Staff Assistant - Romance Studies

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 Staff Assistant to the Chair, you’ll join an international and diverse department committed to excellence in Romance Studies. Your role will be essential in fostering collaboration and supporting faculty, staff, and students in a vibrant academic environment.

Be Bold.

Bring your energy, organizational skills, and attention to detail to a role that impacts the success of our department every day. You’ll manage critical processes, coordinate events, and serve as a trusted liaison across the university and beyond.

What You’ll Do:

Executive Support for the Chair

• • Serve as the primary liaison between the Chair and faculty, students, administrators, and external partners.
  • Compose, edit, and distribute correspondence and official documents, ensuring compliance with Duke policies.
  • Maintain and organize detailed files and records for departmental operations.
  • Oversee the Chair’s calendar, schedule meetings, and proactively resolve scheduling conflicts.
  • Manage the Appointment, Promotions, and Tenure process with precision and confidentiality.

Departmental Administration

• • Coordinate departmental meetings, prepare agendas and materials, and record accurate minutes.
  • Supervise work-study student workers and delegate tasks effectively.
  • Manage departmental email lists, social media presence, and publicity efforts.
  • Organize faculty retreats and departmental events, including logistics, catering, and communications.
  • Maintain office supplies and act as the department’s representative with vendors.

Faculty Search & Recruitment

• • Support faculty search committees by scheduling meetings, preparing candidate dossiers, and maintaining confidential records.
  • Coordinate candidate campus visits, including detailed itineraries, meetings, and event planning.
  • Assist with interview logistics at the Modern Language Association conference and other recruitment activities.
  • Ensure compliance with EEO reporting and university hiring policies.

Event & Communication Management

• • Plan and execute departmental events, lectures, and receptions.
  • Create promotional materials such as flyers and posters for events.
  • Serve as a resource for faculty, staff, and students regarding departmental equipment and processes.

Other Duties

• • Assist the Chair with research and teaching activities, including arranging travel and securing permissions.
  • Provide support for special projects and initiatives as needed.

Anticipated Pay Range:

Duke University provides an annual base salary range for this position as USD $18.92 to USD $28.09. 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/

Choose Duke.

Duke University is consistently ranked among the top institutions in the world, offering a dynamic and inclusive environment where your contributions matter. In this role, you’ll be part of a team that values diversity, innovation, and academic excellence—helping shape the future of Romance Studies and supporting faculty and students in meaningful ways.

Ready to Make a Difference?

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