Assistant Director of Residential Life for First-Year Experience

Valparaiso University • Valparaiso, IN

18h

About The Position

The Assistant Director of Residential Life for First-Year Experience provides strategic leadership and supervision for the residential communities designated for first-year students. Reporting to the Assistant Dean of Students for Residential Life, this live-in position is responsible for creating a supportive, high-engagement environment that facilitates the transition from high school to college. The Assistant Director oversees the staffing, conduct, student support, and community development of the first-year halls, working collaboratively with campus partners to improve student retention and success.

Requirements

• A master's degree in Student Affairs, Higher Education, Counseling, or a related field is required.
• 2-4 years of professional experience in residence life, with a specific focus on first-year student populations or transition programs.
• Strong supervisory skills, expertise in crisis intervention and conflict mediation, and a deep understanding of first-year student development theory.
• Ability to think critically.
• Strong administrative skills, including effective time and task management and clear communication.
• Experience with staff recruitment and training is essential.
• All offers of employment with Valparaiso University are contingent upon the clear results of a thorough background check.
• Background checks may include criminal history, motor vehicle reports, prior employment verification, and personal/professional references. If applicable to the position, they will also include credit history.
• Background checks will be conducted on all final candidates for employment.
• To be considered for this position, you must upload: Cover letter Resume List of 3 professional references Answer all application questions
• Please address the cover letter to: Ryan Blevins, Dean of Students Valparaiso University Valparaiso, Indiana

Responsibilities

• Directly supervises the student RA staff assigned to the first-year areas.
• Implements the "First 6 Weeks" curriculum designed by the AD-Residential Education, focusing on social integration and basic life skills.
• Coordinates large-scale programming and community-building initiatives that foster a sense of belonging.
• Serving as a hearing officer, the Assistant Director adjudicates student conduct cases related to policy violations.
• Serves in the senior administrative on-call rotation, responding to emergencies and providing support to on-site staff during crises.
• Serving as the primary coordinator of student staff recruitment and selection, the Assistant Director works with departmental colleagues and divisional partners to coordinate student staff/leadership selection and placement.
• Serves as a key point of contact for parents and families of first-year students.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director