Being a Residence Director at USF
About USF
The University of San Francisco is a Jesuit, Catholic university rooted in a tradition of academic excellence, social responsibility, and care for the whole person. Founded in 1855, USF is committed to developing thoughtful leaders who work toward a more just, humane, and equitable world. Guided by values of learning, service, and the common good, the university fosters an environment where both students and staff are encouraged to lead with purpose and integrity.
Located in the heart of San Francisco, USF offers a distinctive setting where higher education connects directly to a global city. The surrounding community provides access to diverse populations, innovative industries, and meaningful partnerships that shape the student experience. This context informs the university’s approach to education and student support, emphasizing real-world engagement, cultural awareness, and holistic development.
Community is central to the USF experience. Residential Directors play a vital role in creating inclusive, student-centered environments where individuals feel supported, challenged, and empowered. As an RD at USF, you will serve as a mentor, educator, and leader while contributing to a residential experience that reflects the university’s mission and commitment to belonging.
Why San Francisco?
Energy + Balance
In San Francisco, your day does not end when work does. You can go from a busy afternoon on campus to watching the sunset at Ocean Beach, walking through Golden Gate Park, or catching views at Lands End. It is a city that keeps you moving, but also gives you space to pause when you need it.
Food + Culture
If you love trying new food, this city delivers. Think late-night bites in the Mission, dim sum runs in Chinatown, and your go-to coffee spot in the Inner Richmond. Every neighborhood brings something different, and there is always a new place, flavor, or experience waiting around the corner.
Career Growth
San Francisco puts you at the center of innovation and impact. From tech and healthcare to education and nonprofit work, the city is full of people and organizations shaping what comes next. Being here means more opportunities to connect, learn, and grow in ways that extend beyond campus.
A City That Feels Like Home
San Francisco has a way of becoming yours. Maybe it is your favorite weekend routine, the people you build community with, or the spots you keep coming back to. However it happens, the city becomes more than where you live and work. It becomes part of your story.
Office of Community Living
At USF, community is at the center of the student experience. The Office of Community Living supports students both on and off campus by helping them build meaningful connections, develop essential life skills, and access key resources that support their success.
Residential Curriculum
Our residential curriculum is built on intentional, ongoing learning experiences that go beyond traditional programming. Through community engagement, reflection, and peer interaction, students develop a sense of belonging, strengthen interpersonal skills, and grow in their understanding of themselves and others.
Living Learning Communities
Living Learning Communities connect students’ academic and residential experiences through shared courses and community-based learning. Programs explore topics such as social justice, leadership, identity, and community engagement, allowing students to apply what they learn directly to their lives.
Theme Communities & Support
Through theme-based housing and targeted initiatives, students engage in communities that reflect their identities and interests. From gender-inclusive housing to basic needs support and campus partnerships, these spaces are designed to foster inclusion, connection, and holistic well-being.
Residence Director
The Residence Director (RD) is a full-time, twelve-month, live-in professional staff position with a negotiable start date. The initial term ends May 31 of the academic year, with subsequent terms running June 1–May 31. The position is a one-year appointment, renewable up to four years, with a possible fifth year at the discretion of the Assistant Dean of Students. Renewal is based on performance, professional development, and contributions to the Office of Community Living.
As a condition of employment, the Residence Director must reside in university housing on the main campus to effectively fulfill the responsibilities of the role.
The Residence Director supports the overall care and wellness of residents within an assigned community. This includes fostering connections among residents, staff, and campus resources, and implementing a comprehensive residential curriculum for a community of approximately 2,800 students.
The RD may supervise up to two graduate Assistant Residence Directors (ARDs), between 6–16 Resident Advisors (RAs), and oversee building operations and facilities management.
Responsibilities include advising student groups such as the Residence Hall Council (RHC), supporting student leadership development, facilitating academic initiatives, and promoting health, wellness, and alcohol and other drug (AOD) education.
The RD plays a key role in emergency response and crisis management, ensuring student safety and providing appropriate care and intervention when needed.
The RD promotes multicultural awareness and social justice education, fostering an inclusive and supportive residential environment.
The RD collaborates with campus partners, including living-learning communities and orientation programs, and contributes to departmental and university initiatives through committees, special projects, and leadership roles.
SCHEDULE MOCK-UP
KEY PARTNERS
Creates a safe, supportive living environment through residential communities, programs, and resources that enhance student development and belonging.
Supports students’ spiritual and religious growth through programs, pastoral care, and opportunities for reflection and community.
Provides confidential mental health support and counseling to help students maintain emotional well-being and succeed academically and personally.
Offers holistic academic and personal support services to help students thrive and reach their full potential.
Maintains campus spaces, ensuring safe, clean, and functional environments that support learning and daily campus life
Oversees the student conduct process, promoting accountability, personal growth, and a respectful campus community
Ensures a campus environment free from sex and gender-based discrimination by addressing reports of misconduct and providing support resources.
Fosters student involvement and leadership development through programs, organizations, and campus events