Operations Associate, USC and Techstars Digital Economy Program Spring 2025

As an Operations Associate at the USC and Techstars Digital Economy Program, you'll be responsible for engaging with Techstars founders, planning activities and events that drive startup success, coordinating schedules for mentors and partners, and executing office logistics. Your role will also involve supporting the event planning leading up to Demo Day, ensuring everything runs smoothly.

To qualify for the Operations Associate position at USC and Techstars, candidates must be USC alumni with a bachelor’s degree and 1-3 years of experience in project or program management, preferably in a fast-paced environment. A strong interest in technology, startups, and venture capital is preferred, along with proven attention to detail and event planning skills.

The Operations Associate position at the USC and Techstars Digital Economy Program is a full-time, temporary role with a duration from mid-February to mid-June 2025. This opportunity allows you to immerse yourself in the startup ecosystem for a concentrated period.

Yes, as an Operations Associate, travel may be necessary for out-of-town programming. Flexibility and a willingness to travel will help you gain more insights and experiences as you work closely with various startups and mentors.

The compensation for the Operations Associate position at the USC and Techstars Digital Economy Program ranges from $2,800 to $3,000 monthly. This competitive pay reflects the value of your contributions and the incredible experience you will gain during the program.

To effectively answer this question, highlight your organizational skills and time management techniques. Describe how you assess urgency based on deadlines, stakeholder needs, and program priorities, ensuring that critical tasks align with the goals of the USC and Techstars Digital Economy Program.

Discuss a specific event you organized, detailing your role, the planning process, and the outcome. Emphasize your problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and how you ensured the event met its objectives—a key aspect of the Operations Associate position.

Prepare to share an example where you encountered an unexpected issue and how you tackled it. Focus on your ability to remain calm, think on your feet, and communicate effectively with your team to implement a quick solution, reflecting the adaptability required for the role at USC and Techstars.

Articulate your passion for innovation and entrepreneurship. Reference Techstars’ mission and how its culture resonates with you. Mention any specific programs or successes that inspire you, demonstrating your commitment to contributing to the USC and Techstars Digital Economy Program.

Reflect on any previous roles or internships in startups or entrepreneurial environments. Discuss how that experience has equipped you with a flexible mindset, a proactive approach, and insights into the unique challenges faced by early-stage ventures as you prepare to work at USC and Techstars.

Share specific tools and methodologies you've used in project management—such as Agile or Kanban. Highlight your experience in planning, tracking progress, and collaborating with stakeholders to achieve goals, all crucial for the Operations Associate role.

Explain your approach to relationship-building, emphasizing active listening, empathy, and a genuine interest in others’ stories and challenges. Discuss how you'll leverage these relationships to enhance the program’s success and foster collaboration within the USC and Techstars community.

Demonstrate your knowledge of Techstars by mentioning its pioneering role in startup acceleration, its focus on mentorship, funding opportunities, and the value it brings to entrepreneurs. Link this understanding to how it informs your enthusiasm for the Operations Associate position.

Share your insights on preparation, timing, and communication as key factors in a successful Demo Day. Emphasize the importance of a well-structured presentation and engagement with investors, aligning your answer with the responsibilities of the Operations Associate at USC and Techstars.

Discuss your people-oriented approach and how your adaptability and creativity will enhance Techstars' supportive environment. Highlight past experiences where you've fostered collaboration and positivity among your colleagues, which aligns with the values of USC and Techstars.