Application Process
Our RA hiring process happens once a year, typically during January or February of the current academic year. The employment period of an RA begins in August and ends after the Residence Move-out date.
Applications will only be accepted between December and January, and we hire a combination of new and returning RAs. If you are interested in becoming a new RA, please fill out the application form here.
Only current RAs may apply for the returning and Senior RA roles. If you are interested in becoming a returning RA or a Senior RA, please fill out the application form here (will be posted in November).
Job Description
The position of a Residence Assistant requires an individual who is self-motivated, capable of functioning independently or within a group, possesses strong leadership skills, and is willing to commit their efforts to the enhancement of the department of Student Life. They will be expected to provide support to residents and act as a mentor throughout their time in Student Life.
Under the supervision of a Coordinator, Student Life, the RA is expected to demonstrate a commitment to residence life by working to create a sense of community that contributes to individual growth and supports intercultural inclusion.
RAs may be approached by students who have experienced challenges or are impacted by high-risk concerns such as thoughts of suicide, sexual assault, domestic violence, mental health concerns, and self-harm. RAs are responsible for providing support and connecting students to resources. They will be expected to demonstrate active listening skills and gather key points related to concerns. They do not provide counselling. RAs will have constant support via the professional team, and there will always be someone they can connect with after hours.
RAs will be trained in these high-risk areas in order to provide an appropriate response and support to residence students. RAs will be trained and certified in safeTALK suicide awareness.
Qualifications
Must be a full-time student and maintain a minimum CGPA of at least 65% while employed with Student Life. RAs whose CGPA drops below 65% will be on probation for the duration of their contract, or until their CGPA meets this requirement.
Understanding of the Student Life Department operation and familiarity with campus resources and services is an asset. All RAs must complete Standard First Aid & CPR Level C and a Vulnerable Sector Check through their local Police Department prior to the start of their contract.
Roles and Responsibilities
RAs are expected to assume responsibility for their assigned area and the general residence population; to work toward the goal of developing community; and to promptly report and follow-up on all issues in their area. RAs are expected to develop quality working relationships with their colleagues and Student Life staff.
The incumbent will be part of an on-duty schedule; will be responsible for supporting students and making themselves available when needed for advising or referrals; and will be required to enforce community standards by addressing unacceptable behavior and documenting and following up when needed. The RA will be required to fill duties as they are assigned in the role of an educator, not an enforcer. They will work to promote the living and learning environment.
All RAs are required to attend the eight-day RA Training that occurs in the month of August.
Other duties include but are not limited to:
- Developing community
- Roommate agreements
- Floor meetings
- Programming
- Committee work
- Being a role model