SDSU Research Foundation

Research Assistant III

Req No.
2026-20267
Category
Research/Project
Type
Full-Time Contract
Salary
$27.00/hour
Dept/Proj Name
BrightSide Produce
Close Date
5/11/2026

Overview

The pay rate for this position is $27.00 per hour depending upon qualifications and is non-negotiable.

BrightSide Produce is a program of the Fowler College of Business. The Research Assistant III position for BrightSide Produce assists the co-founders and directors in overseeing all aspects of the program, including community outreach and services, farm operations, and the BrightSide Produce Internship Program.

 

Under direction, the research assistant will provide advanced program management in a field environment. Instructions/policies/procedures and protocols are followed independently, using discretion, judgment and interpretation. This level frequently provides lead direction and/or supervision to lower-level Research Assistants, Student/Graduate Assistants, and on occasion, clerical staff.

Examples of research duties at this level include overseeing the day-to-day tasks of the program by coordinating schedules, providing training, preparing reports and providing daily updates to the leadership team. May assist with administrative tasks in support of program activities.

This is an advanced-level position for incumbents who have completed upper division coursework or have relevant work experience. In addition to the abilities required for the Research Assistant I & II levels, the RAIII must be able to independently apply procedures and protocols and make decisions using mutliple sources of data requiring interpretation.

Responsibilities

The Research Assistant III is responsible for but not limited to:

 

Project Implementation and Research Activities – 90%

  • Assist with project management, including on the development, assessment, and implementation of existing and new projects.
  • Serve as the primary person in charge of specific projects.
  • Serve as the primary liaison between the project team and project partners, establishing new relationships and providing ongoing support to project partners.
  • Supervise the day-to-day tasks of team members by coordinating schedules, providing training, preparing reports and providing daily updates to the Principal Investigator.
  • Contribute to research activities and report.
  • Represent BrightSide Produce at community meetings and events.
  • Participate in weekly project meetings.

 

Other Duties and Responsibilities as Assigned – 10%

  • Comply with all SDSURF policies and procedures.
  • Contribute to annual progress reports.
  • Complete other activities as assigned.

Qualifications

MINIMUM EDUCATION

  • Completion of sufficient upper division coursework

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE

  • OR -Equivalent of two years full time progressively responsible related experience in lieu of coursework.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS AND SPECIAL SKILLS

Project Specific Knowledge and Abilities

  • Prior participation in BrightSide Produce activities.
  • Knowledge of all aspects of the program, including sourcing, store deliveries, farm partnerships and the internship program.

Other Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

  • Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and Google Drive
  • Ability to demonstrate a high level of cross-cultural sensitivity
  • Access to reliable transportation
  • Ability to be flexible with work schedule
  • English/Spanish language skills

 

ADDITIONAL APPLICANT INFORMATION

  • 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.

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