Directory Services Support Specialist

ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT 

The University of Southern California (USC) is advancing its cybersecurity posture with a renewed focus on resilience, cyber risk management, and threat-informed defense. As a world-class research institution, USC is building a culture of security that supports its academic and research mission in a rapidly evolving threat landscape. 

This role sits within a newly restructured cybersecurity organization that’s leading this transformation. You’ll join a team focused on scalable, proactive defense strategies, incident preparedness, and operational excellence—working alongside experts who are deeply committed to service, innovation, and impact. 

If you’re driven by purpose, thrive in complexity, and want to help shape the future of cybersecurity at a leading university, we invite you to bring your leadership to the table. 

POSITION SUMMARY 

As the Directory Services Support Specialist, you will be an integral member of the cybersecurity department while also collaborating with stakeholders across the university ecosystem, and reporting to the Manager, IGA and Directory Services. This is a full-time non-exempt position, eligible for all of USC’s fantastic Benefits + Perks. This opportunity is remote. 

The Directory Services Support Specialist is responsible for managing, maintaining and optimizing the university’s directory infrastructure (e.g., Directory Services, Kerberos, and related authentication services). Ensures the stability, security and scalability of directory services, enabling seamless integration with identity management systems and supporting the university's operational and cybersecurity objectives. 

The Directory Services Support Specialist will: 

• Monitors, maintains, and troubleshoots Directory Services and Kerberos environments to ensure high availability and performance. 

• Manages directory synchronization and federation between on-premise and cloud environments. Configures and enforces secure authentication protocols for directory services. 

• Implements and maintains Group Policy Objects (GPOs) to support security and operational requirements. Provides technical support for directory-related incidents; resolves issues in a timely and efficient manner. 

• Collaborates with IT and cybersecurity teams to integrate directory services with other IAM components (e.g., SSO and MFA). 

• Performs regular audits of directory services to ensure compliance with regulatory standards and best practices. 

• Supports and manages the onboarding of new applications and systems requiring directory integration. 

• Develops and maintains documentation for directory services processes, configurations, and troubleshooting guides. Maintains professional currency, staying updated on advancements in directory technologies. Recommends improvements to enhance security and efficiency. 

• Encourages a workplace culture where all employees are valued, value others and have the opportunity to contribute through their ideas, words and actions, in accordance with the USC Code of Ethics.