"Assistant Director for Residential Programs and Services"

Assistant Director for Residential Programs and Services

Posting Number: S14503P

Department: Housing-Resident Progs & Srvcs

Classification Title: Residence Life Manager

FLSA: Exempt

FTE: 1.00

Minimum Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in a related field or equivalent plus 10 years of professional experience to include 3 years of supervisory experience

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in higher education, student personnel or related field
• Minimum 10 years of experience living in a communal setting or working at an institution of high education (relevant experiences include but are not limited to being a camp counselor, resident assistant, graduate assistant, or hall director)
• At least 3 years of supervisory experience

Position Summary: The assistant director for Residential Programs and Services (RPS) manages the comprehensive operations for two to four residential areas housing more than 2,000 students. The assistant director is responsible for cultivating inclusive, engaging, and well-maintained residential communities that foster student learning and success. This position advances the department’s curricular approach to residential education and oversees major unit initiatives.
As a member of the RPS leadership team, the assistant director contributes to strategic planning, policy development, and assessment efforts, while collaborating with departmental, divisional, and university partners to enhance the residential experience. The position directly supervises two to five full-time staff and reports to an associate director for RPS.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and/or Competencies:

• Capacity to manage multiple priorities, make informed decisions, and implement creative solutions in complex and autonomous environments.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills to guide staff and improve operational effectiveness.
• Demonstrated ability to build collaborative partnerships with faculty, staff, and campus stakeholders to advance departmental and university priorities.
• Experience serving in an on-call capacity, assisting with crisis management, and supporting students in distress
• Proficiency with technology and data systems, including Microsoft Office programs and Housing Management Systems (e.g., StarRez and Advocate) to support daily operations and decision-making.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills with the ability to engage faculty, staff, students, parents, and administrators.
• Proficient in budget management.
• Skilled at planning events that address the academic, developmental, and social needs of residential students.

Physical Demands:

• Frequently walk-through residential facilities, which includes climbing stairs
• Respond to crisis situations in various buildings that may require being present for long periods of time.
• Continual usage of computers.
• Lift and carry up to 40 lbs.
• Verbally communicate effectively both in person and via telephone with a variety of individuals.

Duties/Responsibilities

Supervision (35%): Train, supervise and evaluate two (2) to five (5) full-time Residence Hall Directors, with potential indirect supervision of up to eight (8) graduate assistants. Work with staff to coordinate the selection, training and evaluation of graduate and undergraduate student staff, including resident assistants and residential belonging assistants. Establish and direct area goals that support unit, departmental, divisional, and university priorities. Guide staff through change, fostering accountability, and aligning team efforts with departmental and university priorities. Actively engage in the development, engagement & retention of each staff member.

Residential Education and Leadership (30%): Collaborate with the RPS leadership team to design, implement, and assess the residential curriculum and academic initiatives. Lead designated collateral assignments within the unit, such as student staff training and recruitment, conduct and care, or emergency preparedness, ensuring effective implementation and alignment with departmental priorities. Serve as an active member of the RPS leadership team, providing guidance in strategic planning, decision-making, and the advancement of unit priorities. Engage in regular meetings with campus partners to support the needs of residents. Advance departmental, divisional, and university strategic goals by serving on committees, task forces, and other professional development initiatives.

Crisis Management and Follow Up (15%): Serve in a weekly on-call rotation, offering direction, consultation, and support to live-on staff during crisis situations. Lead response efforts for emergencies and unexpected events that disrupt community operations, including making critical decisions in escalating situations. Ensure appropriate follow-up by engaging with students, parents, faculty, administrators, and other stakeholders to resolve concerns, communicate outcomes, and clarify policies.

Policy Development and Enforcement (10%): Collaborate with the RPS leadership team to develop, implement, interpret, and enforce unit and departmental policies, procedures, and regulations. Consistently support, communicate, and enforce university and departmental policies, procedures, and regulations. Provide guidance or support to live-in staff who serve as primary hearing officers. Serve as a conduct hearing officer for cases that escalate in complexity.

Financial Management & Administration (10%): Oversee an area’s combined operating and programming budget of approximately $50,000, ensuring alignment with departmental priorities. Provide fiscal oversight through monthly review of administrative, educational, staffing, and facilities accounts. Complete administrative responsibilities in a timely, accurate, and thorough manner in alignment with established expectations. Perform other duties as assigned that are consistent with the purpose of the position.

Work Schedule: M-F, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Additional weekend and evening hours may be required

Advertised Salary: $64,500

Special Instructions to Applicants: We are unable to offer a work visa sponsorship for this position. You must be authorized to work in the U.S. to apply. Priority consideration will be given to those who complete the application process by 1/20/26; however, screening will continue until the position is filled.

Location of Vacancy: Athens Area

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