What are the responsibilities and job description for the Student Life Specialist (Temporary) position at Northeastern University?
About The Opportunity
About Accelerate Pre-College Programs
Northeastern University’s Accelerate Pre-College Programs offer talented high school students immersive two-week summer residential experiences on Northeastern’s global campuses in Boston, Oakland, New York, and London. Through rigorous academics, experiential learning, and dynamic social programming, Accelerate Pre-College Programs give participants a genuine taste of undergraduate life at Northeastern while building skills that give them an edge in their academic journey and creating connections with other students from all over the world.
Position Summary
We're seeking Student Life Specialists to support our summer residential programs in Boston, MA and help create an exceptional experience for pre-college students. In this hands-on role, you'll work collaboratively with Student Life Managers and fellow team members to execute daily student life programming, support participant engagement, and contribute to a safe, vibrant living and learning community. This is an exciting opportunity for someone passionate about student development and eager to gain experience in residential programming. To effectively attend to student needs, Student Life Specialists will live in a residence hall. Housing is provided July 6 – August 8.
Key Responsibilities
Program Support & Execution
This is a temporary position from June 29 – August 8, 2026.
Temporary
Additional Information
Northeastern University considers factors such as candidate work experience, education and skills when extending an offer.
Northeastern has a comprehensive benefits package for benefit eligible employees. This includes medical, vision, dental, paid time off, tuition assistance, wellness & life, retirement- as well as commuting & transportation. Visit https://hr.northeastern.edu/benefits/ for more information.
All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
This job is for a current or anticipated job vacancy.
Pay Rate
21/hr
About Accelerate Pre-College Programs
Northeastern University’s Accelerate Pre-College Programs offer talented high school students immersive two-week summer residential experiences on Northeastern’s global campuses in Boston, Oakland, New York, and London. Through rigorous academics, experiential learning, and dynamic social programming, Accelerate Pre-College Programs give participants a genuine taste of undergraduate life at Northeastern while building skills that give them an edge in their academic journey and creating connections with other students from all over the world.
Position Summary
We're seeking Student Life Specialists to support our summer residential programs in Boston, MA and help create an exceptional experience for pre-college students. In this hands-on role, you'll work collaboratively with Student Life Managers and fellow team members to execute daily student life programming, support participant engagement, and contribute to a safe, vibrant living and learning community. This is an exciting opportunity for someone passionate about student development and eager to gain experience in residential programming. To effectively attend to student needs, Student Life Specialists will live in a residence hall. Housing is provided July 6 – August 8.
Key Responsibilities
Program Support & Execution
- Assist with planning, coordinating, and executing daily student life programming and special events
- Support activities and social programming for pre-college students in Boston under the collaborative direction of the Student Life Managers and Associate Director
- Help prepare and maintain program spaces, equipment, and resources
- Attend all required events, trainings, and weekly meetings with Accelerate staff
- Build positive relationships with participants and create an inclusive community
- Provide responsive, professional support to students and families as needed
- Address student conduct matters with fairness and discretion, escalating issues appropriately
- Serve as a visible, approachable presence throughout the residential experience
- Deliver exceptional customer service aligned with Northeastern's standards
- Maintain a safe residential environment and support enforcement of program policies
- Respond to emergencies and incidents following established protocols
- Assist with documentation and communication regarding incidents when needed
- Support health and wellness initiatives for participants
- Work closely with Student Life Managers and Student Life Ambassadors to ensure seamless operations
- Collaborate with campus partners to deliver engaging activities, workshops, and social experiences
- Contribute to a collaborative, student-centered team culture
- Support staff schedules and coordinate responsibilities as assigned
This is a temporary position from June 29 – August 8, 2026.
- Week of June 29 (Remote): Virtual Onboarding (10–20 hours, part-time)
- July 6 – 10: In-person training and program set-up on the Boston campus
- July 12 – 24: Support student life programs and pastoral care of participants for Boston's Pre-College Program, Session 1
- July 26 – August 7: Support student life programs and pastoral care of participants for Boston's Pre-College Program, Session 2
- August 8: Move-out of Boston complimentary housing
- Currently enrolled in or recent graduate of a bachelor's degree program
- Previous experience working in a leadership role within a group setting (student organizations, residence life, summer camps, youth programs, or similar)
- Experience supporting events or programs
- Excellent organizational skills with attention to detail
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills (verbal and written)
- Ability to work well both independently and collaboratively
- Student-centered approach with a strong sense of responsibility for student success and wellbeing
- Current certification or openness to be trained in First Aid & CPR as well as Mental Health First Aid
- Full availability from July 6 – August 7, 2026 is required
- Ability to work irregular hours on weekdays and weekends
- Experience counseling students and managing mental health crises
- Experience with pre-college or high school-aged populations
- Background in residence life, student affairs, or youth development programs
- Demonstrated experience with crisis management
- Knowledge of or interest in student development theory and restorative practices
- Familiarity with Northeastern University
Temporary
Additional Information
Northeastern University considers factors such as candidate work experience, education and skills when extending an offer.
Northeastern has a comprehensive benefits package for benefit eligible employees. This includes medical, vision, dental, paid time off, tuition assistance, wellness & life, retirement- as well as commuting & transportation. Visit https://hr.northeastern.edu/benefits/ for more information.
All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply and will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
This job is for a current or anticipated job vacancy.
Pay Rate
21/hr