Job Description
Job Location: Dallas Campus - Dallas, TX 75204
Position Type: Full Time, Salaried, Exempt
Salary Range: $48,080.00 - $48,960.00 Salary/year
Job Category: On CampusJob
Summary
The Office Manager, Student Life is a key administrative and operational leader within the Student Life division at Dallas Theological Seminary (DTS). This position is responsible for ensuring the efficient delivery of administrative services, budget oversight, and student-facing programs that support graduate students' academic, spiritual, and personal development. The Office Manager serves as the primary point of contact for the Student Life office, models hospitable service to all guests and students, and provides strategic coordination across the division’s initiatives, events, and compliance activities.
Reporting directly to the Dean of Students, this role also serves as Advisor for Student Activities and exercises considerable independent judgment in designing and implementing policies, managing complex projects, and supervising staff and volunteers.
Supervision Responsibilities (if applicable):
- Supervise and develop two Student Life administrative personnel, overseeing performance and process improvements.
- Direct the Student Life Guest Services Team to deliver excellent hospitality and responsiveness.
- Coordinate and train approximately ten volunteers supporting Luke’s Ministries (Luke’s Closet and Luke’s Pantry).
Administrative Operations & Office Management
- Provide comprehensive division-level administrative and clerical support to the Dean of Students and Student Life staff.
- Manage and maintain Student Life email accounts, online events calendar, and the student portal (students.dts.edu).
- Schedule and coordinate appointments and calendars for all Student Life staff.
- Draft, edit, and distribute email and social media communications to students, faculty, and staff for Student Life and cross-campus events.
- Maintain and update the Student Handbook, including student group policies and procedures.
- Oversee the DTS Job and Internship Board and “special skills” and “local services” resource lists.
- Administer Security Badge issuance and Vehicle Parking Pass registration and related processes.
Budget & Financial Oversight
- Manage all Student Life budgets and departmental credit cards with accuracy, accountability, and compliance.
- Identify and implement cost-saving efficiencies across division operations.
- Prepare budget reports and support financial planning in coordination with the Dean of Students.
Student Programs & Events
- Coordinate New Student Orientation across all DTS campuses.
- Serve as Advisor for Student Activities: oversee the Student Council election process and student group programming.
- Design and implement policies and procedures for recognized student groups; support onboarding of new groups and student leadership development.
- Coordinate twice-annual student meetings with the DTS Board of Directors.
- Coordinate and co-chair the Student Life DTS Graduation Subcommittee, utilizing project management tools (e.g., Asana) to improve planning timelines and accuracy.
Accreditation & Special Projects
- Serve as a member of the QEP Accreditation Committee; contribute to the design, documentation, and evidence preparation for accreditation submissions.
- Participate on the ATS Student Life Accreditation Task Team; assist with the Student Life section of the ATS self-study.
- Support and lead other strategic initiatives as assigned by the Dean of Students.
QualificationsRequired Skills/Abilities
- Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills (verbal and written); able to engage students, faculty, staff, and guests with warmth and professionalism.
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities, deadlines, and projects simultaneously.
- Demonstrated ability to exercise sound independent judgment and discretion, particularly in matters affecting students and institutional operations.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook); experience with project management tools (e.g., Asana) is a plus.
- Strong attention to detail, including accuracy in writing, spelling, and grammar.
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a team.
- Flexibility and positive attitude in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
- Commitment to the mission and values of Dallas Theological Seminary.
Education and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred (theological or ministry-related field a plus).
- Minimum of two (2) years of related administrative or office management experience required.
- Experience in a higher education, ministry, or nonprofit environment strongly preferred.
- Demonstrated experience managing budgets and financial processes.
- Experience supervising staff or volunteers preferred.
Physical Requirements
- Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
- Ability to lift up to 15 pounds occasionally.
- Occasional movement around campus for events, meetings, and program support.