Program Specialist

University of Southern California • Los Angeles, CA

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The USC Schwarzenegger Institute is seeking a Program Specialist to provide comprehensive operational and programmatic support across four core functional areas: event planning and execution, financial and administrative operations, policy research and project coordination, and external stakeholder engagement. This is a collaborative, detail-oriented role that offers meaningful exposure to public policy initiatives and Institute leadership. The ideal candidate brings strong organizational skills, intellectual curiosity, and a genuine commitment to impactful policy work. The Program Specialist functions as a key member of the Institute’s administrative and programmatic team in a deadline-driven, mission-focused environment. This position reports to the Director of the Schwarzenegger Institute, is full-time, benefits eligible with a fully on-site work arrangement on the University Park Campus.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in public policy, political science, international relations, business administration, or a related field.
• General knowledge of government structures and the public policy landscape.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with attention to detail.
• Experience supporting administrative, financial, or operational functions.
• Experience assisting with event coordination or program support.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities with professionalism and discretion.
• Experience with Zoom, Canva, and Microsoft 365.
• Proven financial budgeting, project management, and problem solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple timelines, changing priorities, and fluctuating workloads.
• Minimum Education: Bachelor's degree.
• Combined experience and education may be used to substitute for minimum education requirements.
• Minimum Experience: Two years.
• Combined education and experience may be used to substitute for the minimum experience requirement.
• Minimum Field of Expertise: Public Policy; Political Science; Public Administration, Administrative
• Must possess a valid passport for domestic and international travel.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with USC systems and administrative processes.
• Knowledge of Governor Schwarzenegger’s policy priorities and initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning and execution of Institute events, including venue selection, vendor coordination, logistics, run-of-show development, and guest experience.
• Collaborate with senior staff to shape event concepts and serve as the primary point of contact for stakeholders throughout the planning process.
• Prepare and manage event presentation materials, including slide decks, digital content, and supporting media for programs and convenings.
• Track and analyze event participation and outcomes to support reporting requirements and alignment with sponsor expectations.
• Manage Institute financial operations in accordance with USC policies and systems, including processing invoices and reimbursements, monitoring budgets, and facilitating procurement.
• Oversee onboarding and payment of external vendors in alignment with USC business and procurement procedures.
• Serve as a liaison to USC administrative offices and ensure compliance with university policies and procedures.
• Conduct policy research and analysis to inform Institute initiatives, and develop briefings, memoranda, and talking points for senior staff.
• Monitor, track, and coordinate project deliverables and timelines across internal teams and external partners, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities and timely execution of key initiatives.
• Draft and edit correspondence and communications on behalf of the Institute and senior staff, ensuring consistency with institutional priorities and messaging.
• Represent the Institute at meetings and public engagements with government officials, partners, and external stakeholders.
• Help strategize, produce, and publish social media posts and responses.
• Performs other related duties as assigned or requested.
• The university reserves the right to add or changes duties at any time.

Benefits

• health benefits for staff and their families with access to the renowned university medical network
• eligibility for retirement plans with employer contributions
• tuition benefits for staff and their families
• free professional development classes
• a central Los Angeles location with easy access to commuter trains, buses, and free tram pickup services
• discounts to sporting and other campus events

What This Job Offers

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