Director of Housing Operations

Job Summary

The Director of Housing Operations provides leadership and oversight for all administrative aspects of the university’s housing operations that consists of one residence hall and two apartment complexes, approximately 1300 beds. This role manages staff, budgets, policies, and communications to ensure an efficient, student-centered, and high-quality residential experience. The Director serves as the central point of coordination for housing assignments, occupancy management, and operational processes, while collaborating with campus partners to support student success and engagement.

Responsibilities

1. Leadership, Supervision, and Staff Development

• Supervise housing staff, including the Business Manager and Assignments Coordinator, providing direction, performance management, and professional development.
• Oversee the hiring, training, supervision, and evaluation of University Housing paraprofessional staff (Graduate Residence Directors, Resident Assistants, peer educators, student desk/mail assistants, and student interns).
• Foster a positive and inclusive work environment that supports staff growth and success.

2. Housing Operations and Occupancy Management

• Direct housing processes including assignments, move-in, move-out, and room readiness/turn in collaboration with the Housing Facilities team.
• Lead recruitment efforts to maximize housing occupancy and oversee the eviction process when necessary.
• Monitor occupancy trends, prepare occupancy and other required reports, and recommend strategies for improving housing operations.
• Write, update, and enforce housing policies in alignment with institutional priorities.

3. Student and Parent Relations

• Manage student and parent communications related to housing assignments, policies, and concerns.
• Manage student relations, resolving issues and concerns in a timely and professional manner.
• Collaborate with the Director of Residence Life to ensure alignment between operations and living-learning communities.

Financial Management and Planning

• Oversee budgeting and financial planning for housing administrative operations.
• Ensure resources are used efficiently and in support of departmental and institutional goals.

5. Compliance, Campus Engagement, and Service

• Fulfill Campus Security Authority (CSA) responsibilities under the Clery Act, including incident reporting and compliance training.
• Represent the department on university committees and serve as liaison to other departments and organizations on campus and in the community.
• Prepare university, Board of Regents, and other ad hoc reports

6. Other Duties

• Serve as a backup point of contact for key maintenance coordination and urgent housing needs.
• Perform other duties as assigned to support Housing Operations and the Division of Student Affairs.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Higher Education Administration, Business Administration, Student Affairs, or related field required
• Minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in housing operations, student housing, or related field.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).
• Knowledge of student housing software systems and occupancy management tools preferred
• Ability to learn and navigate enterprise systems and specialized software.

Preferred Qualifications

• Supervisory experience
• Experience with university systems (e.g., PeopleSoft, Banner).
• Master’s degree in student personnel, Higher Education Administration, or related fields

Knowledge, Skills, & Abilities

• Strong financial management, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to effectively engage students, parents, and campus partners.
• Comprehensive knowledge of housing operations, occupancy management, and student housing best practices.
• Strong understanding of budgeting, financial management, and data-driven decision-making.
• Familiarity with higher education policies, student development theory, and housing-related legal requirements.
• Knowledge of conflict resolution, crisis management, and student conduct processes.
• Strong leadership and supervisory skills, with the ability to develop and mentor professional and paraprofessional staff.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Analytical and problem-solving skills to address complex housing issues and improve operational efficiency.
• Customer service and relationship-building skills that promote a positive residential experience.
• Ability to make sound decisions under pressure, especially during emergencies or sensitive situations.
• Ability to work collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders to support student success.
• Ability to adapt to evolving student needs, housing trends, and institutional goals.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise discretion in sensitive matters.