Resident Director -Jennings Hall, Smit Bell Duplexes and Chapel Coordinator

Expectation and Condition of Employment

Howard Payne University, a church-related institution affiliated with the Baptist General Convention of Texas, seeks to employ evangelical Christians who are dedicated to teaching and service as they model the principles of the Christian faith and the University’s sincere religious beliefs.

Howard Payne University (hereafter, University) is committed to the integration of learning and Christian faith in the pursuit of truth. Employees are expected to embrace the Christian Mission Statement and Core Values of the University and must support the University’s affirmation of traditional Christian and Baptist beliefs by leading lives of service through active involvement in Christian activities both on campus and through a local church.

Mission Statement

Howard Payne University is a Christ-centered academic community dedicated to excellence by developing and equipping the whole person for intellectual inquiry, personal and professional integrity, and service to God and humanity.

Core Values of Howard Payne University

We believe and affirm that the University as an institution and each individual called to serve the Lord at Howard
Payne should strive to demonstrate a commitment to these five Core Values:

• Centered on Christ   (cf. Col. 3:17, Matt. 7:24)


• Focused on Community   (cf. Eph. 4:4-6, 1 Pet. 3:8)


• Called to Service   (cf. Mark 10:45, Phil. 2:3-5)


• Committed to Excellence   (cf. Gen. 1:31, 1 Cor. 9:24)


• Dedicated to Stewardship   (cf. Gen. 2:15, 1 Pet. 4:10)

As a condition of employment, employees agree to be paid by Direct Deposit. Applicants offered contingent employment based on the University obtaining a clean background check agree the contingent offer of employment may be revoked based on the information obtained in the background check.

If offered employment, your acceptance will indicate that you have read and agree to the Expectations and Conditions above.

Application Procedure

To be considered for this position, please submit the following:

• a letter of application addressing in detail how you meet the position requirements


• a resume or CV (curriculum vitae)


• unofficial transcripts, and


• a completed HPU Employment Application

Job Summary 

The Resident Director - Jennings Hall, Smith Bell Duplexes and Chapel Coordinator is a full-time, 12-month, live-in professional staff member responsible for providing Christ-centered leadership within an assigned residential community.

As a Resident Director, the employee will cultivate a living and learning environment reflecting Howard Payne University’s Mission Statement and Core Values, fostering holistic student development grounded in Biblical truth, personal responsibility, and Christian character.

The Resident Director advances a residential culture that supports intellectual growth, spiritual formation, personal integrity, and service to others. Through consistent presence, relational engagement, and principled leadership, the Resident Director promotes a community environment marked by accountability, respect, discipleship, and stewardship.

The Resident Director (RD) primarily assists with the operations of a residence life system comprised of three resident directors, 18-20 Resident Assistants (RAs), and 450 residents across three residence halls and several apartment units. Specifically, the RD oversees operational aspects of the assigned residence hall and duplexes. As an integral position within the Student Experience team, the RD supports and administers many student development and residence life functions. The position directly supervises paraprofessional staff; recruits, selects, and trains paraprofessional staff; coordinates staff meetings; works with campus maintenance and housekeeping departments; manages hall budgets; addresses individual student concerns; has opportunities to advise student groups and organizations; develops community within living/learning environments; monitors and enforces published policies and regulations; facilitates student conduct meetings; develops co-curricular programming; and manages the residence life systems and residence hall operations. The RD participates in a duty rotation for weekends, holidays, and breaks.

Additionally, if the individual has the interests and qualifications, the RD may assist in the operations of other Student Experience areas. The RD reports directly to the Dean of Students. The RD addresses the needs of residential students and the residential community by performing the following duties.

As the chapel coordinator, this position will work with the Office of the President, Office of University Services, the Chapel Worship Coordinator, and Vice President for Student Experience to secure logistical items for chapel, chapel guests, and services. Specifically, working with guests to arrange travel accommodations, maintaining chapel attendance records, and managing the chapel travel and honorarium budget. 

In all responsibilities, the Resident Director - Jennings Hall, Smith Bell Duplexes and Chapel Coordinator models Christian integrity, exercises sound judgment, and upholds University policies and Biblical standards of conduct.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Staff Supervision, Development, and Evaluation

1. Supervise resident assistants.


2. Schedule and conduct regular staff meetings.


3. Arrange resident assistant duty schedules.


4. Plan and implement recruitment, selection, training, and evaluation programs for all resident assistants.


5. Design and develop staff training sessions to improve the skills of resident assistants.

Program Development

1. Supervise day to day operations of the assigned residence hall community.


2. Support student sponsored events and activities.


3. Serve as a source of information for staff, residents, guests, alumni, administration, faculty, and parents.


4. Assist with the coordination of special programs and celebrations.


5. Facilitate and assist with the planning, organizing, promotion, and presentation of co-curricular activities for students that focus on issues such as personal wellness, social development, spiritual development, physical development, cultural sensitivity and awareness, and career development.


