Project Planner I

Be You.

Duke University is seeking a Project Planner I to join the Academic Project Management Core (APMC)—a collaborative effort between the Office of the Provost and the Office for Research & Innovation. In this role, you’ll provide strategic and operational project management support for two to five academic initiatives at a time, helping advance high‑priority work across schools, institutes, and central offices.

You’ll partner with faculty, administrators, and project teams to move short‑term academic projects from concept to completion. These initiatives may include launching new academic programs, supporting strategic planning or curricular reviews, improving processes, implementing data systems, or coordinating academic events. As part of the APMC community, you’ll also gain access to professional development, knowledge sharing, and a network of fellow project planners.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree.
• Two years of experience in project management with increasing scope and independence, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Training or coursework in project management.
• Knowledge of higher education administration.
• Familiarity with Duke’s academic structure and resources.

Other Requirements

• Ability to independently manage multiple concurrent projects.
• Strong communication, collaboration, problem‑solving, and time‑management skills.
• Demonstrated ability to deliver quality outcomes and meet project deadlines.

Be Bold.

Position Description (Essential Duties)

• Apply standard project management processes, tools, and methodologies to support small‑ to medium‑complexity academic projects.
• Plan, lead, and facilitate project team meetings.
• Develop and implement project communication plans.
• Create detailed task lists, timelines, and standard operating procedures.
• Drive project initiation and ongoing project management activities.
• Train, manage, and mentor project team members as appropriate.
• Organize academic‑focused events and symposia.
• Produce project documentation and presentations.
• Partner with functional managers to resolve schedule and resource issues and escalate challenges when needed.

Choose Duke.

The Academic Project Management Core plays a key role in advancing Duke’s academic mission by providing flexible, high‑impact project support across the university. As a Project Planner I, you’ll contribute to initiatives that shape teaching, learning, and academic innovation while working alongside engaged colleagues in a collaborative environment.

Duke offers meaningful professional development opportunities and a competitive benefits package designed to support your growth and well‑being:
👉 https://hr.duke.edu/benefits/