Professional Graduate Assistant for University Apartments
Percent
Application Deadline
Type
Pre-professional Graduate AssistantshipPosition Start Date
Description, Responsibilities, and Qualifications
PRIMARY FUNCTION SUMMARY:
The Professional Graduate Assistant for Family & Graduate Housing is responsible for providing support and assistance to residents residing in the apartment community regarding resident concerns, conflicts, and crisis. The PGA will utilize their skill set to assist residents in resolving interpersonal and intergroup conflicts and mediate as needed.
MAJOR DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
Community Development and Leadership Responsibilities (35%)
- Design innovative and creative strategies for meeting the needs of university apartment residents.
- Build relationships with and provide support to specific identified populations within the apartment communities including but not limited to parents & families, children (under the age of 18), graduate students, and international residents.
- Assist in evaluation and assessment of curricular strategies in the apartment communities.
- Educate residents and staff regarding University and Housing policies and procedures.
- Demonstrate self-awareness of social identities, privilege and biases while actively engaged in learning about other cultures, viewpoints, and traditions to serve a diverse resident population.
- Utilize a wide range of interpersonal skills to build and sustain an inclusive community.
Resident Intervention & Care Coordination Responsibilities (40%)
- Assist student staff with responding to resident concerns in the Family & Graduate Housing community.
- Provide in person, periodic follow-up with residents directly after an incident.
- Inform residents about the support services available to residents on campus and in the community.
- Provide mediation to residents, as needed.
- Work alongside Complex Coordinator for University Apartments to determine strategy and response needed for each resident case.
Administrative Responsibilities (20%)
- Participate in apartment staff meetings as directed by the Complex Coordinator and engage in professional development opportunities.
- Assist in day-to-day operations of the Family & Graduate Housing office as necessary.
- Participate in various administrative tasks within the community, such as lease renewal campaign, resident check-in/out, and all other events, as needed.
- Provide emergency support for On-call rotation, as needed.
Professional Responsibilities (5%)
- Maintain an effective working relationship with the Complex Coordinator and all University Housing staff.
- Be open and receptive to constructive criticism and feedback.
- Demonstrate a positive attitude toward the position, area community, Family & Graduate Housing, and University Housing.
- Demonstrate an ability to work with and appreciate individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Compensation
Appointment Terms:
This PGA is 50% (20 hours per week) position that is appointed for 9-month appointment and a start date of August 17, 2026. The stipend is based on the minimum salary for the appointment type. Students will receive a base in-state tuition waiver for fall and spring semesters. Applicants must be enrolled in the School of Social Work and available to work fall and spring semesters. Position requires night and weekend work hours.
Application Procedure
To apply, submit a resume, a letter of application, and the names, emails, and phone numbers of three references. In your letter, please answer the following questions: 1. Tell us what interests you about the Professional Graduate Assistant position with Family & Graduate Housing. 2. Tell us about your experience working in a multicultural environment. 3. Describe your approach to handling conflict and stressful situations. Please mail to Family & Graduate Housing, 1841 Orchard Place, Urbana, Illinois 61801, or email the application to fghjobs@housing.illinois.edu. Applications received by 10 PM, March 22, 2026, will receive priority consideration. We will continue to take applications until the position is filled. See our website for more information about Family & Graduate Housing, www.housing.illinois.edu.
The University of Illinois is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. The University of Illinois conducts criminal background checks on all job candidates upon acceptance of a contingent offer.