6. Establish, maintain, and support a positive, healthy, living/learning environment that is consistent with the goals of the residence life system and the Student Experience department.


7. Maintain visibility and approachability to all residents within the residence life system.


8. Conduct community meetings throughout the semester as needed.


9. Assist staff in assessing resident needs and interests.


10. Ensure that staff plan, coordinate, and implement regular educational, social, spiritual, recreational, cultural, and community service programs and projects.


11. Maintain accurate records of all student and staff-initiated programming. Develop and submit reports for residence hall programming as directed.

Student Conduct

1. Work to educate residents of all published policies and regulations.


2. Confront situations and students who impose upon community standards and violate published policies and regulations.


3. Work with the Vice President for Student Experience and Dean of Students by investigating, adjudicating, or administering conduct cases.


4. Represent the Vice President for Student Experience and Dean of Students as a hearing officer when requested.


5. Ensure departmental compliance with university and division policies and procedures.

Housing Operations

1. Assist with the daily operations of the residence life program.


2. Assist with oversight of the Smith Bell duplexes occupied by part-time graduate employees.


3. Coordinate system and hall operations, such as: opening and closing, check-in/out, room changes, room assignments, and damage assessments.


4. Serve as liaison to maintenance and housekeeping.


5. Coordinate assigned central office responsibilities, such as: housing contracts/assignments, room changes, summer conferences, opening/closing, RA training, RD training, staff manuals, faculty involvement, room selection, RA recruitment and selection, programming reports, administer quality of life or related surveys, and coordinate RA evaluations.

Research, Student Assessment, and Publications

The RD keeps abreast of current student development programs in higher education institutions across the United States and researches new ideas or methods. The RD also coordinates or assists with the development of all department publications.

1. Assist with Howard Payne University Student Handbook revisions.


2. Remain abreast of and have the ability to discuss current events taking place in the higher education field.


3. Assist with the ongoing department research into topics relating to student development, residence life, student activities, student retention, and student involvement.


4. Assist with the representation of Howard Payne University locally, regionally, and nationally as opportunities are available.


5. Seek opportunities to engage in professional organizations and activities (association membership, conference attendance, publications, etc.).

Administrative

The Resident Director is a member of the Student Experience professional staff team and works to develop opportunities for student growth and effective department operations.

1. The RD must be available at times to work evenings and weekends in the residence halls, and may be called upon to work on inter-departmental projects. The RD will share on-call responsibilities, including nights, weekends, holidays, and breaks.


2. Participate in University and departmental committee work and projects, providing leadership when appropriate. Coordinate or assist with assigned student life responsibilities, such as: advising student groups; designing and developing publications; and facilitating workshops and campus-wide activities.


3. Monitor department budget.


4. Respond immediately to crisis situations and emergencies.


5. Assist with the monitoring of chapel on a weekly basis.


6. Assist with preview weekends, summer pre-registration, and orientation as assigned.


7. Promote, listen to and address concerns of the university community relative to student development programs both on and off campus.


8. Develop relationships and joint programs with other University departments.


9. Maintain network with professionals in the field throughout the region and country.


10. Complete end of the semester/year reports.


11. Complete other duties, projects, and responsibilities as assigned by the Dean of Students or Vice President for Student Experience.
    

Chapel Coordinator Duties

1. Secure housing, meal, and travel accommodations for all chapel guests.


2. Work with Office of Student Experience to collect Chapel attendance.


3. Upload chapel attendance after service each week and maintain chapel attendance materials.


4. Work with the members of the praise band to help foster spiritual growth and maturity.


5. Work with the chapel committee to gather input for possible speakers and bands.


6. Communicate with guests to inform them of all needs and, if applicable, handle special needs.


7. Secure all needed event venues for chapel meetings and praise band rehearsals.


8. Work with the Vice President for Student Experience to prepare and administer all budget items related to the chapel area.

Supervisory Responsibilities

Directly supervises student resident assistants in assigned residence hall. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the university's policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing; recommending for hire; training; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; addressing complaints and resolving problems.

