Residence Operations Specialist

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.

As the operational hub connecting Residence Life, Student Affairs, Facilities, and Financial Services, you will help create a residential environment where students can thrive academically, socially, and spiritually. Whether managing housing assignments, overseeing billing processes, maintaining digital systems, or assisting families with questions, your work will directly contribute to a welcoming and well‑organized campus community.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys balancing analytical problem‑solving with meaningful relationship‑building, takes pride in creating efficient systems, and is passionate about serving students in Bethel's Christ-centered higher education environment.

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

• Design, maintain, and optimize user‑friendly online housing applications and dining selection processes. Serve as the departmental expert and lead on our 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 grad rentals.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for students and families navigating housing and dining policies, managing the central Housing inbox with care and efficiency.
• 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

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 is highly preferred.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

Strong project management and organizational skills with an ability to manage multiple timelines (like move‑in logistics) calmly and efficiently.

Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex housing policies into clear, welcoming instructions for families.

Strong critical thinking skills, with an affinity for data accuracy, reporting, and problem‑solving.

Proven ability to handle confidential student data and sensitive financial situations with absolute professionalism and empathy.

The essential functions, tasks and responsibilities of this position may change from time to time. Bethel University reserves the right to add or omit duties and responsibilities at the discretion of the University or…