Development Research Coordinator

The University of Southern California (USC), founded in 1880, is in the heart of downtown L.A. and is the largest private employer in the city of Los Angeles. As an employee of USC, you will be a part of a world-class research university and a member of the "Trojan Family," which comprises the faculty, students, and staff that make the university a prime place to learn, grow, and succeed.

University Advancement is committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive culture in which all advancement staff and our stakeholders have the opportunity to connect, belong, and grow while supporting the University of Southern California’s mission, values, and goals.

University Advancement is seeking a Development Research Coordinator to join its Development Research team. The Development Research team performs specialized background research and due diligence in support of the University’s fundraising priorities, operating as a critical partner to both central Advancement (University Advancement) and the University’s wider advancement community. Reporting to the Associate Director, Development Research, the incumbent will produce research content and collateral in support of larger development research initiatives to further USC’s fundraising goals.

The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and succeeds through administrative excellence, collaboration, attention to detail, open communication, continuous improvement, and a commitment to quality in all undertakings, for self and with others.

This is a hybrid position under our current work arrangement plan, with the expectation of on-site presence in our downtown Los Angeles office (USC Tower).

Responsibilities

Write, edit, and fact-check personalized reports and bios on important donors and prospects for senior university officials in preparation for major events, dinners, and other interactions.

Ensure that all research queries and requests are answered efficiently and tracked effectively.

Partner with colleagues in Data Integrity to ensure updated biographical information in constituent database.

Collaborate with colleagues throughout Advancement to ensure alignment and efficiency in prospect identification and qualification, as well as pipeline movement.

Maintain editorial writing quality/style guidelines according to AP Style/USC Style guides.

Ensure adherence to ethical development research practices and applicable data privacy laws and regulations, including but not limited to FERPA, GDPR, and HIPAA.

Perform other duties, as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree.

Combined experience/education as substitute for minimum education.

Two years of development research, prospect management, or prospect development experience in a higher education, healthcare, or complex non-profit environment; or comparable experience in a relevant field associated with research and writing.

The ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion.

A passion for excellent customer service, commitment to exceptional quality, and the ability to complete projects and achieve goals in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with fundraising CRMs (preferably Salesforce) and wealth screening.

Familiarity with the suite of online resources used in the course of development research, including but not limited to iWave/PRO, LexisNexis, and RelSci.

A strategic thinker who is effective in moving strategic agendas and politically savvy.

The ability to work well with all levels of management, both internally and externally, be flexible in nature, and have a sound judgment with a collaborative style that fosters teamwork and cooperation beyond the immediate team to the broader organization.

Required Documents and Additional Information

Resume and cover letter required (may be uploaded as one file). Please do not submit your application without these documents.

The budgeted hourly rate range for this position is $32.64 – $35.90. 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 has excellent benefits, including health benefits for staff & their family with access to the renowned university medical network; eligibility for retirement plans with employer contributions once you meet Program's eligibility; tuition benefits for staff & their family; free professional development online courses; central Los Angeles location with easy access to commuter trains, buses & free tram pick up services; discounts to football, basketball & other campus events.

The University of Southern California values diversity and is committed to equal opportunity in employment.

Minimum Education: Bachelor's degree Addtional Education Requirements Combined experience/education as substitute for minimum education Minimum Experience: 2 years Minimum Skills: Administrative office experience including research and customer service. Preferred Education: Bachelor's degree Preferred Experience: 3 years Preferred Skills: Development or market research experience.