USC Job Posting – Research Associate Administrator

The mission of the USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work is to enhance the well-being of vulnerable individuals and communities, promote social and economic justice, and address pressing societal issues in complex and culturally diverse urban environments across Southern California, the nation, and the world . Innovative and impactful research is central to the school’s mission and is supported through grants and contracts from federal and other sources . Our research funding portfolio currently exceeds $40 million in total costs, with much of the funding coming from federal sources.

The USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work is currently in search of an Associate Research Administrator with a strong work ethic, excellent organizational skills, and a passion for delivering top-notch customer service. The ideal candidate will be dependable, motivated, and eager to provide support for our expanding research enterprise.

This position is housed at the USC UPC campus. The person in this position will work with faculty, PhD students, center directors and central staff in the USC Department of Contracts and Grants and Sponsored Project Accounting . The position will have a hybrid work option under the current work arrangement.

The c Ore Accountabilities Of The Position Include

• Participates with principal investigator in the preparation of the administrative components of 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.
• Develops, prepares, and finalizes project budgets. Provides budget justification .
• 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 approves expenditures. Advises on post award spending and commitment activity. Oversees compliance related to fund and revenue.
• Develops and communicates reports supporting project status. Creates effective f orecasting and decision aids.
• Participates in contract closeout process. Submits final reports and certificates . Compiles information and documents needed for audit inquiries.
• Understands, applies, and advises on University , and government policies for projects.
• Serves as a resource on subject area and overall technical resource to principal investigator and other University staff.
• Participates in and contributes to process improvements. Leads other staff in group projects.
• Participates as a mentor and provides cross-training, as necessary.
• Performs other related duties as assigned or requested . The University reserves the right to add or change duties at any time.

Experience And Qualifications

Minimum Education:

Bachelor’s degree

Combined experience/education as substitute for minimum education

Minimum Experience:

3 years

Minimum Field of Expertise:

• Basic knowledge of governmental regulations. Strong accounting skills.
• Competency in project management.
• A Bachelor’s Degree 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.

The ideal candidate should have a high degree of proficiency in research administration and a deep understanding of governmental regulations such as FAR, Uniform Guidance, and CAS. They should also possess proficient familiarity with electronic research administration platforms such as Grants.gov, eRA Commons, NIH ASSIST, NSF, DOJ, Proposal Central, etc .

Moreover, the candidate must have experience in working effectively with principal investigators (PIs) and their administrative staff. They should be mission-driven and understand the importance of research to PIs and the School. Excellent communication skills, including strong written and verbal English proficiency , along with tact, diplomacy, and flexibility, are essential. The candidate must possess the ability to independently comprehend , interpret, and communicate complex policies and procedures.

The candidate should also be a self-starter with exceptional organizational skills to manage multiple deadlines, demonstrate success in performing meticulous, high-quality, and compliant work, and be committed to delivering excellent customer service. Additionally, the candidate should have a strong attention to detail, a results-oriented mindset, and the ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team. Finally, the candidate should be willing to learn and adapt to new systems and technologies as required .

The Associate Research Administrator reports to the Associate Dean of Finance and Administration. The position will work closely with the both the budget/finance and research staff to ensure comprehensive and successful support for research administration .

The hourly rate for this position is $40.00. 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

We look forward to reviewing your application!

Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree Combined experience/education as substitute for minimum education Minimum Experience: 3 years Minimum Field of Expertise: Basic knowledge of governmental regulations. Strong accounting skills. Competency in project management. A Bachelor’s Degree 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.