SMASH
2026 SMASH Academy - Residential Director (Berkeley)
SMASH, Berkeley, California, United States, 94709
2026 SMASH Academy - Residential Director (Berkeley)
Join to apply for the 2026 SMASH Academy - Residential Director (Berkeley) role at SMASH.
About SMASH At SMASH, we aim to build a strong STEM workforce through academic learning and experiential engagement for high school and college students. We empower dedicated students in STEM fields through intensive education, rigorous coursework, and access to resources, aiming to cultivate success in college and careers. Our vision is to create a STEM ecosystem where every student can thrive in the global economy. By providing opportunities, we seek to enrich our communities and workplaces with well‑prepared, competitive leaders.
Position Description The SMASH Residential Team is composed of the Residential Director (RD) and Residential Advisors (RAs). The RD manages the RAs. The RD requires a part‑time commitment prior to SMASH Academy and a full‑time commitment during the summer program.
Prior to SMASH Academy launching, in collaboration with the Program Director (PD), the RD is responsible for pre‑launch essential duties including recruiting, hiring, onboarding a residential team, planning residential team training, attending weekly meetings and supporting their respective Site Management Team (SMT).
Upon launch of SMASH Academy, this position becomes a full‑time position with the RD being the primary director and supervisor of the Residential Team and Program.
Key Responsibilities Residential Team Management
Lead the Residential Team of RAs
The RA team is responsible for the supervision of ~100 high school students (minors) in residence at all times (number is site dependent)
Serve as a role model for responsible behavior and personal integrity
Head the SMASH residential program, including directing and scheduling the work of RAs
Manage the performance of RAs (number is site dependent), including coaching and performance evaluation
Lead the team on the organization, planning, and delivery of programming and workshops
Oversee the Residential team shift schedule and requests for time off or shift swaps
Coordinate and ensure completion of team deliverables
Conduct workshop observations
Complete RA performance evaluations during the last week of SMASH Academy program
Develop a strong sense of community and teamwork among the residential team to ensure strong scholar support
Continuously develop personal leadership and teamwork skills to ensure the whole team functions at a high‑performing level
Adhere to COVID‑19 safety precaution protocols put in place
Residential Programming + Facilitation
Deliver site‑specific RA Training in collaboration with SMASH Curriculum and Training team
Guide the residential team in preparing and decorating the dorms before scholar move‑in
Prepare and facilitate SMASH Residential Team Meetings
Plan (in coordination with SMT) residential programming and signature events, including but not limited to:
Town Hall Meeting
Community Meetings
Recognition and Exhibition Event
Talent Show
Family Event
All programming will depend on COVID‑19 safety protocols*
Ensure the residential team thoroughly organizes and/or supports recurring events including but not limited to:
Fun Friday activities
Weekend field trips
Speaker series
Networking nights
Programming/activities during unscheduled windows
SMASH Site Leadership
Enforce SMASH policies and procedures and ensure all staff are aligned on expectations
Build community with and amongst scholars and staff
Facilitate communication between the residential and academic components of SMASH
Communicate and meet with families as needed with guidance from the PD
Attend Site Management Team Meetings, SMASH Community Meetings, SMASH Residential Director Workspace Meetings
Facilitate check‑ins with the entire residential team
Communicate and uphold norms and program rules of conduct to ensure student safety, open and honest communication, and responsible student behavior
Build and maintain positive relationships with all SMASH and university personnel; positively represent the SMASH organization and program
Act as an academic and leadership role model, while maintaining physical and social boundaries with scholars (applies to social media)
Scholar Support + Safety
Serve as a mandated reporter and additionally as point person for any residential incident reporting
Coordinate and maintain logistical aspects of dorm life including maintaining relationships with university staff
Implement SMASH Scholar support practices and adapt with PD based on site‑specific needs
Uphold SMASH policies and core values while using restorative practice to hold scholars accountable whenever applicable
Identify scholars who need additional support and lead the residential team in developing and delivering support plans (per the direction of the Program Director)
Reside in residence halls among scholars; sleep on site for a minimum of 6 nights per week, and co‑lead on‑call staff in emergencies
Address scholar issues through a Restorative Practices approach
Debrief & Wrap Up
Attend Staff Closeout
Attend site management Staff Closeout
Complete and submit RA performance evaluations
Ensure completion of RD deliverables (e.g., final survey, share RA evaluations with SMASH, etc.)
