HR Specialist

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. The department is seeking a detail-oriented HR Specialist to support core human resources operations with a strong emphasis on payroll, HR transaction processing, recruitment activities, and day-to-day HR operational support. In this role, you will play a critical part in ensuring accurate, timely, and compliant HR transactions while serving as a key point of contact for administrators and stakeholders across the unit. You will work closely with Duke Corporate Payroll, central HR offices, recruiters, and internal administrators to review and process payroll data, HR iForms, and recruitment-related workflows. Your work will directly support employee pay accuracy, hiring timelines, onboarding compliance, and overall HR process efficiency. Minimum Requirements

Knowledge of basic communication, research, and mathematical principles normally acquired through a high school education. Ability to review, maintain, research, and report on human resource and payroll information. Five years of related human resources and/or payroll experience required. OR an equivalent combination of relevant education and/or experience.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience processing HR transactions such as hires, transfers, terminations, salary changes, or supplemental pay. Experience working with HR systems and electronic transaction workflows. Experience supporting payroll processing and resolving payroll discrepancies. Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities while meeting deadlines.

Other Requirements

Ability to work collaboratively with central HR and payroll offices. Ability to interpret HR policies and procedures and apply them accurately to transactions. Proficiency with tracking tools, spreadsheets, and reporting documentation.

Be Bold.

• Payroll Administration and Support (35%)Review payroll data to identify discrepancies, overpayments, or distribution issues and coordinate with Duke Corporate Payroll to resolve pay-related concerns and respond to payroll inquiries.
• Maintain tracking tools and spreadsheets to support payroll operations and reporting needs.