Required Competencies:  To perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:

1. Christian Leadership and Integrity- Models Christian faith and character consistent with the University’s Mission Statement and Core Values; demonstrates ethical conduct, sound judgment, and personal accountability


2. Leadership and Staff Development- Effectively leads, mentors, and develops student leaders; establishes clear expectations; provides feedback and accountability


3. Communication and Confidentiality- Communicates clearly and professionally in written and verbal formats; maintains appropriate confidentiality; exercises discretion in handling sensitive student information


4. Conflict Resolution and Judgment- Addresses conflict calmly and fairly; applies policies consistently; exercises sound judgment in emotionally complex situations


5. Organizational and Administrative Effectiveness- Manages time, schedules, documentation, and reports effectively; demonstrates dependability and follow-through


6. Crisis Response and Safety Awareness- Responds appropriately to emergencies; maintains composure under pressure; understands and follows University safety and reporting protocols


7. Technical Proficiency and Professional Growth- Demonstrates competence in relevant technology systems and participates in ongoing training to remain current in-residence life best practices


8. Institutional Commitment and Collaboration- Supports the University’s mission, strategic goals, and community standards; collaborates effectively with campus partners


9. Problem Solving - Identifies and resolves problems in a timely manner; Gathers and analyzes information skillfully; Develops alternative solutions; Works well in group problem solving situations; Uses reason even when dealing with emotional topics


10. Customer Service - Effectively manages difficult or emotional situations; Solicits feedback to improve service; Responds promptly and effectively to requests for service and assistance; Meets commitments


11. Interpersonal Skills - Focuses on solving conflict, not blaming; Maintains confidentiality; Listens to others without interrupting; Keeps emotions under control; Remains open to others' ideas and tries new things


12. Oral Communication - Speaks clearly and persuasively in positive or negative situations; listens and gets clarification; Responds well to questions; Demonstrates group presentation skills; Participates in meetings


13. Teamwork - Balances team and individual responsibilities; Exhibits objectivity and openness to others' views; Gives and welcomes feedback; Contributes to building a positive team spirit; Puts success of team above own interests; Able to build morale and group commitments to goals and objectives; Supports everyone's efforts to succeed


14. Managing People - Includes staff in planning, decision-making, facilitating and process improvement; Takes responsibility for subordinates' activities; Makes their self available to staff; Provides regular performance feedback; Develops subordinates' skills and encourages growth; Solicits and applies customer feedback (internal and external); Fosters quality focus in others; Improves processes, products and services; Continually works to improve supervisory skills


15. Ethics - Treats people with respect; Keeps commitments; Inspires the trust of others; Works with integrity and ethically; Upholds the University's Mission Statement and values


16. University Support - Follows policies and procedures; Completes administrative tasks correctly and on time; supports the University's goals and values; Benefits the University through outside activities; Supports affirmative action and respects diversity


17. Planning/Organizing - Prioritizes and plans work activities; Uses time efficiently; Plans for additional resources; Sets goals and objectives; Organizes or schedules other people and their tasks; Develops realistic action plans


18. Professionalism - Approaches others in a tactful manner; Reacts well under pressure; Treats others with respect and consideration regardless of their status or position; Accepts responsibility for own actions; Follows through on commitments

Qualifications

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each Essential Duty and Responsibility listed above satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the Essential Duties and Responsibilities                                   

1. Education and/or Experience - Bachelor's degree required. Master's degree in student development, counseling, or closely related area and a minimum of one year of experience in residence life or other student affairs/development area preferred


2. Language Skills - Ability to read, analyze, and interpret general business or education periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, or governmental regulations. Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals.  Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of administrators, students, faculty, and the public


3. Math Skills - Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide in all units of measure, using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals. Ability to compute rate, ratio, and percent and to draw and interpret bar graphs


4. Reasoning Ability - Ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form


5. Computer Skills - To perform this job successfully, an individual should have knowledge of Internet software; Spreadsheet software and Word Processing software


6. Certificates and Licenses - Must maintain a valid Texas driver's license


7. Other Qualifications - Only male candidates may apply for Resident Director positions in men's residence halls at Howard Payne University. Enthusiastic desire to minister to and serve college students. Prior supervision of paraprofessional staff at the university level and strong skills in written and oral communication, group facilitation, and program presentation preferred. An understanding of assessment and research methods helpful. Ability to work evenings and weekends is mandatory


8. Physical Abilities – The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the Essential Duties and Responsibilities of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the Essential Duties and Responsibilities. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to climb stairs; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; talk and hear and taste or smell. The employee is frequently required to stand and walk. The employee is occasionally required to sit; climb or balance and stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift up to 100 pounds.  Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus


9. Normal Work Environment -
   The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the Essential Duties and Responsibilities of this job.Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the Essential Duties and Responsibilities.  While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally exposed to moving mechanical parts; the risk of electrical shock; toxic or caustic chemicals; fumes or airborne particles and caustic cleaning or landscaping chemicals used to maintain campus property.  The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate