Project Specialist

USC School of Architecture

The University of Southern California (USC) School of Architecture is seeking a detail-oriented and collaborative Project Specialist to support research and project-based initiatives on the development of an innovative smog-eating facade. This is a part-time, fixed-term, grant-funded position offering a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research and academic projects in a dynamic, interdisciplinary environment.

About USC School of Architecture

For over a century, the USC School of Architecture has been a leader in design education, shaping the future of the built environment through innovation, research, and community engagement. Located in Los Angeles, the school is deeply connected to global networks and local communities, advancing creative solutions to complex urban and environmental challenges.

Position Summary

The Project Specialist provides specialized research and project support to a research project, contributing to the development, building, and operation of large-scale 3D printed prototypes, 12' long wind tunnel, digital air flow studies of urban canyons, site identification, design-build construction of a bus shelter, research protocols, data collection, and analysis. This role may also support discrete components of larger research initiatives, including participant coordination, documentation, and reporting.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the design and development of research, including recommending methods for data collection, management, and quality control. Must work hands-on with operation and repair of wind tunnels, the design and making of large-scale prototypes, and basic construction of full-scale bus shelter.
• Support data analysis efforts, including use of statistical tools and preparation of reports, charts, and summaries. Must be familiar with ANSYS and other analysis tools.
• Coordinate project activities such as building and testing of prototypes, setting up location/site, working with city and LA Metro, and tracking progress of the in situ prototype throughout the study lifecycle
• Contribute to the development and maintenance of research documentation, including procedures, consent materials, and reports
• Provide guidance to project staff on data collection processes and quality assurance practices
• Monitor compliance with research protocols and conduct quality assurance reviews
• Collaborate with faculty on research publications, presentations, and documentation of findings. This may mean preparation of diagrams, videos, and other ways of translating data into visual tools using Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator.
• Stay current with relevant research trends, tools, and methodologies

Minimum Qualifications

• B.Arch or M.Arch degree required
• Minimum of 2-3 years of relevant experience in research, project coordination, or data analysis in building science.
• Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered
• Proficient at working in 3D digital tools such as Rhinoceros and Grasshopper.
• Proficient at using all Adobe products such as Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.
• Able to edit and prepare videos for documentation and publication.
• Able to make precision models and have excellent woodshop skills to build out, repair, and maintain wind tunnels and prototypes.
• Has extensive experienced at 3d printing and maintenance of a desktop 3d printer.
• Knows how to use testing digital platforms such as ANSYS.

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Experience supporting research projects, including protocol development and data analysis
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Ability to interpret data and communicate findings clearly
• Experience with statistical software or data analysis tools
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced academic environment'
• Good at writing and communication.

Additional Information

• Schedule: Part-time (hours may vary based on project needs)
• Appointment Type: Fixed-term, grant-funded
• FLSA Status: Non-exempt
• This position may support time-sensitive research initiatives and requires flexibility to meet project deadlines

Why Join USC?

USC is a world-class research university and a vibrant community committed to excellence, innovation, and public service. At the School of Architecture, you'll work alongside leading scholars and practitioners shaping the future of design and the built environment.

In addition, the successful candidate must also demonstrate, through ideas, words and actions, a strong commitment to USC's Unifying Values.

The hourly range for this position is $36.92. 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 alignment, federal, state and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.

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Minimum Education:

Bachelor's degree

Additional Education Requirements

Combined experience/education as substitute for minimum education

Minimum Experience:

2 years

Minimum Skills:

Directly related education and experience to be able to advise on project procedures and analysis techniques.

USC is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy. USC observes affirmative action obligations consistent with state and federal law. 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.

We provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. Applicants with questions about access or requiring a reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process should contact USC Human Resources by phone at (213) 821-8100, or by email at uschr@usc.edu. Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law.

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