that improve communities and change the world.

Responsibilities

THE WORK YOU WILL DO AND MANAGE

As a key player in the success of the HR Department and the Research Foundation, you will be responsible for (but not limited to):

• Administration of the SDSURF Volunteer and Research Affiliate Program for all Research Projects and Central Staff to grant Volunteers, Consultants, and Project Affiliates an SDSUID enabling them to access systems and assist projects. 
• Daily validation of New Hire Data and requesting corrections or directly entering information into the Banner HRIS database as appropriate.
• Entering New Hire payroll deductions and tax information in the Banner HRIS database.
• Process personnel changes that include employee’s personal information, pay, benefits, position, and employment status.
• Running Payroll Reports as part of the payroll cycle validation process.
• This role is also part of the team responsible for placing our soft-copy documents into the correct employee electronic file.

Qualifications

THE SKILLS WE NEED

Experience and Education

• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent in business, human resources, accounting, or a related field, OR an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• Previous experience working in an office or administrative environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Four years of related experience, which includes data entry job duties.
• Experience with HR and Talent Acquisition programs, systems and processes (applicant tracking systems, recruiting, onboarding, and personnel data management)
• Experience with Banner Human Resources by Ellucian, or a similarly complex Human Capital Management System (HCMS).
• Attention to detail key to being successful in this position.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Customer service experience.
• Advanced Excel skills and experience.
• Experience with Smartsheet including data management and automation set-up
• Strong database experience and knowledge.
• Experience in higher education, research, or non-profit sectors.

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:

• The salary range for this position is $28.25 to $32.07 an hour depending upon qualifications and is non-negotiable. 
• Hybrid Work Philosophy: We believe that a balanced approach to work—combining the flexibility of remote work with the collaborative energy of in-person engagement—creates the most effective and fulfilling environment for our organization. Remote work empowers individuals with autonomy, focus, and work-life balance, while in-office days foster connection, creativity, and shared purpose. Having at least two days in the office is essential to maintain strong interpersonal relationships, encourage spontaneous collaboration, and reinforce our shared culture. These in-person interactions help build trust, align teams, and spark innovation in ways that are difficult to replicate remotely. By embracing a hybrid model of two days in the office and three days remote, we enable both personal productivity and collective innovation, ensuring our culture remains strong, inclusive, and adaptable.
• Candidate must reside in California and live within a commutable distance from SDSU at time of hire.
• Job offer is contingent upon satisfactory clearance based on background check results (including a criminal record check).
• San Diego State University Research Foundation is an equal opportunity employer. Consistent with California law and federal civil rights laws, SDSU Research Foundation provides equal opportunity in employment without unlawful discrimination or preferential treatment based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin or any other categories protected by federal or state law.  
• Employment decisions are based on an individual’s qualifications as they relate to the job under consideration. Our commitment to equal opportunity means ensuring that every employee has equal access to resources and support. 
• SDSU Research Foundation complies with Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the California Equity in Higher Education Act, California’s Proposition 209 (Art. I, Section 31 of the California Constitution), and other applicable state and federal anti-discrimination laws including grant or contract terms and conditions related to funded program activities. Further the SDSU Research Foundation maintains a Nondiscrimination Policy that prohibits discriminatory preferential treatment, segregation based on race or any other protected status, and all forms of unlawful discrimination, harassment, and retaliation in all programs, policies, and practices.  
• SDSU Research Foundation makes all employment decisions including, but not limited to, applicant screening, hiring, promotion, demotion, compensation, benefits, disciplinary actions, and terminations on the basis of merit.