Staff Assistant
About The Position
At Duke, we celebrate individuality and the unique perspectives that each member of our community brings. As a Staff Assistant (Economics Department), you will play a critical role in supporting faculty, staff, and students while helping maintain a welcoming, efficient, and inclusive departmental environment. You’ll be a key connector—ensuring smooth daily operations, supporting research and academic activities, and helping the department thrive through organization, collaboration, and proactive service. In this role, you’ll take ownership of a wide range of administrative, financial, and operational responsibilities that directly impact the success of the department.
Requirements
- Associate degree or two years of post-secondary education in business, administrative support, or a related field OR an equivalent combination of relevant education and experience
Nice To Haves
- Experience with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel), Concur, Buy@Duke, and 25Live
- Familiarity with office equipment (copiers, scanners, etc.)
- Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize independently
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Experience supporting events or coordinating logistics
- Sound judgment, attention to detail, and ability to work independently
Responsibilities
- Serve as the first point of contact for visitors and callers, delivering exceptional customer service
- Maintain front office operations and ensure consistent coverage during business hours
- Manage departmental mail distribution, shipping (FedEx), and supply logistics
- Coordinate conference room scheduling and classroom availability via 25Live
- Support faculty research through timely document preparation (scanning/copying)
- Provide training and guidance on office equipment and departmental resources
- Act as a Concur delegate, preparing and submitting expense reports and reimbursements in compliance with Duke policies
- Ensure accuracy in financial documentation, including business purpose, account allocation, and expense eligibility
- Provide backup support for accounts payable processes during high-volume periods
- Independently manage purchasing and inventory of office and kitchen supplies via Buy@Duke
- Monitor spending trends and prepare reports as needed
- Maintain organized, accessible, and well-stocked workspaces
- Train student workers to support supply and office management
- Serve as liaison with Facilities and Housekeeping for maintenance requests
- Proactively identify service needs and track resolution of work orders
- Communicate building updates and schedule changes to department members
- Support faculty-led workshops, including visitor coordination and logistics
- Manage visitor office assignments, key distribution, and parking passes
- Coordinate weekly departmental communications on seminars and events
- Assist with planning and execution of meetings, events, and department initiatives
- Support community-building efforts (e.g., outreach during significant life events)
Benefits
- comprehensive and competitive medical and dental care programs
- generous retirement benefits
- a wide array of family-friendly and cultural programs
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
Associate degree
