Program Assistant

The University of Southern California (USC), founded in 1880, is located in the heart of downtown L.A. and is the largest private employer in the City of Los Angeles. As an employee of USC, you will be a part of a world-class research university and a member of the “Trojan Family,” which is comprised of the faculty, students and staff that make the university a great place to work.  

As a community of Dornsife College “we are committed to the creation, preservation, and communication of fundamental knowledge in all its forms…as well as a lifelong passion for learning and a commitment to the betterment of society.”  The academic mission of Dornsife College can only be realized to its fullest potential when we build and protect a representative, equitable, inclusive culture of scholarship for students, faculty, and staff.  This is not done through initiatives but by embedding these values into the everyday interactions, relationships, policies, and practices of the College.  What is required is a seamless integration of the tenets of equity and inclusivity into every facet of academic life.  If we want our scholars, staff, and students to be able to give their very best, we must create an academic environment that portends success.  

Success is possible when every member of the Dornsife community owns their role as a steward of the culture in which we learn, research, and work; when we believe that it is because of who we are that we are able to do what we do: achieve excellence, together. 

Achieving a robust and inclusive academic culture requires more than just the completion of a task, but includes that person’s capacity to contribute positively to the relationships and culture of their office or department.  Therefore, any applicant seeking to advance the mission of Dornsife College should also be assessed on their capacities beyond the technical elements of their work, and demonstrate an understanding of their impact on others, and to articulate how they contribute positively to those around them.

The Department of Latin American and Iberian Cultures seeks a 50% Program Assistant to join its team.  This individual will assist the department and the Basic Language Program (BLP); they oversee matters having to do with faculty, including confidential and sensitive information, and execute many of the daily administrative tasks that make the unit run.

The ideal candidate should be proficient in Microsoft Office applications, have knowledge of Adobe Suite and be able to multi-task in a high-energy environment, producing results while maintaining a pleasant, professional demeanor. Candidate should also have strong verbal and written communication skills, be self-motivated, and capable of working independently and as a part of a team. 

Job accountabilities include:

• Greets guests
• Oversee, organize, monitor, and expedite the workflow within the department
• Assist with reimbursement and other financial activities
• Assist with Overseas programs
• Assist with faculty affairs (recruitment, review, promotions, and merit evaluations)
• Receipt and preparation of some faculty position dossiers
• Full audit of Fall and spring course packets
• Exam preparation for language courses
• Assist with curriculum changes and additions into the online system
• Enter staffing into the schedule of classes: University (SIS) and internal Dornsife College
• Assists with event logistics, including vendors, venues, food & beverage, and speaker compensation
• Facilitates on-boarding and payment for independent contractors
• Assist with Commencement preparation

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES:

Communication – written and oral skills; working knowledge of Spanish language strongly preferred.

Machine/Equipment: Computer network (department and/or school), computer network (university). Computer peripheral equipment. Personal computer, printer, photocopier

JOB QUALIFICATIONS:

Preferred Experience: 2 Years

Minimum Field of Expertise: Administrative support services

Preferred Field of Expertise: Administrative support or program support services in directly related field.

Hourly range: The hourly rate range for this position is $23 - $24. 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.

Required Documents and Additional Information:

• Resume and cover letter required (may be uploaded as one file).
• Job openings are posted for a minimum of (5) five business days. This job may be removed from posting boards and filled any time after the minimum posting period has ended, so please apply on the same business day if interested.
• USC has excellent benefits, including health benefits for staff and their family with access to the renowned 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; central Los Angeles location with easy access to commuter trains, buses and free tram pick up services; discounts to sporting and other campus events.

Performs other related duties as assigned or requested. The university reserves the right to add or change duties at any time.

The University of Southern California is an Equal Opportunity Employer that Values Diversity.

Minimum Education: Bachelor's degree, Combined experience/education as substitute for minimum education Minimum Experience: 1 year, Combined education/experience as substitute for minimum experience Minimum Field of Expertise: Administrative support services