Human Resources and Payroll Coordinator

By /

Website University of Southern California

Job Overview: Human Resources and Payroll Coordinator

The University of Southern California (USC) is seeking two proactive Human Resources and Payroll Coordinators to join the Leonard Davis School of Gerontology. As the largest private employer in Los Angeles, USC offers a fast-paced environment within one of the world’s leading research hubs for aging and gerontology.

In this role, you will provide essential administrative and clerical support to the HR and Payroll Office. You will act as a key point of contact for faculty, staff, postdocs, and students, ensuring that personnel and pay-related operations run smoothly and remain compliant with university and legal standards.

Key Responsibilities & Daily Operations

Recruitment & Onboarding

  • Hiring Pipeline: Assist with job postings, resume screening, and the coordination of interviews.

  • New Hire Orientation: Lead onboarding sessions and meet with new employees to ensure all employment and payroll paperwork is completed accurately.

  • Records Management: Maintain comprehensive employee files in both paper and electronic formats, ensuring all data is current and confidential.

Payroll & Benefits Administration

  • Processing & Audits: Assist with payroll updates, processing cycles, and internal audits to ensure pay accuracy.

  • Leave Management: Support the administration of Leaves of Absence (LOA) and disability claims.

  • Reporting: Gather data and prepare reports regarding pay changes, enrollment, and specialized HR projects.

Performance & Development

  • Evaluation Support: Assist with performance management processes, including tracking evaluations and feedback sessions.

  • Training Coordination: Help organize and implement professional development and training programs for school members.

  • Policy Guidance: Help develop and communicate HR policies and procedures to ensure a consistent work environment.

Requirements & Qualifications

Mandatory Credentials

  • Education: Related undergraduate study (Bachelor’s degree preferred). Combined experience/education may be substituted.

  • Experience: Minimum of 1 year of professional experience in human resources and/or payroll.

  • Skills: Broad knowledge of HR administrative responsibilities and the ability to work autonomously while maintaining strict confidentiality.

Preferred Skills

  • Sector Expertise: Experience working specifically within a university setting with faculty and students.

  • Legal Knowledge: Familiarity with federal, state (California), and local labor laws and regulations.

  • Technical Savvy: Proficiency in HR information systems and data compilation for special projects.

  • Interpersonal Skills: Exceptional oral and written communication skills with a “problem-solver” mindset.

Compensation & Position Details

  • Hourly Rate: $26.50 – $30.00 (Determined by experience, education, and internal equity).

  • Schedule: Part-time (at least 30 hours/week).

  • Location: Initially fully on-campus (5 days/week) at the University Park Campus in Los Angeles, with potential for a hybrid arrangement later.

  • Classification: Non-exempt.

Benefits of Joining USC

Despite being part-time, this position is benefits-eligible, offering:

  • Healthcare: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans.

  • Retirement: 403(b) savings plan.

  • Time Off: Paid vacation, sick time, and observance of national holidays.

  • Community: Access to the resources of a world-class research university in the heart of Los Angeles.

Application Instructions

To be considered, you must submit a fully completed application via the USC Careers portal (Job ID: REQ20166848). Your submission must include:

  1. A Tailored Cover Letter.

  2. A Resume including Professional References.

    The Organization & Culture The University of Southern California (USC) is a leading private research university defined by its deep roots in Los Angeles and its “Trojan Family” network. In 2026, the university is in a pivotal “Journey to 100,” preparing for its centennial in 2027 under the leadership of Interim President Beong-Soo Kim. The culture is high-octane, combining elite academic rigor with a massive focus on AI-driven innovation and global social impact. USC remains one of the most competitive institutions in the country, with an acceptance rate that has dipped below 10% in recent cycles.

    The Locations: A Tale of Two Hubs

    • University Park Campus (UPC): Located south of Downtown LA, this is the historic heart of USC. It is a traditional, red-brick campus featuring the Dozheny Memorial Library, the Marshall School of Business, and the USC Village, a $700 million residential and retail center that serves as the social hub for students.

    • Health Sciences Campus (HSC): Located in Northeast LA, this campus is home to the Keck School of Medicine and the USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center. It is a world-class center for biomedical research and patient care, currently pioneering breakthrough treatments for brain cancer as of early 2026.

To apply for this job please visit www.usc.edu.