Director of Residential Life and Housing

Director of Residential Life and Housing

PHILANDER SMITH COLLEGE - 3.7

Little Rock, AR Job Details Full-time $55,000 - $70,000 a year 1 day ago Benefits Paid holidays Health insurance Dental insurance Paid time off Vision insurance Retirement plan Qualifications Master's degree

Full Job Description Job Summary:

The Director of Residential Life and Housing is a full-time, 12-month live-in professional position reporting to the Vice President for Enrollment Management & Student Experience. The Director provides leadership and oversight of a comprehensive residential life program that promotes student engagement, academic success, and personal development. This position is responsible for the daily management and strategic direction of all residence life operations, including staff supervision, housing assignments, facilities coordination, student conduct, and community programming for approximately 600 residential students.

Key Responsibilities:

Supervise, train, and evaluate Resident Assistants and student desk assistants. Develop and implement initiatives for a co-educational residential community that foster student learning, inclusivity, and wellbeing. Oversee housing operations, including room assignments, room changes, inspections, billing, and all move-in/move-out processes. Advise and support student leadership groups, including the Residence Hall Association and the Panther Programming Council (Student Activities). Conduct informal or minor student conduct hearings and ensure compliance with institutional policies and procedures. Serve on institutional committees as appointed to represent the Division of Enrollment Management & Student Experience. Collaborate closely with the Facilities Supervisor to address maintenance, safety, and security concerns within residential facilities. Respond promptly to residence hall and after-hours emergencies, serving in an on-call rotation as needed. Coordinate and assist with residence life programs and student engagement events, including evening, weekend, and holiday coverage. Partner with the Vice President, Area Coordinator, and Facilities Supervisor to ensure operational effectiveness and student satisfaction. Perform other duties as assigned in support of the University's mission and strategic goals.

Qualifications:

Education:

Master's degree in College Student Personnel, Higher Education Administration, Counseling, or a related field is required. Minimum of three years of post-master's professional experience in student life, residence life, or student development required. Demonstrated experience in living-learning communities or special interest housing initiatives that promote academic engagement.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Strong knowledge of student development theory and best practices in residential life administration. Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and leadership skills. Effective oral and written communication skills; ability to read, analyze, and interpret complex documents. Experience developing and managing budgets, policies, and staff training programs. Ability to interact effectively with diverse populations, including students, faculty, staff, and community stakeholders. Demonstrated commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive residential environment. Ability to work independently while also collaborating effectively as part of a team.

Reporting Responsibilities:

Reports To:

Vice President, Enrollment Management & Student Experience Supervises:

Residential Life & Housing Staff Collaborates with: Collaborates with other relevant institutional departments (Admissions, Financial Aid, Safety, and Business Services);

Physical Requirements:

Work Environment:

Primarily indoors within residential and office settings, with occasional outdoor activity during campus events. Exposure to variable temperatures or moderate noise levels may occur.

Lifting Requirements:

Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds occasionally (e.g., materials for events, equipment, or supplies).

Mobility:

Must be able to walk, climb stairs, and move between residence halls and campus facilities frequently.

Manual Dexterity:

Regular use of hands for typing, filing, and operating office or residence life equipment.

Vision Requirements:

Close and distance vision required; ability to adjust focus when reading or reviewing materials and computer screens.

Travel:

Occasional travel may be required for professional development or university-related events (approximately 5—10% of the time).

Note:

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this role.

Compensation/SaIary Range:

Compensation for this position includes a comprehensive salary and benefits package. The total compensation offering reflects the live-in nature of the role and its leadership responsibilities.

Salary Range:

$55,000 — $70,000 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Housing and Amenities:

A one-bedroom furnished apartment located on campus, inclusive of all utilities, cable TV, high-speed internet access, phone service, a laundry stipend, and a meal plan.

Benefits:

Full participation in the University's comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision, and retirement plans, as well as paid time off and holidays.

Professional Development:

Opportunities for continued education, training, and participation in professional associations and conferences related to student affairs and residential life.