Working at Rutgers Residence Life
Learn about our mission and strategic areas
A major component of Rutgers’ Student Affairs Division, named the 2017 Most Promising Place to Work in Student Affairs, Rutgers Residence Life is home to the country’s largest housing program with over 16,000 residential students. Specialty areas within the department include:
- Assessment and Research
- Assignments
- Business Services
- Marketing & Communications
- Operations/Conference Services
- Student Conduct
- Student Leadership
- Student Support/Accommodations
- Living-Learning Communities
- International Programs and Outreach
- Diversity Education and Outreach
- Staff Selection and Training
Our campus staff consists of graduate residence life staff, professional level residence life coordinators, and directors on each of our four residential campuses. Below is a brief description of our most common professional entry-level position:
The Residence Life Coordinator (RLC) reports to the Associate Director of Residence Life for one of four campuses and is responsible for the day-to-day operations, activities and services for 500 to 1,200 students living in residence halls and/or apartments. Supervises undergraduate and/or graduate staff, Assistant Residence Life Coordinator(s), and develops a team that will implement all the activities, programs and services needed to create inclusive communities that reflect the mission and goals of Residence Life. Responds effectively and efficiently to resident concerns, and works with colleagues to address facilities related issues. Advises and develops students involved with hall government, living learning community peer mentors, and in-hall student leaders with an emphasis on empowerment and leadership development. Supports the daily operations of Residence Life and the fostering of a unique campus culture. The RLC will participate in campus based, departmental, and divisional trainings and is responsible for the evaluation of student staff. Performs other duties as required.
Where Are They Now?
Working for Residence Life provides an immersive experience that equips you for any professional challenge. Former staff members have developed the tools to gain leadership positions in residence life, leadership and experiential learning, social justice education, student affairs, academic advising, and other areas within higher education. Many have also found time and encouragement to pursue terminal degrees. Read more about some of our former colleagues and their Rutgers experience:
Sean Dowd
Senior Associate Dean of Students
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Jackie Cetera
Director of Residential Education
Bucknell University
Michael S. Brown Jr.
Assistant Dean
Rutgers School of Engineering
Jacquelyn Wonsey
Director of Residence Life & Housing
Stevenson University
National Network
Rutgers Residence is a nationwide family and growing! Our staff have continued on to positions in 25 of our nation’s 50 states and have worked for institutions such as: Columbia University, Brown University, Bucknell University, University of Michigan, Michigan State University, University of California – Los Angeles, University of California – San Diego, New York University, University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill, Temple University, Lafayette College, University of Connecticut, University of Massachusetts, Florida International University.
Our Community
You’ll find that our community, comprised of the city of New Brunswick and Piscataway Township, is both dynamic and diverse. There are a number of university and community experiences both on and off-campus. Rutgers-New Brunswick is rich with arts and culture ranging from performance art theaters to museums and more. Downtown, you’ll find the finest national and international performing artists at the New Brunswick State Theatre and Stress Factory Comedy Club.
Also located near campus is the city’s New Jersey Transit train station with access many popular destinations such as New York City, Philadelphia, Atlantic City, and Newark Liberty International Airport. For those who love the great outdoors, New Brunswick/Piscataway also offers tranquil landscapes such as the Rutgers Ecological Preserve, the George H. Cook Farm and Rutgers Gardens featuring a fresh and seasonal Farmer’s Market.
Be sure to explore what the Rutgers-New Brunswick campus has to offer through a virtual tour. Next, take a closer look into our four residential campus communities. Discover all the attractions and destinations offered at Rutgers-New Brunswick!
Perks and Benefits
- Competitive salary and benefits
- Tuition remission
- Furnished apartment (for staff serving in on-campus duty rotation)
- Access to professional development funds
- Free access to campus recreation facilities
- Professional live-in partner and staff pet policy
Qualifications
- Most positions prefer a Master’s Degree in Student Affairs Administration, higher education, or closely related field (specialized positions may require unique qualifications)
- Ability to work with a diverse population
- Excellent problem solving skills
- Commitment to students and their development
- Minimum of two years residence life experience
How to Apply
Thank you for your interest in Rutgers Residence Life! Our team is always looking for passionate, committed, engaged, and student-centered staff. We hope you’ll take the time to continue to explore our opportunities and all that Rutgers has to offer. Job descriptions of current openings and other pertinent information will be posted to this page as they are available.
In order to apply for our positions, please visit the Rutgers Human Resources Job Portal. Additional information about university benefits, policies, and job classifications may be found on the Human Resources homepage.
Questions regarding available opportunities may be directed to a member of our Staff Selection and Recruitment staff.
