Administrative Assistant, Social Science Research Institute

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, we celebrate individuality and the unique perspectives that each member of our community brings. As the Administrative Assistant, you’ll be a vital part of a collaborative, interdisciplinary team that supports students from diverse backgrounds as they pursue careers in data science and social science research.

Be Bold.

The Social Science Research Institute (SSRI) is Duke’s hub for pioneering interdisciplinary research in the social and behavioral sciences. As an Administrative Assistant, you’ll play a key role in ensuring the smooth operation of SSRI’s programs and initiatives. This highly visible position requires excellent communication skills and a regular presence on campus.

What You’ll Do:

• Collaborate Across Duke:
  Work with administrative units such as HR, Finance, and Procurement. Interpret policies, manage vendor relationships, and submit institutional forms.
• Provide Administrative Support:
  Coordinate meetings, manage correspondence, supervise student reception workers, and assist faculty, staff, and visitors. Handle mail and courier services, and run errands as needed.
• Support Business Operations:
  Maintain front office functionality, including appliances, signage, and space requests. Assist with Concur, order supplies, and manage key distribution.
• Contribute to Strategic Planning:
  Advise the SSRI director, generate reports and presentations, analyze data, and maintain organizational charts to support long-term planning.

What You Bring:

• Bachelor’s degree and at least two years of administrative experience in an academic or research setting (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in MS Word, PowerPoint, and Adobe Acrobat.
• Familiarity with Duke systems is preferred.

Anticipated Pay Range:

Duke University provides an annual base salary range for this position as USD $44,766.00 to USD $71,706.00. Duke 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/

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 provision for requests for reasonable accommodation will be provided by each hiring department.

Choose Duke.

At Duke, your career is more than a job — it’s a journey of growth, learning, and purpose. As part of the SSRI team, you’ll have access to professional development opportunities, mentorship, and a culture that values curiosity and innovation. Whether you're looking to deepen your expertise or explore new paths, Duke provides the resources and support to help you thrive. Join a community where your contributions are recognized, your goals are supported, and your potential is limitless.

Ready to Make a Difference?

Apply now and help us build a stronger, smarter, and more connected future.

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, sex (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 onthe 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 provision for requests for reasonable accommodation will be provided by each hiring department.