Associate Research Administrator

University of Southern California • Los Angeles, CA

3d • $42 - $44

About The Position

The Dana and David Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences Research Office at the University of Southern California is seeking an Associate Research Administrator to support day-to-day contracts and grants administrative operations. The role supports principal investigators and university teams throughout the research project lifecycle, from proposal preparation and budget development through award setup, project monitoring, and contract closeout. It also provides guidance on university and government policies, serves as a technical resource, contributes to process improvements, and may mentor or cross-train staff.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree, or combined experience and education as a substitute for the minimum education requirement.
• At least 3 years of experience.
• Basic knowledge of governmental regulations.
• Strong accounting skills and financial acumen.
• Competency in project management.
• Broad knowledge of relevant research computer software, including Microsoft Access, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, SPSS, Visio, and SunGard.
• Experience creating and analyzing statistical reports.
• Ability to use computer technology to access data, maintain records, and generate reports.
• Strong interpersonal and verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to follow through on assigned tasks within established time frames and with minimal supervision in a fast-paced environment.
• Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
• Skill using Microsoft Office, especially Excel, other internet applications such as search engines and online portals, and similar software.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality when handling sensitive information.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, preferably Accounting or Finance; combined experience and education may be considered as a substitute.
• Four years of experience preferred.
• Educational administrative experience.
• Directly related contracts and grants administration experience.
• Knowledge of procurement needs, including sole-sourcing, cost analyses, vendor requirements, and small business reporting.
• Ability to review a proposal or manage a project with an understanding of the sponsored project’s overall scope and goal.

Responsibilities

• Participate with principal investigators in preparing the administrative components of proposals in accordance with sponsored and non-sponsored research guidelines.
• Develop, prepare, and finalize project budgets.
• Review and approve expenditures.
• Serve as the primary liaison and active partner among principal investigators, the Office of Sponsored Research, research groups, and other departments.
• Collaborate with the Office of Sponsored Research to ensure awards are set up properly and cost-sharing requirements are fulfilled.
• Develop and communicate reports supporting project status.
• Participate in the contract closeout process.
• Understand, apply, and advise on university and government policies for projects.
• Serve as a subject-area resource and technical resource for principal investigators and other university staff.
• Participate in and contribute to process improvements.
• Participate as a mentor and provide cross-training as necessary.
• Create and analyze statistical reports.
• Use computer technology to access data, maintain records, and generate reports.
• Maintain confidentiality when handling sensitive information, including student, staff, and faculty files.
• Perform other related duties as assigned or requested.

Benefits

• Health benefits for staff and their family, with access to the 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.
• Access to commuter trains and buses and free tram pickup services.
• Discounts to sporting and other campus events.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level