Staff Assistant

Duke Careers • Durham, NC

8d • Onsite

About The Position

The Staff Assistant provides administrative, communications, and programming support for the Dean of Students Office with a primary focus on student-facing programs, events, and daily operations. This role serves as a key point of contact for students, families, staff, and campus partners, ensuring efficient office operations and a welcoming environment. The position supports multiple functional areas, manages administrative processes, and assists with major programs such as New Student Orientation and Family Weekend. The Staff Assistant works collaboratively, balances competing priorities, and adapts to the academic calendar and evolving office needs. This position is expected to generally be 100% on site.

Requirements

• Work requires a broad knowledge of clerical and accounting principles and practices normally acquired through two years of post secondary education in administrative support or a related business field.
• Work generally requires three years of related secretarial/clerical experience to acquire skills necessary to administer complex office functions related to office management, communications, and budgetary/accounting activities. OR and equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited four-year institution and prior experience working in a college or university environment. Experience working directly with students, parents, and families is strongly preferred.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Strong customer service orientation and professionalism.
• Ability to multitask, prioritize, and manage competing deadlines.
• Demonstrated effectiveness working in team-based environments.
• Sound judgment and discretion when handling confidential information and sensitive situations.
• Proficiency with office productivity tools, databases, and web platforms.
• Knowledge of university financial practices, travel policies, and privacy regulations
• OR ANY OTHER EQUIVALENT COMBINATION OF RELEVANT EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary point of contact for the Dean of Students Office, responding to phone, email, and in-person inquiries using sound judgment.
• Schedule and coordinate meetings and appointments for leadership and staff; manage calendars; organize job searches and campus visits.
• Maintain office files, records, reports, and correspondence; remain knowledgeable of office protocols and procedures.
• Compile, summarize, and review data and reports for supervisors; assist with presentations and staff meeting materials.
• Coordinate office communications including newsletters, website updates, and social media monitoring.
• Manage room reservations and event spaces; coordinate with Facilities on space needs and work orders.
• Maintain and reconcile financial records, procurement card transactions, interdepartmental transfers, and travel reports.
• Order supplies and manage office inventory.
• Provide administrative and logistical support for New Student Orientation, Family Weekend, and other major programs.
• Assist with event planning including space reservations, room setup, volunteer coordination, materials preparation, and on-site support.
• Coordinate event calendars and ensure accurate scheduling and communication of program details.
• Support outreach and engagement efforts related to programs and events.
• Perform related duties as assigned or required to meet departmental, Division and University goals and objectives, as assigned by their Supervisor, Director, or respective designees.

Benefits

• Duke provides comprehensive and competitive medical and dental care programs, generous retirement benefits, and a wide array of family- friendly and cultural programs to eligible team members.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: Associate degree