Program Coordinator

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, collaboration, and the unique perspectives each member of our community brings. As a Program Coordinator for the Thompson Writing Program (TWP), you’ll be a vital contributor to a dynamic academic environment that supports teaching, research, and creative work across the university.

In this role, you’ll work closely with faculty, staff, students, and visiting scholars—bringing strong organizational skills, creativity, and attention to detail to a team that values independence, initiative, and shared success. This position reports directly to the Business Manager.

Be Bold.

This role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact by supporting the operational, financial, and public-facing activities of the Thompson Writing Program.

What You’ll Do:

Financial & Administrative Support

• Manage complex and confidential financial and administrative activities in support of the Business Manager, TWP Director, and program leadership.
• Process and reconcile financial transactions including journal vouchers, invoices, travel awards, reimbursements, bursar deposits, and procurement requests.
• Monitor budgets, analyze expenditures, identify trends, and prepare financial reports with recommendations to support informed decision-making.
• Serve as the Concur initiator and procurement card administrator for TWP, ensuring compliance, accuracy, and proper documentation.
• Act as a primary resource for faculty regarding research, professional development, and grant fund balances; maintain detailed records for all related accounts.
• Collaborate with the Business Manager to create and manage financial and activity reports for TWP programs and initiatives.

Events & Program Management

• Coordinate scheduling, logistics, budgeting, and promotion for all Thompson Writing Program events.
• Serve as the primary liaison for event attendees, faculty, staff, students, and external guests.
• Reserve space, arrange catering, and oversee event setup and breakdown, ensuring appropriate resources and equipment are available.
• Develop creative concepts for outreach initiatives and program themes that enhance engagement and visibility.
• Collect, analyze, and evaluate program and event data; summarize findings and recommend improvements to strengthen program effectiveness.
• Maintain accurate documentation and records to support assessment, reporting, and compliance.

Communications & Outreach

• Collaborate with program leadership to creatively manage TWP’s online, in-person, and social media presence in support of program goals.
• Maintain and update TWP websites, digital signage, calendars, blogs, and online resources.
• Serve as a Scholars@Duke power user and primary point of contact for website and system updates.
• Identify media stakeholders and marketing opportunities to promote TWP initiatives and events.
• Create and manage promotional materials, faculty profiles, news stories, surveys, and workshop resources.
• Plan, create, and maintain the TWP calendar and Faculty/Staff Administrative Portal.

Choose Duke.

Duke University offers a collaborative academic culture, opportunities for professional growth, and a commitment to excellence in teaching, research, and service. Joining the Thompson Writing Program means contributing to a mission-driven community while building a rewarding career in higher education administration.

Required Qualifications

• Work requires analytical, communication and organizational skills generally acquired through completion of a bachelor’s degree
• One year of experience in program administration or related academic, instructional, or support roles.

Skills

• Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Proven ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in a team-based environment.
• High level of attention to detail and accuracy, particularly in financial and administrative work.
• Ability to analyze data, prepare reports, and communicate findings clearly to stakeholders.
• Demonstrated judgment, discretion, and professionalism when handling confidential information.
• Proficiency with financial systems, reporting tools, and administrative software (e.g., SAP, Concur, web content management systems).
• Experience with event planning, logistics coordination, and stakeholder engagement.
• Familiarity with communications, marketing, and social media platforms preferred.

Ready to Make a Difference?

Apply now and help advance the mission of the Thompson Writing Program while building a meaningful career at Duke University.