Required Attributes
Collaboration: Exceptional listening, communication, and presentation skills; excellent time management and organizational skills; timeliness and dependability; courageously candid when facing difficult conversations
Relationship Building: Welcome and embrace individual differences of everyone in the room; humility; patience when navigating situations; ability to listen to multiple perspectives; restorative approach to relationship building and conflict resolution
Problem Solving: Remain curious, innovative, iterative, and quickly pivot as needed; keep activities on track; think creatively, and act swiftly in the face of unanticipated events; make data‑based decisions
Resilience: Approach situations with a growth mindset, adapt, and reflect to ensure desired outcome(s) are met
What You Bring
Bachelor's degree in Education, Psychology, Social Work, or a related field
1–3 years supervisory experience of a 5+ person team (residential settings preferred)
1–3 years professional experience in youth academic and/or recreational programs
1–3 years professional experience in youth supervision (middle and high school preferred)
Direct experience working with students of color and/or low‑income youth
Excellent written, verbal, and organizational skills are required
Strong attention to detail, prompt responsiveness to communications and delivery of deliverables
Understanding and sensitivity to the barriers that students of color face with accessing higher education
Ability to work efficiently both independently and collaboratively, and to give and receive feedback
Self‑starter with a solution‑focused approach to challenges
Ability to work some nights and weekends before SMASH Academy begins, as required for some program events
Access to a vehicle during SMASH Academy preferred
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google products
Spanish fluency preferred (not required)
CPR/First Aid certification preferred
Position requires lifting up to 15 pounds
Pass criminal background check and/or LiveScan
Application Information Apply for this position below and ensure you can make the training and program dates (see table in above section of Job Description). If applying to multiple sites, please rank your site preference in the application.
The application includes a place to upload your resume and cover letter and to provide written responses to specific prompts. This position will close when filled.
If you have been selected for this position by your Program Director (PD), an application is required (you do not need to submit a cover letter) and your PD will send you the link to apply. Please also submit the recommitment form provided by your PD, and SMASH will send you your updated offer letter.
Compensation The total compensation for this position is estimated to be $9,536 - $9,836 (a bonus for returning staff is included). Should the employee miss any hours or days of work, the daily and therefore total compensation will be adjusted accordingly. If your assignment ends earlier than we anticipate for any reason, your compensation may also be reduced accordingly. Please note, pay will be variable per pay period based on part‑time and full‑time phases of the program. These policies are subject to variation based on specific circumstances.
Statement Of Non-Discrimination In keeping with our beliefs and goals, no employee or applicant will face discrimination/harassment based on race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, age, gender, marital/domestic partner status, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status, or veteran status. Above and beyond discrimination/harassment based on “protected categories,” SMASH also strives to prevent other subtler forms of inappropriate behavior (i.e., stereotyping) from ever gaining a foothold in our office. Whether blatant or hidden, barriers to success have no place at SMASH.
We value a diverse workforce: people of color are strongly encouraged to apply.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
About SMASH At SMASH, we aim to build a strong STEM workforce through academic learning and experiential engagement for high school and college students. We empower dedicated students in STEM fields through intensive education, rigorous coursework, and access to resources, aiming to cultivate success in college and careers. Our vision is to create a STEM ecosystem where every student can thrive in the global economy. By providing opportunities, we seek to enrich our communities and workplaces with well‑prepared, competitive leaders.
Position Description The SMASH Residential Team is composed of the Residential Director (RD) and Residential Advisors (RAs). The RD manages the RAs. The RD requires a part‑time commitment prior to SMASH Academy and a full‑time commitment during the summer program.
Prior to SMASH Academy launching, in collaboration with the Program Director (PD), the RD is responsible for pre‑launch essential duties including recruiting, hiring, onboarding a residential team, planning residential team training, attending weekly meetings and supporting their respective Site Management Team (SMT).
Upon launch of SMASH Academy, this position becomes a full‑time position with the RD being the primary director and supervisor of the Residential Team and Program.
