Part-Time

Overnight Desk Assistant

Student

Updated on 9/12/2026

Deadline 10/1/26
American University

American University

Research university in Washington, DC

Compensation Overview

$18.60/hr

Washington, DC, USA

In Person

Category
Administrative & Executive Assistance (1)
Required Skills
Workday HRIS
Customer Service

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Requirements
  • Be enrolled full time as an undergraduate student at American University, carrying a minimum of 12 and maximum of 17 credits per semester, unless written permission is obtained to drop below the minimum.
  • Maintain a cumulative GPA and term GPA of at least 2.50 from application through separation.
  • Remain in good conduct standing with the university.
  • Participate in the Desk Assistant interview process.
  • Submit completed human resources and payroll forms to the supervisor or Assistant Director for Residential Operations and Finance, including required paperwork through Workday.
  • Communicate in a timely and professional manner in written and verbal interactions with Housing & Residence Life staff and American University community members.
  • Compile accurate and timely reports for the supervisor, including shift logs and digital systems management.
  • Complete bi-weekly online timesheets on time through Workday.
  • Treat information concerning staff and students confidentially.
  • Attend and fully participate in staff training in August and January before the academic semester begins.
  • Work during residence-hall openings, closings, Finals, and one designated academic break, including some weekend shifts.
  • Work only overnight shifts from 11:00 PM to 7:00 AM and between 8 and 24 hours per week.
  • Attend one Desk Assistant information session.
  • Not hold a Resident Assistant, Day Desk Assistant, or Desk Coordinator position concurrently.
Responsibilities
  • Support front-desk efforts to create a safe living environment for residents.
  • Answer questions from students, families, faculty, staff, prospective students, and alumni in person and by telephone.
  • Check residents’ guests in and out according to protocol.
  • Serve as a liaison between students and the supervisor.
  • Maintain working knowledge of university facilities, services, and resources.
  • Keep the desk clean, maintain binders and logs in their proper locations, and keep supplies stocked.
  • Monitor and enforce access to the residence hall.
  • Follow and help enforce university policies, including the Housing License Agreement, and applicable federal and local regulations.
  • Confront, document, and follow through on violations of published University and Housing & Residence Life policies, regulations, and procedures accurately and promptly.
  • Follow emergency-response protocol at the desk when necessary.
  • Assist with opening, closing, and staffing residence-hall desks during breaks.
  • Check residents in and out of housing assignments using StarRez housing assignment management software.
  • Issue and track mailbox keys and submit Mail Key Replacement Forms when replacements are needed.
  • Follow lockout procedures to help residents regain access to their rooms.
  • Create temporary access cards for residents who need them.
  • Check out administrative keys to groups with residence-hall room reservations.
  • Follow key-distribution procedures and complete the required documentation before issuing keys.
  • Maintain positive working relationships with Desk Assistants, Desk Coordinators, Resident Assistants, Community Directors, Housing & Residence Life staff, Facilities Management, and Program Associates.
  • Participate in Desk Assistant surveys used to schedule desk shifts.
  • Check phone and email messages daily and maintain ongoing communication with Residential Operations Coordinators, Desk Assistants, and the Housing & Residence Life office.
  • Attend scheduled shifts on time and follow communication protocols when requesting emergency shift coverage.
  • Follow communication protocols when communicating with on-call staff and emergency personnel.
  • Assist hall staff with emergencies and other unforeseen circumstances as requested.

American University is a private research university in Washington, DC. It provides undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs through its colleges and schools.

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