Departmental Operations and Personnel Manager

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.

The Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering (CEE) is seeking a Departmental Business Manager II to lead the financial, administrative, human resources, and operational functions that keep our innovative academic community running at the highest level. In this pivotal role, you will directly shape the department’s effectiveness by overseeing budgeting, human resources, payroll, personnel management, grant administration, space/facilities planning, and operational policies.

Every day, you will be the connective force ensuring smooth operations across finance, HR, research administration, and facilities. You’ll collaborate closely with the Department Chair, faculty, and staff to support the department’s academic mission while enhancing its administrative processes and culture. If you enjoy solving complex problems, leading teams, and building efficient systems, this role offers the chance to have a meaningful, lasting impact.

• Bachelor’s degree in business, management, finance, or a related field.
• At least 3 years of relevant business or administrative experience, including work with financial management, budgeting, personnel practices, and coordination of multiple administrative functions.
• Or an equivalent combination of relevant education and/or experience.

• Experience in a university or research environment.
• Demonstrated ability to manage budgets, reconcile accounts, and oversee financial compliance.
• Experience supervising staff and leading cross-functional administrative teams.
• Knowledge of grant proposal preparation, postaward management, and sponsor compliance.
• Familiarity with HR practices including hiring, onboarding, performance management, and staff development.
• Experience with SAP/R3, iForms, Buy@Duke, and related systems.
• Strong problem‑solving skills with the ability to interpret policy and guide faculty and staff on administrative matters.

• This position is onsite, within the Civil & Environmental Engineering department. After the 90‑day review process, there is a possibility for a hybrid schedule.
• May require occasional evening or weekend work during peak cycles (budget closing, grant deadlines, etc.).

• Manage day‑to‑day financial operations and ensure compliance with university policies and procedures.
• Oversee expenditure monitoring, reconciliation, and reporting for departmental funds, including endowments, startup accounts, and master's program revenue.
• Prepare financial analyses, identify trends, and advise the Chair on budgetary matters.
• Develop annual operating budgets by analyzing historical and projected expenses and revenues.
• Lead year‑end closing activities, ensuring accuracy and timely submission.
• Supervise accounts payable, reimbursements, journal entries, corporate card processes, and purchase requisitions.

• Assist faculty with proposal budgeting and submission requirements.
• Monitor post‑award spending to ensure compliance with university and sponsor regulations.
• Prepare administrative reports for sponsoring agencies as needed.

• Partner with the Chair to design and maintain an effective administrative structure supporting faculty, staff, and students.
• Lead biweekly staff meetings and coordinate departmental communication channels.
• Support immigration and visa processes by collaborating with Duke Visa Services.
• Advise leadership on HR policies, compensation, performance management, and staff…