Help create a more sustainable future

 

Wrigley Institute staff gather on the beach at Two Harbors, Santa Catalina Island

We like to think of ourselves as the luckiest people on the planet. When we come to work, we’re helping to solve some of the most important issues of our time. And we’re part of the larger community of USC employees, supporting the world-changing work of one of the nation’s most prestigious and influential research universities.

Want to be part of what we do? Check out our current job postings below!

Note: the Wrigley Institute offers jobs based both in mainland Los Angeles and on Santa Catalina Island. Unless otherwise noted, applicants for full-time, Catalina Island-based jobs should be willing to live on the island near the Wrigley Marine Science Center. See each job listing for its location and application instructions.

  • Full-time, fixed-term (2 years)

    Preferred Start Date: Spring 2025

    Location: USC’s University Park Campus, Los Angeles, with occasional travel to the Wrigley Marine Science Center on Catalina Island

    We are currently seeking a detail-oriented, creative, and organized individual to serve as Research Project Administrator for our Carbon Management and Future of Plastics Initiatives, and for projects unfolding across its three Research Launchpads (Earth and Environmental Systems, Applied Environmental Solutions, and Social Transformation).

    Reporting to the Executive Director of the Wrigley Institute, the Project Administrator will help develop, coordinate, and execute innovative and high-impact research in support of the institute’s mission.

    Learn more and apply >> 

  • Fixed-term (2 years) 

    Preferred Start Date: Spring 2025

    Location: USC’s University Park Campus, Los Angeles

    We are currently seeking a two-year postdoctoral research associate who will work closely with Wrigley Institute Director Joe Árvai as part of the institute’s Climate and Carbon Initiative.

    The research conducted under the auspices of the Climate and Carbon Initiative focuses on very long-duration, permanent, and/or engineered carbon removal. The selected postdoctoral research associate will conduct empirical research on technological acceptance, risk and benefit perceptions, consumer behavior, individual and group decision-making, and other topics as part of an interdisciplinary team of scholars.

    Individuals with a Ph.D. and research interests in risk perception, judgment and decision-making, social psychology, or related fields are encouraged to apply.

    Learn more and apply on Joe’s website>> 

  • Part-time (as-needed)

    Preferred Start Date: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and positions are filled as needed

    Location: Primarily Wrigley Marine Science Center, Santa Catalina Island; some work in Los Angeles and along the Southern California coast

    We are currently seeking AAUS-certified scuba divers to facilitate underwater research projects and assist with our Scientific Diving programs. The candidates may work closely with the Diving Safety Officer (DSO) to maintain dive program equipment and ensure that proper safety methods and procedures are followed. Work will take place primarily on Catalina Island at the Wrigley Marine Science Center, but staff may also assist with dives at USC’s Los Angeles campus and around the Southern California area. As this is a part-time position, successful candidates are not required to live on Catalina Island.

    Learn more and apply >>

  • Part-time (as-needed)

    Preferred Start Date: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and positions are filled as needed

    We are seeking backup Boat Captains to provide safe marine transportation services to faculty, staff, administrators, students, visitors, and guests traveling to and from the Wrigley Marine Science Center on Catalina Island aboard the cross-channel vessel, Miss Christi. The vessel captain may also assist the Marine Operations Manager with maintaining the vessel fleet, ensuring all USCG-required safety equipment and communication systems are present and in proper working order, and general waterfront operations. The position has flexible work schedules and hours, which may include overtime hours, weekend shifts, and/or possible overnight stays on Catalina Island*.

    * Preference will be given to those available to work weekends, particularly those who are open to staying the night on Catalina Island when required.

    Learn more and apply >>

  • Part-time (as-needed)

    Preferred Start Date: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and positions are filled as needed

    We are seeking backup Boat Deckhands to provide safe marine transportation services to faculty, staff, administrators, students, visitors, and guests traveling to and from the Wrigley Marine Science Center on Catalina Island aboard the cross-channel vessel, Miss Christi. Boat crew may also assist the Marine Operations Manager with maintaining the vessel fleet, ensuring all USCG-required safety equipment and communication systems are present and in proper working order, and general waterfront operations. The position has flexible work schedules and hours which may include overtime hours, weekend shifts, and/or possible overnight stays on Catalina Island*.

    * Preference will be given to those available to work weekends, particularly those who are open to staying the night on Catalina Island when required. 

    Learn more and apply >>