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How much do associate research administrator jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate research administrator in the United States is $82,164.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,500.00 and $112,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Associate Research Administrator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Associate Research Administrator, you need a solid understanding of grant management, budgeting, and compliance regulations, often supported by a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. Familiarity with grant management software, electronic research administration systems, and knowledge of federal and institutional funding guidelines is typical. Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders are crucial soft skills. These skills ensure accurate grant administration, regulatory compliance, and smooth coordination between research teams and funding agencies.

What does an Associate Research Administrator do?

An Associate Research Administrator assists in managing the administrative aspects of research projects within an organization, such as universities or hospitals. Their responsibilities typically include helping with grant applications, ensuring compliance with regulations, tracking budgets, and coordinating with researchers and external agencies. They play a key role in supporting the research process by handling paperwork, deadlines, and communication. This position is often an entry or mid-level role, providing foundational experience in research administration.

Do I need a PhD to be a research associate?

A research associate position typically does not require a PhD; most roles require at least a bachelor's or master's degree in a relevant field. Advanced degrees may be preferred for certain research areas or senior positions, but entry-level research associate roles often focus on relevant skills and experience rather than doctoral qualifications.

What is the highest paying administrative job?

In the administrative field, executive-level roles such as Chief Administrative Officer or Director of Administration tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures. These positions typically require extensive experience, advanced skills, and often involve overseeing multiple departments or strategic planning.

What does a Research Administrator do?

A Research Administrator manages the administrative aspects of research projects, including budgeting, compliance, grant applications, and reporting. They coordinate between researchers, funding agencies, and institutional departments to ensure projects adhere to policies and deadlines, often using specialized software and requiring strong organizational skills.

What are some typical challenges faced by Associate Research Administrators in managing multiple projects simultaneously?

Associate Research Administrators often juggle several research projects at once, each with its own deadlines, compliance requirements, and funding guidelines. A common challenge is prioritizing tasks effectively while ensuring all documentation and reporting are completed accurately and on time. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and proactive communication with principal investigators and research teams help manage these complexities. Regular check-ins with team members and using project management tools can also support efficient workflow.

What is an associate administrator?

An associate research administrator is a professional who supports the management of research projects, including budgeting, compliance, and reporting. They often work in academic or research institutions and may assist with grant applications, contract negotiations, and ensuring adherence to funding agency requirements.
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Associate Research Administrator jobs near you
Associate Research Administrator

Associate Research Administrator

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$43 - $51.87/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 19 days ago

University Of Southern California rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 50 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

97th of 544 rated colleges and universities

Job description

The Keck School of Medicine (KSOM) of USC is seeking an experienced Associate Research Administrator to join the KSOM Office of Research Administration serving the research community of the Keck School of Medicine.

Major Job Responsibilities

  • Prepares complex proposals within parameters of sponsored and non-sponsored research guidelines.

  • Develops, prepares, revises, and finalizes project budgets, and provides budget justification.

  • Collaborates with the Sponsored Research Offices to ensure awards are set up properly, including cost-sharing requirements.

  • Reviews grant expenditures

  • Develops and communicates reports supporting project status. Creates effective forecasting and decision aids.

  • Manages contract closeout process and audits inquiries.

  • Serves as a Research Administration subject matter expert.

  • Interprets complex University and government policies.

  • Identifies and implements process improvements.

  • May negotiate and communicate with federal and state sponsors, industry sponsors, other institutions, and/or University schools or divisions in regard to application issues.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree

  • Three or more years of experience with sponsored research, NIH preferred

  • Proficient in Excel and MS Office

  • Enjoys teamwork and team building

  • Excels at professional written and verbal communication skills

  • Ability to work in a deadline driven environment and balance competing priorities

  • Previous work experience in an academic/university and/or research setting

The hourly rate range for this position is between $43.00 - 51.87. 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 members & their families with access to the renowned university medical network; eligibility for retirement plans; tuition benefits for staff members & their families; free professional development online courses; Los Angeles location with easy access to commuter trains, buses & free tram pick up services; discounts to football, basketball & other campus events. To view more information, please visit: https://employees.usc.edu/benefits-perks/

Required Application Documents: Cover Letter and CV/Resume

Minimum Education:
Bachelor's degree
Combined experience/education as substitute for minimum education
Minimum Experience:
3 years
Minimum Field of Expertise:
Basic knowledge of governmental regulations. Strong accounting skills. Competency in
project management. A Bachelor's Degree with broad knowledge of relevant research
computer software, e.g.: Microsoft Access, Word, Excel, PowerPoint; Outlook, SPSS,
Visio, and SunGard. Experience in creating and analyzing statistical reports. Must be able
to utilize computer technology to access data, maintain records and generate reports.
Proven oral and written communication skills to interact with other employees.

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 theBackground Screening Policy Appendix Dfor 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 atuschr@usc.edu. Inquiries will be treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law.

  • Notice of Non-discrimination
  • Employment Equity
  • Read USC's Clery Act Annual Security Report
  • USC is a smoke-free environment
  • Digital Accessibility

If you are a current USC employee, please apply to this  USC job posting in Workday by copying and pasting this link into your browser:

https://wd5.myworkday.com/usc/d/inst/1$9925/9925$137542.htmld

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About University of Southern California

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of Southern California (USC) is not a conventional company, but a private research university established in the heart of Los Angeles, CA, US. Founded in 1880, it's one of the oldest private research universities in California. USC operates in the education industry providing primary services of higher education, research, and community development. This prestigious institution offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines, including the humanities, social sciences, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). The University is guided by its commitment to foster creativity, innovation, leadership, and discovery through academic excellence.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Los Angeles , CA, US

Year founded

1880

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