Residence Operations Specialist

About this position

Bethel University is a leader in Christ-centered higher education with approximately 4,700 students from 50 states and 32 countries enrolled in undergraduate, graduate, seminary, and adult education programs. Based in St. Paul, Minnesota, Bethel offers bachelor's and advanced degrees in nearly 100 fields. Educationally excellent classroom-based and online programs equip graduates to make exceptional contributions in life-long service to God and the world.

Bethel University’s Christ-centered mission includes a commitment to equal educational opportunity and equal employment opportunity. Bethel does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, national origin, sex, marital status, disability, status with regard to public assistance, familial status, or age in its admissions, educational programs, or employment practices.

At Bethel University, the Residence Life Operations Specialist plays a critical role in shaping the student experience by ensuring housing and dining operations run smoothly from application to move-in and beyond. This position combines operational excellence, data management, financial administration, and exceptional customer service to support students and families during some of their most important transitions.

This is an in‑person role in Arden Hills, MN, with a starting wage of $24.75 to $25.00 per hour.

• Design, maintain, and optimize user‑friendly online housing applications and dining selection processes.
• Serve as the departmental expert and lead on housing administration and the database.
• Collaborate with the Student Life Office Coordinator to keep the webpage up to date with all offerings.
• Facilitate a smooth and supportive housing and dining selection experience for all students, including specialized housing cycles such as study abroad transitions, summer housing, and graduate rentals.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for students and families navigating housing and dining policies, managing the central Housing inbox.
• Lead the logistics for break housing, mid‑year room moves, cancellations, room transfers, key inventories, and early arrivals.
• Partner closely with Facilities to ensure residence halls are pristine and ready for Fall move‑in and collaborate with Conference and Event Services to coordinate summer rentals.
• Process student housing charges, check‑out fines, damage fees, and cancellations accurately.
• Respond timely to complex billing inquiries from students and parents, making fair, policy‑driven decisions regarding refunds and financial appeals.
• Train Residence Life staff to use software for housing applications, generating reports, and interpreting data.
• Partner with the Student Life Office Coordinator to keep the department website modern, accurate, and accessible.
• Participate in cross‑functional campus initiatives, staff meetings, and retention efforts to enhance the overall student experience.

• Required
  
  Education:
  
  High School Degree or equivalent.
• Preferred Education: Bachelor’s degree.
• Required Experience: 2+ years of experience managing databases or information systems within a complex environment (e.g., higher education, property management, or corporate operations).
• Preferred Experience: Proficiency with Salesforce or equivalent modern CRM/web platforms, Google Workspace, and Microsoft Office.
• Operational Excellence: Strong project management and organizational skills with an ability to manage multiple timelines calmly and efficiently.
• Clear Communication: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex housing policies into clear, welcoming instructions for families.
• Analytical Mindset: Strong critical thinking skills, with an affinity for data accuracy, reporting, and problem‑solving.
• Discretion: Proven ability to handle confidential student data and sensitive financial situations with absolute professionalism and empathy.

Pay Range
: $24.75 – $25.00 per hour.

Benefits
:
Bethel offers health insurance, retirement plans, and a generous time‑off package.

Travel
:
This position does not require travel.

Work Environment
:
Professional office environment utilizing desktop/laptop computers, printers, and smartphones.

Physical Demands
:
Regular speaking, hearing, and extended periods of sitting while traversing the campus.

Expected Hours of Work
:
Monday through Friday, typical 40‑hour per week; occasional evening and weekend work may be required.

Sponsorship Restrictions
:
Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.;
Bethel is unable to sponsor employment visas.