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Graduate Resident Assistant (GRA) Position Description

Important GRA Dates

General Responsibilities and Duties

Administrative and Operational Responsibilities (25%)

Safety and Security/On-Call Responsibilities (50%)

While on duty, the GRA will carry a university-issued cell phone and remain within the assigned area to respond to the needs of the residents. A GRA must be able to be on scene and respond to a situation within ten minutes. Five GRAs serve on the McManus Center duty rotation and six GRAs serve on the Engelhart Hall and Garrett Place duty rotation. This number is subject to change if there are vacancies. GRAs may also be asked to assist with duty coverage at any of the graduate housing buildings (Engelhart, Garett, or McManus) as needed. 

 

Community Development Responsibilities (25%)

Qualifications

Physical Requirements

Mandatory Dates

Summer Term:

Academic Year:

*GRAs are required to be at all training dates for term of appointment.

GRAs are required to assist with all major check-in and check-out processes, including on evenings and weekends. GRA presence within the residential communities is critical for emergency response. GRAs should discuss plans to be away from their community for extended periods with the RD supervisor. GRAs must not make travel arrangements without consulting with the RD first. This includes university dates around holiday closures and break periods. 

Compensation

Each GRA will receive an apartment in their assigned community. A one-bedroom apartment will be provided, but another unit type may be assigned (without additional compensation) if a one-bedroom unit is not available. The apartment includes utilities, cable TV access, and wireless internet. A free laundry facility is provided in the building. $150 per month in compensation is also provided. GRAs are expected to live in their apartment throughout their term. 

GRAs requiring a two-bedroom or larger apartment to accommodate dependents will be provided with rent credit comparable to a one-bedroom apartment and are responsible for the difference in rent. Considerations for larger units are made based on the number of occupants and apartment availability. 

GRAs who leave the position may be required to vacate the assigned apartment and relocate to a different apartment community within 48 hours of when their termination letter or verbal resignation is received. 

Additional Information

Northwestern University is an equal opportunity, affirmative action educator, and employer. Northwestern University does not discriminate against any individual on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, parental status, marital status, age, disability, citizenship, veteran status, or other protected group status in matters of admissions, employment, housing, or services or in the educational programs or activities it operates.

Residential Services invites you to approach us early in the application process and contact AccessibleNU (accessiblenu@northwestern.edu; 847-467-5530) if you think you may require a housing accommodation. In addition, we welcome you to work with us and the Office of Civil Rights and Title IX Compliance (accommodations@northwestern.edu; 847-467-6165) if you think you may require a position-related accommodation.