Dates: June 8-July 31, 2026
Pay: $2,600 with Housing & Meals
Location: University of Delaware – Newark Campus
Schedule: Residential (24/7 responsibility with a half-day off); 37.5 hours active work

Time off: 

• Holidays
• Weekends
• After work

*Note that the Dorm Director will still be on call when living in the dorms.

About the Program

Upward Bound is a federally funded TRIO program designed to support high school students in their preparation for college. The program serves students from diverse backgrounds and provides academic instruction, enrichment opportunities, and college readiness support in a structured residential setting.

Why This Role Stands Out

The Dorm Director role offers a valuable leadership opportunity to guide both students and staff in a dynamic residential setting. You’ll gain hands-on experience in supervision, program management, and student support while making a meaningful impact on students’ college readiness journey.

This position is ideal for individuals interested in student affairs, education, counseling, or leadership roles in youth development programs.

What You’ll Do

The Dorm Director will be on-site Monday through Friday during the first 3-weeks of the program and will transition to a full residential (live-in) role in the residence halls for the final 3-weeks.

Residential Leadership & Staff Supervision

• Supervise and support residential staff, including Resident Advisors (RAs)
• Provide guidance, feedback, and mentorship to staff members
• Foster a collaborative and positive team environment

Residential Life Management

• Oversee daily residence hall operations and student activities
• Ensure student safety and well-being at all times
• Enforce program policies, curfews, and community expectations
• Coordinate and support evening and weekend programming

Student Support & Engagement

• Serve as a mentor and role model for participants
• Respond to student concerns, conflicts, and emergencies with care and professionalism
• Promote a positive, inclusive, and respectful residential community

Program Support

• Maintain accurate records, including incident reports and student conduct documentation
• Collaborate with program staff to support students’ academic and social development
• Assist with program planning and implementation as needed

Skills You’ll Gain

• Leadership and team supervision
• Conflict resolution and crisis management
• Program coordination and operations management
• Professional communication and decision-making
• Experience in residential life and student development

What We’re Looking For

Strong candidates are:

• Supportive, approachable, and confident leaders
• Organized and able to manage multiple responsibilities
• Comfortable supervising and mentoring both staff and students
• Strong communicators who can navigate challenges with professionalism
• Committed to fostering an inclusive and student-centered environment

Qualifications

• Must be 18 years or older
• High School Diploma
• College student (Junior or Senior preferred but not required)
• Experience working with students in educational or residential settings
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills
• Ability to supervise, motivate, and support a team
• Commitment to working with diverse and underserved student populations
• CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with TRIO or Upward Bound programs
• Background in residential life or student affairs
• Experience with summer bridge or pre-college programs

Hiring Timeline:

• Application Review: April 1st - April 30th
• Interviews: April 15th -May 15th 
• Offers Extended: Before the end of Finals 

Please note that dates are subject to change depending on the needs of the department.

Applicants must be undergraduate students at the University of Delaware. Work study eligibility can be found here. Applicants who are not enrolled as undergraduate students at the University will not be considered for this position. Employment Limitations and Exceptions