Clinical Research Program Specialist

For more than 75 years, the University of Southern California has been working to ensure that people of every age and from every circumstance can live life to the fullest. Throughout the decades, Trojans near and far have advanced the profession of occupational therapy and the research discipline of occupational science. Today, the USC Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy proudly carries this legacy forward as we aim to improve the quality of life of people and communities across the world.

We have a shared purpose here at USC Chan. Together, our researchers, educators, clinicians, students and alumni are dedicated to optimizing the engagement of people — especially those with disability, injury, illness, unhealthy lifestyles or chronic conditions — in the ordinary and extraordinary activities of life.

Job Summary

The Clinical Research Program Specialist plans and implements services and activities for three NIH-funded clinical research programs within the Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy. This role provides administrative and operational support to the research teams to ensure the successful execution of program objectives and compliance with institutional, federal, and funding requirements. The specialist plays a key role in participant recruitment, data collection, and research coordination to advance the division's research mission.

Job Accountabilities

• Program Coordination – Coordinates clinical research administrative functions, schedules meetings, tracks deadlines, and develops organizational systems. Serves as a key point of contact for research programs and manages correspondence and information requests.
• Participant Recruitment & Data Collection – Screens, recruits, and consents participants in English and Spanish, including off-site recruitment throughout the Los Angeles area and virtual interactions via Zoom. Oversees data collection, processing, and analysis to ensure accuracy and integrity.
• Research Support – Supports the development and implementation of research activities, assists with literature reviews, and contributes to data summaries, presentations, and reports. Ensures compliance with NIH, IRB, and university research standards.
• Financial & Administrative Support – Assists in tracking budgets, processing research-related transactions, and resolving financial discrepancies as part of grant management.
• Outreach & Communication – Participates in program communications, materials development, and event coordination to promote research visibility.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree preferred.
• Experience: Minimum two years of experience in research coordination or related work. Equivalent education and experience may be substituted.

• Skills & Competencies:

• Proficiency in both English and Spanish (verbal and written).

• Strong organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Experience recruiting and consenting human subjects for research.
• Ability to manage multiple projects, meet deadlines, and ensure compliance with research protocols.
• Experience working in academic or clinical research environments preferred.

Additional Information

This position supports three NIH-funded research projects and is critical for the successful conduct of the studies, research continuity, and faculty advancement. The incumbent must uphold the highest standards of research integrity, safety, and compliance. Some local travel within Los Angeles will be required for participant recruitment and data collection.

The hourly rate range for this position is $ $39.36. 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.

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, and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to the Background Screening Policy Appendix D for specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying.

Plans and implements services and activities of clinical research programs. Provides administrative and/or operational support to team members or managers responsible for program development and performance to ensure overall success.