Elmhurst University is seeking a dynamic, student-centered professional to lead our Housing and Residence Life program. The Director is responsible for the strategic vision, operations, and community development of a residential program that serves approximately 900 students across six residence halls, two apartment communities, and 14 campus houses. This position plays a key role in fostering a safe, inclusive, and engaging living-learning environment that supports student development and institutional retention goals.
The Director oversees daily operations, staff supervision, budgeting, and facilities coordination. They directly supervise professional staff and provide leadership to Head Residents—undergraduate or graduate student leaders who, in turn, manage teams of Resident Advisers. This is a live on campus position. The housing accommodation is an 800-900 sq ft apartment with 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom. It is furnished and located in West Hall with access to on-site laundry.
- Provides proactive leadership in developing a vibrant and inclusive residential campus community that fosters student engagement, supports retention, and advances institutional student success initiatives.
- Serves as the primary on-call contact for residential crisis response and is available to respond during emergency situations as needed.
- Selects, trains, supervises, and evaluates professional staff.
- Ensures the selection, training, and evaluation process of Head Residents and Resident Advisers (RAs).
- Promotes Head Resident and RA visibility and all aspects of positive community development throughout the residential facilities.
- Coordinates processes for room selection and housing assignments, housing agreements, student account billing, and occupancy reports.
- Manages the Housing and Residence Life departmental budget.
- Oversees central office management, student housing files, and requests for release from housing.
- Coordinates with Student Affairs colleagues, as needed, to assist and support as a conduct administrator within the residential community.
- Works with the Facilities Management on operational issues regarding residential facility improvements.
- Develops and implements a departmental strategic plan aligned with the University mission and strategic plan.
- Enforces University policies and addresses and reports all policy violations.
- Responds to students, staff, faculty, and others within and outside of the University community in a timely manner to properly answer questions and address concerns.
- Develops marketing tools for processes such as room selection and move-in and information for prospective students.
- Collaborates with various campus partners on processes and programs.
- Serves on University and divisional committees as assigned.
- Ensures compliance with the Clery Act, FERPA, Title IX, the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act, and other applicable regulations.
- Serves as a Campus Security Authority (CSA) under the Clery Act and a Mandated Reporter under Title IX.
- Maintains high standards of professionalism, confidentiality, and ethical behavior.
- Communicates effectively across all mediums and keep staff informed in a timely and transparent manner.
- Supports mission, vision and values of Elmhurst University.
- Demonstrates a strong commitment to continuous improvement.
- Performs other duties and completes special projects as assigned.
- Master’s degree in Student Affairs, Higher Education, Counseling, or a related field
- At least five years of experience in college/university housing and residence life
- Experience supervising paraprofessional, graduate, and/or professional staff
- Demonstrated commitment and ability to work with a diverse student body and staff
- Solid understanding of student development and leadership theories.
- Collaborative team player with strong interpersonal skills.
- Excellent problem-solving, communication, and technology skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities with attention to detail.
- Flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends as needed.
- Commitment to exceptional service to students and campus partners.
- Experience with housing software (e.g., StarRez, Symplicity, or similar platforms)
- Familiarity with best practices in residential curriculum and learning communities
- Experience with residential student conduct or crisis management at a mid-size or small institution
Employee is subject to indoor work, protected from weather conditions. Work is sedentary in nature and involves exerting up to 10 lbs. of force occasionally and/or a negligible amount of force frequently/constantly in order to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move object.
Work Hours Posting Date 07/31/2025 Closing Date Open Until Filled Yes Special Instructions to Applicants
An overview of Elmhurst University benefits is available here.
Elmhurst University is a leading four-year institution of higher education that seamlessly blends a liberal arts education and professional preparation to help students acquire knowledge and skills for enduring success. Founded in 1871, Elmhurst now offers more than 70 undergraduate programs of study, more than 20 graduate and certificate programs in flexible formats, and the Elmhurst Learning and Success Academy for young adults with differing abilities. Elmhurst University ranks among the top 10 best regional colleges and universities in the Midwest, according to U.S. News & World Report.
Recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce is a critical component of the University’s mission, vision and core values. Our commitment stems from the belief that an institution of higher learning is enriched by the presence of diversity. Elmhurst University is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, religion, age, creed, ancestry, veteran status, marital status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce is a critical component of the University’s mission, vision and core values. Our commitment stems from the belief that an institution of higher learning is enriched by the presence of diversity. Elmhurst University is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, religion, age, creed, ancestry, veteran status, marital status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law.
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