Career Center

The University of Southern California (USC), founded in 1880, is located in the heart of downtown Los Angeles and is the largest private employer in the City of Los Angeles. As an employee of USC, you will be 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 what it is.

The USC Stevens Center for Innovation is seeking to hire a creative, enthusiastic, high-energy and detail-oriented Office Technology Specialist to join its team. Supporting the University's strategic goal of "Cultivating the Entrepreneurial Spirit," USC Stevens leads university initiatives that empower USC faculty and students to maximize the impact of their research and scholarship by creating successful relationships with investors, corporations, and other private entities, as well as initiating start-up companies (http://stevens.usc.edu). USC Stevens is unique as it is partially endowed by a generous donation from USC trustee and Sequoia Capital partner Mark Stevens, reports to the Vice President of Research, and has the full support of the USC Provost.

If you are seeking a once in a lifetime opportunity to be creative in a collaborative environment that supports the flow of faculty, staff, and student innovations into society, please apply. This opportunity will allow you to explore new approaches to traditional technology transfer practices in an entrepreneurial, fun culture within an already bold and forward-thinking academic institution.

JOB SUMMARY:

The USC Stevens Center for Innovation is seeking an individual with expertise in data management and reporting using specialized systems and databases for a department or unit. This person will provide general administration, data integrity, reporting, assigning disclosures, user training and support, and special projects related to USC Stevens’ knowledge management system Sophia by Wellspring. This person will also be responsible for supporting computer systems (Macs and PCs), voice systems, audio visual, and other information technology related platforms. This person will provide support, assistance and advice in the use of computer hardware, software and networks, phones, audio visual and other information technology devices and systems to all staff members.

JOB ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Maintains and/or implements specialized unit or departmental database(s), systems and related records. Enters and/or verifies database transactions. Provides technical support and advises users or works with team members on matters pertaining to access, data integrity, data security, policies and procedures, development of system and design of enhancements.

• Generates reports, sets up and/or designs detailed reports, documents and spreadsheets of a technical or specialized nature using software and/or basic programming skills. Monitors formats and output for effectiveness and reliability.

• Gathers and organizes data and/or records for internal or external reporting purposes such as audits and investigations. Contacts appropriate sources for information. Prepares, analyzes and refines data and/or evaluates for accuracy and consistency. Analyzes and evaluates data for purposes of resolving issues or policies and procedures or recommending action for resolution of various matters.

• Documents and controls access based on department needs of the system.

• Develops and implements security procedures and policies. Monitors system(s) to ensure user adherence.

• Researches records and gathers information for various matters such as background for special projects, enhancement of databases, decisions on requests for policy exceptions, establishing rates, determining costs, resolving various issues for faculty, staff and/or students, providing management reports, etc.

• Prepares correspondence and/or memorandums to concerned personnel.

• Trains users or oversees others training users on database application functions and related records and/or programs.

• Serves as liaison with various campus units and/or external agencies for information exchange, to ensure accuracy and consistency of data and/or to resolve issues.

• Performs analytical, technical and administrative work to plan, design and install networked and stand-alone computer systems for computer user rooms, computer classrooms, offices, etc. Provides replacement recommendations and budget estimates as requested. May assist with assigned area’s technology asset management.

• Analyzes user needs and evaluates new products; recommends hardware and software purchases. Collaborates with other units to improve access to and maximize use of computing resources.

• Installs and troubleshoots software and hardware. Performs backup and system restore procedures as assigned.

• Provides technical support, assistance and consultation to staff and/or lower level consultants on assigned areas. Answers questions on-site or via telephone. Manages user accounts, provides permissions/email account sharing, and creates/deletes shared server folders. Resolves, escalates or refers technical problems as appropriate.

• Develops documentation, user procedures and security procedures. Contributes to the establishment and maintenance of software and documentation libraries.

• Conducts hands-on training sessions and instructional classes in hardware and software applications for staff.

• Stays informed of new developments and technologies by reading journals and other pertinent publications, maintaining contact with vendors, and participating in professional organizations, meetings and seminars.

• Works closely with Director of Operations to plan, forecast, and monitor information systems-related budgets.

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

Job Qualifications:

       Education

• Bachelor’s degree or combined experience/education

Experience

• 2 years directly applicable experience

• Demonstrated understanding of computer hardware, software, networks, and troubleshooting

• Self-starter with the initiative and ability to complete tasks under pressure and with minimal supervision

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

Preferred Qualifications:

Education

• Bachelor’s degree

Experience

• 3 years directly applicable experience

• Expertise in computing environments

• Specific support experience with networks, workstations, wireless communications, security software and procedures, audio visual equipment and systems, voice systems

• Experience in installing and maintaining servers and networks

• Self-starter with the initiative and ability to complete tasks under pressure and with minimal supervision

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

• 1 year of experience working with knowledge management systems/databases and MySQL or other report writing languages

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

As part of the application, candidates must upload the following documents (PDF format): 1) a cover letter, 2) Resume (including telephone and e-mail address).