Program Administrator

For your application to be considered, please attach a cover letter and resume to your employment application.

The Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) programs at theUniversity of Southern Californiaare nationally recognized for collegiate officer commissioning programs housed within the Sol Price School of Public Policy. USC's Air Force, Army, and Naval ROTC programs prepare undergraduate and graduate students for commissioned service in the United States Armed Forces through an integrated model of academic instruction, leadership development, and professional military education. The programs emphasize ethical leadership, critical thinking, and public service, preparing students to lead effectively in complex national security and global environments.

The ROTC programs operate through formal partnerships between the university and the U.S. Department of Defense, ensuring alignment with institutional academic standards and federal military requirements. In addition to delivering accredited academic coursework, the programs administer leadership laboratories, physical training, professional development activities, and ceremonial functions essential to officer preparation. ROTC faculty and staff collaborate extensively with campus partners to support student recruitment, academic advising, retention, scholarship administration, and commissioning processes. A dedicated administrative and instructional team supports program operations, fiscal oversight, compliance, and large-scale events, including commissioning and university commencement. Collectively, the ROTC programs play a critical role in advancing USC's mission of public service, civic leadership, and national engagement.

Position Description

The USC Sol Price School of Public Policy is seeking a Program Administrator to administer an academic or administrative program in support of the Price School's ROTC programs. The Program Administrator is responsible for planning, coordinating, and scheduling program services and overseeing program operations and administrative functions, including budgeting, policy administration, marketing, outreach, and service delivery. This is a hybrid work arrangement position.

The Program Administrator contributes to the design and implementation of program content, operating procedures, and strategic planning initiatives to ensure program effectiveness, quality, and long-term success. This role collaborates closely with internal and external stakeholders and serves as a key institutional resource for program information, coordination, and problem resolution. The Program Administrator may oversee staff, student workers, volunteers, agencies, and/or resource employees, as assigned.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, administering the daily operations of the program; planning and developing program objectives and content; researching and identifying trends and needs to establish program direction; assessing the quality of program operations; and modifying existing services or creating new program offerings to enhance program standing. The Program Administrator develops and administers program operating and administrative policies, manages the dissemination and interpretation of policies, and recommends or approves exceptions as appropriate.

Additional responsibilities include managing the delivery of services to program participants or beneficiaries by establishing program priorities, communicating performance standards, and conducting quality assurance reviews. The Program Administrator develops and conducts program-focused training, assesses trainee proficiency or readiness, and provides leadership and guidance to staff and affiliated personnel. The role also includes developing and administering program budgets, recommending or making resource allocations, providing financial status reports, and supporting marketing, outreach, and promotional efforts such as event planning, publications, and networking activities.

The Program Administrator serves as a central point of contact for program-related information and resolves complex issues referred by program staff, university administrators, or external constituents. The position may also identify fundraising and development opportunities, support grant writing or proposal development, and maintain awareness of developments in the field through professional engagement and ongoing learning.

The Program Administrator is expected to manage multiple projects simultaneously, establish priorities, and maintain operational timelines in a dynamic environment. This position requires independent judgment, discretion, and strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills to manage sensitive academic, financial, and institutional information. The Program Administrator functions as an integral member of the university's administrative team in a deadline-driven, mission-focused environment.

A minimum of three years of directly related professional experience is required.

A Bachelor's degree is required, and a Master's degree is preferred. This position may oversee staff or student workers, as assigned, and reports to the appropriate program or departmental leadership.

Qualifications

• Applicants must hold a Bachelor's degree.

• Outstanding interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills, with exemplary attention to detail.

• Demonstrated professional experience related to program administration or management.

• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to manage complex program operations, policies, budgets, and service delivery.

• Ability to communicate effectively with diverse internal and external stakeholders.

• Ability to exercise independent judgment and discretion in program administration.

• Proven project management and ability to manage multiple timelines, changing priorities, and fluctuating workloads.

• Demonstrated ability to plan and coordinate program lectures, symposia, conferences, events, travel, and program-related expenses.

• Experience in planning large-scale events.

• Experience in Blackboard Learn, Zoom, and Microsoft 365

• Ability to supervise student staff and volunteers, as needed.

Compensation

The hourly rate range for this position is$88,006.01 - $100,368.47. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors including, but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience, education, and training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state, and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, and external market and organizational considerations.

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

Minimum Qualifications

Experience in Blackboard Learn, Zoom, and Microsoft 365. Proven financial budgeting, project management, and problem-solving skills. Ability to manage multiple timelines, changing priorities, and fluctuating workloads.

Minimum Education

A Bachelor's degree is required. Master's degree preferred.

Minimum Experience

Minimum of three (3) years of directly related professional experience in the area of program specialization.

Minimum Field of Expertise

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.

• USC offers excellent benefits, including health benefits for staff and their families with access to the renowned university medical network; eligibility for retirement plans with employer contributions*; tuition benefits for staff and their families; free professional development classes; a central Los Angeles location with easy access to commuter trains, buses, and free tram pickup services; and discounts to sporting and other campus events.

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 screen implications related to this position.