Program Specialist

Position Description The USC Schwarzenegger Institute for State and Global Policy 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 collaborative, detail‑oriented role 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. Key Responsibilities Event Production and Management 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 align with sponsor expectations. Financial and Administrative Operations 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. Policy and Project Support 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. External Engagement 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. Qualifications 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. Preferred Qualifications Familiarity with USC systems and administrative processes. Knowledge of Governor Schwarzenegger’s policy priorities and initiatives. Travel Regular travel within greater Los Angeles; occasional domestic and international travel in support of Institute initiatives and Governor Schwarzenegger’s public policy commitments. Must possess a valid passport for domestic and international travel. Compensation The hourly range for this position is $32.43 - $35.00. Compensation is determined by factors including scope, responsibilities, candidate experience, education, and market considerations. Work Arrangement This is a fully on‑site work arrangement on the University Park Campus. Minimum Qualifications 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 Required Documents and Additional Information A resume and cover letter are required (may be uploaded as one file). Applications submitted without these documents will not be considered. Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to the Background Screening Policy, Appendix D, for specific employment screening implications related to this position. #J-18808-Ljbffr