Project Specialist

University of Southern California•Los Angeles, CA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The University of Southern California (USC) School of Architecture is seeking a detail-oriented and collaborative Project Specialist to support research and project-based initiatives on the development of an innovative smog-eating facade. This is a part-time, fixed-term, grant-funded position offering a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research and academic projects in a dynamic, interdisciplinary environment. About USC School of Architecture For over a century, the USC School of Architecture has been a leader in design education, shaping the future of the built environment through innovation, research, and community engagement. Located in Los Angeles, the school is deeply connected to global networks and local communities, advancing creative solutions to complex urban and environmental challenges. Position Summary The Project Specialist provides specialized research and project support to a research project, contributing to the development, building, and operation of large-scale 3D printed prototypes, 12’ long wind tunnel, digital air flow studies of urban canyons, site identification, design-build construction of a bus shelter, research protocols, data collection, and analysis. This role may also support discrete components of larger research initiatives, including participant coordination, documentation, and reporting.

Requirements

B.Arch or M.Arch degree required
Minimum of 2–3 years of relevant experience in research, project coordination, or data analysis in building science. Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered
Proficient at working in 3D digital tools such as Rhinoceros and Grasshopper.
Proficient at using all Adobe products such as Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.
Able to edit and prepare videos for documentation and publication.
Able to make precision models and have excellent woodshop skills to build out, repair, and maintain wind tunnels and prototypes.
Has extensive experienced at 3d printing and maintenance of a desktop 3d printer.
Knows how to use testing digital platforms such as ANSYS.

Nice To Haves

Experience supporting research projects, including protocol development and data analysis
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Ability to interpret data and communicate findings clearly
Experience with statistical software or data analysis tools
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced academic environment
Good at writing and communication.

Responsibilities

Assist in the design and development of research, including recommending methods for data collection, management, and quality control.
Must work hands-on with operation and repair of wind tunnels, the design and making of large-scale prototypes, and basic construction of full-scale bus shelter.
Support data analysis efforts, including use of statistical tools and preparation of reports, charts, and summaries.
Must be familiar with ANSYS and other analysis tools.
Coordinate project activities such as building and testing of prototypes, setting up location/site, working with city and LA Metro, and tracking progress of the in situ prototype throughout the study lifecycle
Contribute to the development and maintenance of research documentation, including procedures, consent materials, and reports
Provide guidance to project staff on data collection processes and quality assurance practices
Monitor compliance with research protocols and conduct quality assurance reviews
Collaborate with faculty on research publications, presentations, and documentation of findings. This may mean preparation of diagrams, videos, and other ways of translating data into visual tools using Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator.
Stay current with relevant research trends, tools, and methodologies