Staff Assistant / Administrative & Communications Assistant , Center for Politics

Duke University

Duke University was created in 1924 through an indenture of trust by James Buchanan Duke. Today, Duke is regarded as one of America’s leading research universities. Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke is positioned in the heart of the Research Triangle, which is ranked annually as one of the best places in the country to work and live. Duke has more than 15,000 students who study and conduct research in its 10 undergraduate, graduate and professional schools. With about 40,000 employees, Duke is the third largest private employer in North Carolina, and it now has international programs in more than 150 countries.

Be You. Be Bold. Choose Duke.

Be You.

At Duke University, we celebrate individuality, curiosity, and the power of diverse perspectives. As the Staff Assistant / Administrative & Communications Assistant with Polis: Center for Politics in the Sanford School of Public Policy, you’ll be a vital part of a mission-driven academic center dedicated to political engagement and civil discourse.

In this role, you’ll support students, faculty, visiting speakers, alumni, and donors—helping create meaningful experiences that foster thoughtful dialogue across differences while ensuring seamless day-to-day operations.

Be Bold.

This position is ideal for someone who enjoys variety, thrives in a fast-paced academic environment, and brings both precision and creativity to administrative, communications, and event support.

What You’ll Do

Programmatic Support & Event Management (Approx. 60%)

• Coordinate all aspects of Polis and Civil Discourse Project events, including panels, workshops, conferences, receptions, and dinners
• Manage event logistics from planning through execution, including space reservations, travel, itineraries, briefing materials, invitations, and on-site support
• Handle logistics for guest speakers and visitors, including parking, honoraria, catering, room reservations, and vendor coordination
• Contract and manage vendors for catering, equipment rentals, décor, and audiovisual services, including price negotiation
• Support publicity, advertising, and public relations efforts, including drafting promotional content and coordinating multimedia advertising
• Update and maintain Polis and Civil Discourse Project websites and social media channels
• Create targeted itineraries for visiting guests and assist with reports and promotional materials
• Administer post-event surveys and manage follow-up communications

Administrative & Office Management (Approx. 40%)

• Build and maintain databases and mailing lists for students, alumni, donors, and event attendees
• Serve as administrative support to the Director and Assistant Director, including calendar coordination, travel, and correspondence
• Draft and distribute letters, reports, newsletters, and other materials
• Process financial transactions including reimbursements, corporate card reconciliation, and fund tracking
• Manage office inventory, filing systems, and supplies
• Support hiring, onboarding, and training for student workers
• Manage the Polis email inbox and respond to inquiries
• Coordinate staff meetings, take notes, and support internal team activities

What You’ll Bring

Education

Work generally requires four 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 AN EQUIVALENT COMBINATION OF RELEVANT EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE

Experience

Typically three years of related administrative, event coordination, or program support experience.

Skills

Strong organizational and communication skills; proficiency with Microsoft Office and familiarity with WordPress or Canva.

Preferred

Bachelors Degree

Choose Duke.

Duke University offers a collaborative and inclusive work environment where your contributions have real impact, supported by comprehensive benefits, professional development opportunities, and a vibrant campus culture.

Ready to Make a Difference?

Apply now and put your skills to work supporting impactful programs, dynamic events, and a vibrant academic community—right here at Duke University.

Anticipated Pay Range: Duke University provides an annual base salary range for this position as USD $19.80 to USD $30.63. Duke University considers factors such as (but not limited to) scope and responsibilities of the position; candidate's work experience, education/training, and key skills; internal peer equity; as well as market and organizational considerations when extending an offer.

Your total compensation goes beyond the dollars on your paycheck. 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. Learn more at: https://hr.duke.edu/benefits/

Equal Opportunity Employer: Duke is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing employment opportunity without regard to an individual's age, color, disability, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, (including pregnancy and pregnancy related conditions), sexual orientation, or military status.

Duke aspires to create a community built on collaboration, innovation, creativity, and belonging. Our collective success depends on the robust exchange of ideas—an exchange that is best when the rich diversity of our perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences flourishes. To achieve this exchange, it is essential that all members of the community feel secure and welcome, that the contributions of all individuals are respected, and that all voices are heard. All members of our community have a responsibility to uphold these values.

Essential Physical Job Functions

Certain jobs at Duke University and Duke University Health System may include essential job functions that require specific physical and/or mental abilities. Additional information and reasonable accommodation(s) can be requested with Duke Access and Accommodations Services (email: [email protected]; phone: 919-668-1267).