Key Responsibilities Residential Team Management
Lead the Residential Team of RAs
The RA team is responsible for the supervision of ~100 high school students (minors) in residence at all times (number is site dependent)
Serve as a role model for responsible behavior and personal integrity
Head the SMASH residential program, including directing and scheduling the work of RAs
Manage the performance of RAs (number is site dependent), including coaching and performance evaluation
Lead the team on the organization, planning, and delivery of programming and workshops
Oversee the Residential team shift schedule and requests for time off or shift swaps
Coordinate and ensure completion of team deliverables
Conduct workshop observations
Complete RA performance evaluations during the last week of SMASH Academy program
Develop a strong sense of community and teamwork among the residential team to ensure strong scholar support
Continuously develop personal leadership and teamwork skills to ensure the whole team functions at a high‑performing level
Adhere to COVID‑19 safety precaution protocols put in place
Residential Programming + Facilitation
Deliver site‑specific RA Training in collaboration with SMASH Curriculum and Training team
Guide the residential team in preparing and decorating the dorms before scholar move‑in
Prepare and facilitate SMASH Residential Team Meetings
Plan (in coordination with SMT) residential programming and signature events, including but not limited to:
Town Hall Meeting
Community Meetings
Recognition and Exhibition Event
Talent Show
Family Event
All programming will depend on COVID‑19 safety protocols*
Ensure the residential team thoroughly organizes and/or supports recurring events including but not limited to:
Fun Friday activities
Weekend field trips
Speaker series
Networking nights
Programming/activities during unscheduled windows
SMASH Site Leadership
Enforce SMASH policies and procedures and ensure all staff are aligned on expectations
Build community with and amongst scholars and staff
Facilitate communication between the residential and academic components of SMASH
Communicate and meet with families as needed with guidance from the PD
Attend Site Management Team Meetings, SMASH Community Meetings, SMASH Residential Director Workspace Meetings
Facilitate check‑ins with the entire residential team
Communicate and uphold norms and program rules of conduct to ensure student safety, open and honest communication, and responsible student behavior
Build and maintain positive relationships with all SMASH and university personnel; positively represent the SMASH organization and program
Act as an academic and leadership role model, while maintaining physical and social boundaries with scholars (applies to social media)
Scholar Support + Safety
Serve as a mandated reporter and additionally as point person for any residential incident reporting
Coordinate and maintain logistical aspects of dorm life including maintaining relationships with university staff
Implement SMASH Scholar support practices and adapt with PD based on site‑specific needs
Uphold SMASH policies and core values while using restorative practice to hold scholars accountable whenever applicable
Identify scholars who need additional support and lead the residential team in developing and delivering support plans (per the direction of the Program Director)
Reside in residence halls among scholars; sleep on site for a minimum of 6 nights per week, and co‑lead on‑call staff in emergencies
Address scholar issues through a Restorative Practices approach
Debrief & Wrap Up
Attend Staff Closeout
Attend site management Staff Closeout
Complete and submit RA performance evaluations
Ensure completion of RD deliverables (e.g., final survey, share RA evaluations with SMASH, etc.)
Required Attributes
Collaboration: Exceptional listening, communication, and presentation skills; excellent time management and organizational skills; timeliness and dependability; courageously candid when facing difficult conversations
Relationship Building: Welcome and embrace individual differences of everyone in the room; humility; patience when navigating situations; ability to listen to multiple perspectives; restorative approach to relationship building and conflict resolution
Problem Solving: Remain curious, innovative, iterative, and quickly pivot as needed; keep activities on track; think creatively, and act swiftly in the face of unanticipated events; make data‑based decisions
Resilience: Approach situations with a growth mindset, adapt, and reflect to ensure desired outcome(s) are met
What You Bring
Bachelor's degree in Education, Psychology, Social Work, or a related field
1–3 years supervisory experience of a 5+ person team (residential settings preferred)
1–3 years professional experience in youth academic and/or recreational programs
1–3 years professional experience in youth supervision (middle and high school preferred)
Direct experience working with students of color and/or low‑income youth
Excellent written, verbal, and organizational skills are required
Strong attention to detail, prompt responsiveness to communications and delivery of deliverables
Understanding and sensitivity to the barriers that students of color face with accessing higher education
Ability to work efficiently both independently and collaboratively, and to give and receive feedback
Self‑starter with a solution‑focused approach to challenges
Ability to work some nights and weekends before SMASH Academy begins, as required for some program events
Access to a vehicle during SMASH Academy preferred
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google products
Spanish fluency preferred (not required)
CPR/First Aid certification preferred
Position requires lifting up to 15 pounds
Pass criminal background check and/or LiveScan
Application Information Apply for this position below and ensure you can make the training and program dates (see table in above section of Job Description). If applying to multiple sites, please rank your site preference in the application.
The application includes a place to upload your resume and cover letter and to provide written responses to specific prompts. This position will close when filled.
If you have been selected for this position by your Program Director (PD), an application is required (you do not need to submit a cover letter) and your PD will send you the link to apply. Please also submit the recommitment form provided by your PD, and SMASH will send you your updated offer letter.
Compensation The total compensation for this position is estimated to be $9,536 - $9,836 (a bonus for returning staff is included). Should the employee miss any hours or days of work, the daily and therefore total compensation will be adjusted accordingly. If your assignment ends earlier than we anticipate for any reason, your compensation may also be reduced accordingly. Please note, pay will be variable per pay period based on part‑time and full‑time phases of the program. These policies are subject to variation based on specific circumstances.
Statement Of Non-Discrimination In keeping with our beliefs and goals, no employee or applicant will face discrimination/harassment based on race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, age, gender, marital/domestic partner status, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status, or veteran status. Above and beyond discrimination/harassment based on “protected categories,” SMASH also strives to prevent other subtler forms of inappropriate behavior (i.e., stereotyping) from ever gaining a foothold in our office. Whether blatant or hidden, barriers to success have no place at SMASH.
We value a diverse workforce: people of color are strongly encouraged to apply.
#J-18808-Ljbffr