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Residential Assistant Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Grafton

Overnight Residential Assistant

Winchester, VA

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

Direct Support Professional - Overnight Residential Assistant Help Children Grow, Learn, and Thrive At Grafton, we're guided by a shared purpose: helping children with complex needs reach their full ...

Mainspring Recovery

Residential Aide

Dumfries, VA · On-site

$19/hr

Ensure regular safety rounds and adherence to supervision intervals. * Assist in promoting life skills and discharge planning. * Perform all other duties as assigned. Residential Aide R.I.S.E.

Mainspring Recovery

Residential Aide

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$19/hr

Ensure regular safety rounds and adherence to supervision intervals. * Assist in promoting life ... Residential Aides may be scheduled for any shift, Sunday through Saturday, based on operational ...

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How much do residential assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for residential assistant in Virginia is $16.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.28 and $17.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a residential assistant?

Residential Assistants (RAs) are student leaders who help manage residence halls or dormitories in colleges and universities. They support and mentor students living on campus, enforce residence life policies, and organize community-building activities. RAs act as a resource for residents, provide guidance during conflicts, and help ensure a positive living environment. They often receive training in leadership, crisis management, and communication to effectively assist their peers.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a residential assistant?

To thrive as a Residential Assistant, you need strong organizational skills, problem-solving abilities, and a background in student services or related experience, often acquired through campus training programs. Familiarity with incident reporting systems, campus safety protocols, and communication platforms is typically required. Interpersonal skills, empathy, and conflict resolution abilities help RAs build community and support residents effectively. These skills are vital for fostering a safe, inclusive living environment and addressing resident needs promptly.

What challenges do residential assistants face and how are they addressed?

Residential Assistants (RAs) often encounter challenges such as mediating roommate conflicts, managing emergencies, and balancing their own academic responsibilities with their RA duties. Effective communication, strong organizational skills, and regular training sessions help RAs address these challenges. Additionally, RAs typically have access to a supervisor and campus resources to support them in resolving complex situations, ensuring they are not handling difficult issues alone.

What is the difference between Residential Assistant vs Resident Advisor?

AspectResidential AssistantResident Advisor
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some positions may require college courseworkHigh school diploma or equivalent; college coursework preferred
Work EnvironmentOn-campus housing, dormitories, student residencesOn-campus housing, dormitories, student residences
Employer & IndustryColleges, universities, student housing providersColleges, universities, student housing providers
Primary ResponsibilitiesAssist residents, enforce rules, organize activitiesSupport residents, promote community, enforce policies

Both Residential Assistants and Resident Advisors work in student housing environments, assisting residents and fostering community. The terms are often used interchangeably, but 'Resident Advisor' is more common in university settings, while 'Residential Assistant' may be used in broader housing contexts. Both roles require similar credentials and focus on student support and safety.

How to become a residential assistant?

To become a residential assistant, candidates typically need to be enrolled in a college or university, demonstrate strong communication and leadership skills, and apply through their institution's housing or student affairs office. Some positions require previous experience in student leadership or related roles, and applicants may need to complete an interview or training process before starting the position.

Is it hard to get a residential assistant position?

Securing a residential assistant position can be competitive, as it often requires relevant experience, good communication skills, and sometimes specific certifications. Applicants typically need to demonstrate responsibility, conflict resolution abilities, and a willingness to work flexible hours. The difficulty varies depending on the institution and the number of available positions.

What are the most commonly searched types of Residential jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Residential jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Residential Assistant jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Residential Assistant job openings:

Residential Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Residential Assistant job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,410 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

Behavioral Health Residential Assistant

Middle Peninsula - Northern Neck Community Services Board

Urbanna, VA • On-site

$16/hr

Other

Re-posted 12 days ago

Job description

Description
About Middle Peninsula Northern Neck Behavioral Health (MPNN BH)
At MPNN BH, our mission is "PROMOTING WELLBEING.... ONE INDIVIDUAL... ONE FAMILY... ONE COMMUNITY AT A TIME"
Our organization provides services designed to help members of our community achieve their individual goals. MPNN BH has over 60 distinct programs to aid and support all ages and many situations.
$16.00 hourly is the base salary
The position of Behavioral Health Residential Assistant is responsible for:
  • Direct care and monitoring of individuals in the transitional living facility. Employee will identify behaviors, situations or physical conditions that obstruct safety and security.
  • Delivers all services according to a recovery-based philosophy of care to create an environment of safety and security. Critical component of job is to possess strong interpersonal skills.
  • Must exercise tact and courtesy in contact with staff individuals, families, and service providers. Schedules include both day and night shifts.
  • Will be required to transport persons served in the MPNN BH vehicle.

Requirements
High School Diploma or equivalent, and 1 to 2 years related experience in a medical or psychological field, involving work with individuals diagnosed with severe mental illness or Co-Occurring disorder, preferably with an emphasis on the safety and security of individuals, or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the required knowledge, skilled and abilities.

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