VCSU Resident Assistant 2025-2026

This is a part-time, non-benefited position. Only VCSU students are eligible to be hired in this position. Unsolicited applications to this posting will NOT be considered or responded to. This position is subjected to North Dakota Veteran's Preference requirements.

Position Summary:

An RA is a peer leader who lives and works in the VCSU Residence Halls as assigned by the Director for Residence Life. RAs are expected to build a strong sense of community in their halls while enforcing the policies set forth in the VCSU Student Handbook and the VCSU Residence Hall Handbook. Typical RA responsibilities include serving in an on-call rotation, completing safety checks of the building, implementing relevant programs, and communicating with residents. Other areas of responsibility include:

• Availability & Presence
  RAs should be highly visible and available in their community. A good rule of thumb is to not be gone more than two weekends a month. All days away must be communicated to Hall Directors. While on campus, RAs should strive to be approachable, empathetic, and fair so that all residents feel comfortable seeking them out for questions and guidance. RAs should make an effort to regularly visit and reach out to residents.
• Peer Leadership and Mentoring
  RAs should be knowledgeable about VCSU and Valley City resources and refer students to these as necessary. RAs should role model appropriate behavior in the Residence Halls by abiding by all Residence Life and Student Conduct policies and state and federal laws. Professional customer service is expected while on duty.
• Programming
  RAs will make and post creative door decorations and bulletin boards twice a semester. They will also plan and implement social and educational programs 4-6 times per semester. Additional programming requirements include supporting and encouraging residents to support other campus events (ex. VCAB events, home sporting events, etc.)
• Facilities Maintenance
  RAs should develop a sense of ownership for their community, building, and all residence halls. They will assist residents with reporting facilities concerns and regularly visit any community spaces in their community (lounges, laundry, bathrooms, etc.) Small issues, such as trash or litter removal, are to be handled independently. RAs are expected to develop positive working relationships with Facilities Services employees.
• Policy Enforcement and Liability Management
  RAs will confront and document any behaviors that violate the Residence Hall Handbook, Student Code of Conduct, or State/Federal Laws. 24/7 support is available through Residence Life Staff, Power House, and Valley City Emergency Services.
• Duty Expectations
  RAs should plan on being on-duty one night per week and 1-2 weekends per month (depending on the rotation schedule). When on-duty, RAs will carry their phones from 7:00pm-7:00pm. All calls will be answered and emergencies immediately reported to the appropriate resources. Weeknight duty – RA must stay within their building from 7:00pm-7:00am. Weekend duty – RAs may leave campus from 7:00am-7:00pm, but must be within 10 minutes of campus at all times. While on-duty, RAs will conduct rounds to take notes on any concerns about the building.
• Time Obligations
  An RA works around 15-20 hours per week. RAs should only work on-campus jobs, and any second jobs may not conflict with the RA job or exceed 15 hours per week. RAs working off-campus jobs must obtain permission in writing. RAs will arrive approximately two weeks before classes being in the fall and a few days before classes begin in the spring for training and to prep the halls to open. RAs will also stay for a day or two after graduation in each semester to help with hall closing. RAs are asked to contribute to a more limited staffing of the halls over holidays and breaks. Bi-weekly staff meetings, bi-weekly one-on-one meetings, and monthly all staff meetings can also be expected.
• Qualifications
  • One (1) semester of college
  • One (1) semester of living in the residence halls
  • Minimal conduct record
  • Minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA
  • Minimum 12 credit hours per semester
• Compensation
  • Single Room
  • 10 Meals Per Week Meal Plan (RAs wanting additional meals can pay the difference for a higher meal plan. RAs opting for a lower meal plan do not receive extra compensation for this reduction.)
  • RAs may be offered additional compensation for holiday/break coverage at the Director’s discretion ranging from $15-$60 per day.

Contact Information:

Please refer position questions to erin.edinger@vcsu.edu or call 701-845-7928.

If you would like assistance with your application, please contact Janna Kohler, Director for Career Services, at janna.kohler@vcsu.edu.

Additional Information:

If interested, click on the (Apply for Job) button. Resume and Cover Letter encouraged but not required.