Assistant Research Administrator

It is an exciting time at USC. We are world-renowned for our innovative education, academic excellence and path-breaking research in a vibrant region exploding with potential. As part of a university that is on an upward trajectory, excellent development and advancement opportunities are possible here. Ultimately, you will support the university’s expansive, humanity-centered mission: “The development of human beings and society as a whole through the cultivation and enrichment of the human mind and spirit.”

The Dornsife Business Office at the Dana and David Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences is seeking an Assistant Research Administrator to join its team.

Specifically, the Assistant Research Administrator will manage day-to-day activities for post-award research administration for a variety of departments with sponsored research portfolios.

The ideal candidate will have research administration experience. The candidate should be detail oriented and understand the award lifecycle. We are looking for confidence within award management, ability to work under pressure, and exceptional organizational skills. The candidate should be proactive, hence be willing to get involved and provide support as needed.

Job responsibilities include:

• Assists in the preparation of routine proposals within parameters of sponsored and non- sponsored research guidelines. Oversees and communicates submission process, both paper and electronic. Reviews documents for completeness and compliance.
• Assists in the development, preparation and finalization of the project budgets. Understands and provides budget justification, as requested.
• Serves as primary liaison and active partner between principal investigators, Office of Sponsored Research, research groups, and other departments. Responds to sponsor inquiries.
• Collaborates with Office of Sponsored Research to ensure awards are set up properly and cost-sharing requirements are fulfilled. Initiates cost transfers.
• Reviews and understands the terms and conditions of sponsored projects administered. Initiates expenditures.
• Reviews and approves expenditures. Advises on post award spending and commitment activity. Oversees compliance related to fund and revenue.
• Downloads and monitors reports supporting project status. Participates in contract closeout process and audits inquiries.
• Coordinates and organizes events related to sponsored projects.
• Participates in and contributes to process improvements and group projects.
• Develops and communicates reports supporting project status. Creates effective forecasting and decision aids under guidance.
• Participates in contract closeout process. Submits final reports and certificates. Compiles information and documents needed for audit inquiries.
• Serves as a resource on subject area and overall technical resource to principal investigator and other University staff.

Hourly range: The hourly rate range for this position is $32.44 - $35. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.

Location and Conditions:

• Position could be considered to be fully remote.
• Employees can work in the office or remote in most locations in the US.
• Remote employees will need to have a professional and private office setting and reliable internet.
• Employees will need to be available and ready to work during business hours and have the ability to attend video meetings.

Required Documents and Additional Information:

• Resume and cover letter required (may be uploaded as one file). Please do not submit your application without these documents.
• Job openings are posted for a minimum of (5) five business days. This job may be removed from posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended, so please apply on the same business day if interested.
• USC has excellent benefits, including health benefits for staff and their family with access to the renowned university medical network; eligibility for retirement plans with employer contributions after six months of employment; tuition benefits for staff and their family; free Professional Development classes; central Los Angeles location with easy access to commuter trains, buses and free tram pick up services; discounts to sporting and other campus events.

Performs other related duties as assigned or requested. The University reserves the right to add or change duties at any time.

The University of Southern California is an Equal Opportunity Employer that Values Diversity.

Minimum Education: Bachelor's degree Combined experience/education as substitute for minimum education Minimum Experience: 1 Year Minimum Field of Expertise: A Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent combination of education and experience with broad knowledge of relevant research computer software, e.g.: Microsoft Access, Word, Excel, PowerPoint; Outlook, SPSS, Visio, and SunGard. Experience in creating and analyzing statistical reports. Must be able to utilize computer technology to access data, maintain records and generate reports. Proven oral and written communication skills to interact with other employees.