Commissary Technician, Lemur Center

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.

At Duke, we celebrate individuality and the unique perspectives that each member of our community brings. As the Commissary Technician at the Duke Lemur Center, you will play an essential role in supporting one of the world's leading centers for the conservation, care, and study of endangered primates.

In this role, you'll work alongside a dedicated husbandry team to ensure the accurate preparation, organization, and delivery of specialized diets that support the health and well-being of the Duke Lemur Center's remarkable animal population. Your attention to detail, passion for teamwork, and commitment to excellence will directly contribute to our mission of conservation, education, and scientific discovery.

Be Bold.

Join a collaborative team where your work has a meaningful impact every day. This position combines food preparation, inventory management, operational excellence, and teamwork in a unique environment dedicated to protecting endangered species.

What You'll Do

Prepare Specialized Diets

• Prepare and portion fresh fruits, vegetables, and other dietary items according to established nutrition plans.
• Assist in assembling prescribed diets for the Duke Lemur Center's primate colony.
• Accurately label, date, and manage prepared food items to ensure compliance with food safety standards.

Support Commissary Operations

• Receive, organize, and store food deliveries and supplies.
• Monitor and maintain inventories of produce, insects, cleaning supplies, and commissary materials.
• Assist with tracking inventory levels and communicating supply needs.

Maintain Excellence in Food Preparation Areas

• Ensure cleanliness and sanitation of food preparation, storage, and workspaces.
• Follow established daily, weekly, and rotational cleaning procedures.
• Maintain walk-in refrigerators, carts, bins, storage containers, and food preparation equipment.

Manage Insect Husbandry

• Maintain colonies of crickets, mealworms, and other feeder insects.
• Monitor inventory and ensure availability to support dietary requirements.

Collaborate Across Teams

• Work effectively with volunteers assisting in kitchen operations and diet preparation.
• Partner with husbandry and curatorial staff to support daily operational needs.
• Contribute to a positive, inclusive, and team-oriented environment.

Additional Responsibilities

• Collect browse and approved dietary materials on and off site as needed.
• Operate food preparation equipment including knives, choppers, can openers, induction burners, and other specialized tools.
• Perform additional duties as assigned to support the Duke Lemur Center's mission.

What You Bring

Required Education

• Bachelor's degree.

Preferred Experience

• Food preparation or commissary operations experience.
• Experience managing cricket and worms.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong time management and organizational skills.
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to meet established deadlines.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to receive and apply feedback constructively.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a diverse team environment.
• Professionalism, flexibility, and a positive attitude.
• Commitment to maintaining high standards of quality, safety, and cleanliness.
• Passion for supporting a mission-driven organization.

Work Schedule

• Full-time, 40 hours per week
• Monday through Friday
• 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
• 30-minute scheduled lunch at 12:30 p.m.

A Note About This Role

This position primarily supports commissary and food preparation operations and is not a direct animal care role. Occasional work in proximity to lemurs or support activities may be required based on operational needs.

Choose Duke.

At Duke University and the Duke Lemur Center, you'll find more than a job. You'll find a community dedicated to innovation, discovery, collaboration, and conservation. Here, your contributions help advance world-class research and support the care of one of the most unique primate populations in the world.

Whether you're preparing specialized diets, maintaining critical supplies, or supporting daily operations, your work helps make our mission possible.

Ready to Make a Difference?

Apply today and help support the health, care, and conservation of endangered primates through your work at the Duke Lemur Center.