Summer Academies Site Director - Residential

Thrive Scholars•St. Louis, MO

10d•Onsite

About The Position

The Academies Site Director (SD) is the on-site leader responsible for ensuring a safe, engaging, and transformative experience for Scholars at our Residential Summer Academy in St. Louis. The Site Director manages day-to-day program operations, supervises staff, oversees residential life, and serves as the primary point of contact for Thrive staff, seasonal staff, and parents. As a live-in position, the Site Director will reside in student housing and share responsibility with Assistant Site Directors (ASDs) for 24-hour coverage. This role requires strong leadership, operational excellence, and a deep commitment to student success. The SD will be expected to participate in planning prior to the start of Academy.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s in Counseling, Higher Education, Social Work, or related field strongly preferred.
5+ years of full-time experience working with youth in educational or residential settings.
Experience with living-learning communities (academic summer programs, residential high schools, or higher education).
Highly dependable, with a strong focus on ensuring the safety and well-being of participants.
Strong background in risk management and/or compliance for youth programs.
Experience working with diverse young adults, ideally in a residential, and/or camp setting.
Demonstrated success in supervising and training staff
Excellent organizational skills; able to manage multiple priorities independently.
Exceptional communication and relationship-building skills with students, parents, faculty, and staff.
High energy, resilience, and ability to foster a positive, student-centered environment.
Valid driver’s license required; CPR/First Aid certification preferred
Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States.

Responsibilities

Collaborate with Thrive staff to design and lead orientation and welcome weekend programming.
Oversee the execution of off-site trips and enrichment activities.
Ensure smooth execution of all daily operations and schedules.
Assist with budgets, supplies, housing assignments, and program logistics.
Maintain regular communication with Thrive leadership, addressing issues proactively.
Oversee vehicle use, keys, and campus resources.
Complete program closeout tasks, including supply inventory, final reporting and returning host institution property.
Train, supervise, and support Assistant Site Directors (ASDs)
Lead daily staff meetings and conduct individual check-ins.
Provide constructive feedback to ensure staff growth and high performance.
Monitor student safety, well-being, and engagement.
Address residential, academic, and socio-emotional concerns as they arise.
Uphold program policies and Code of Conduct, providing guidance and discipline when needed.
Serve as primary contact for parents during the program.