Patient Services Specialist

University of Southern California; Glendale (CA); On-site; USD 31,000 - 34,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Southern California Division of Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy is seeking a Patient Services Specialist to manage front-desk duties, schedule appointments, and support billing and insurance tasks. The role emphasizes courteous patient interactions and accurate record-keeping in a fast-paced clinical setting.

The position starts fixed-term with potential to become permanent based on performance and clinic needs, offering exposure to a prestigious academic health system and

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or Associate’s Degree required.
• Experience in a medical front desk role preferred, with familiarity with authorizations/insurance processes.
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills.
• Proficiency with computer systems and data entry.

Responsibilities

• Be the warm, professional first point of contact for patients, in person and on the phone.
• Greet, check in, and assist patients with their appointments.
• Process medical authorizations and verify insurance coverage.
• Answer billing and insurance questions with clarity and empathy.
• Schedule and manage patient appointments to keep the clinic running smoothly.
• Maintain accurate patient records with confidentiality.
• Support clinical staff with administrative tasks to ensure seamless operations.

Skills

Communication skills

Customer service

Organization

Data entry

Computer proficiency

Education

High School Diploma

Associate’s Degree

Job description

Patient Services Specialist - USC Division of Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy

Fixed-term with potential to become permanent

About USC Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy

At the USC Division of Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy, we are leaders shaping the future of health care. Our mission is simple yet powerful: to enhance human health and quality of life. We do this by preparing the next generation of physical therapists, conducting groundbreaking research, and delivering world-class patient care.

About the Role

We're looking for a Patient Services Specialist (PSS) who is passionate about helping others and thrives in a fast-paced clinic environment. This position plays a key role in creating a welcoming, efficient, and supportive experience for our patients-from their very first call to their final appointment.

Initially offered on a fixed-term basis, this role has the potential to become permanent based on performance and clinic needs.

What You'll Do

• Be the warm, professional first point of contact for patients-both in person and on the phone
• Greet, check in, and assist patients with their appointments
• Process medical authorizations and verify insurance coverage
• Answer billing and insurance questions with clarity and empathy
• Schedule and manage patient appointments to keep our clinic running smoothly
• Maintain accurate patient records with a high degree of confidentiality
• Support clinical staff with administrative tasks to ensure seamless operations

What We're Looking For

• Required: High School Diploma or Associate's Degree
• Preferred: Experience in a medical front desk role and familiarity with authorizations/insurance processes
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities
• Excellent communication and customer service skills
• Proficiency in computer systems and data entry
• Ability to remain professional, compassionate, and detail-oriented under pressure

Why Join Us?

• Make a real difference in patients' lives every day
• Work with a passionate, collaborative, and supportive team
• Be part of a prestigious institution known for innovation and excellence in health care
• Build your skills and grow your career in a respected clinical environment

Minimum Requirements

• Minimum Education: High school or equivalent
• Minimum Experience: 2 years
• Minimum Field of Expertise: Experience working in a healthcare environment. Working knowledge of HIPAA compliance and insurance terminology. Demonstrated excellent interpersonal customer service and telephone skills. Demonstrated ability to multi-task. Demonstrated experience in a high volume, fast paced environment. Demonstrated team-oriented and collaborative work style.

The hourly rate range for this position is $22.77 - $24.77. 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 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 the Background Screening Policy Appendix D for specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying.