Student Employee- Access & Retention Programs – Front Desk Receptionist

Sam Houston State University; Huntsville (TX); On-site; USD 7,800 - 9,000; Part time

Benefits offered by this job

College Work-Study eligible

Job summary

Sam Houston State University is seeking a Student Employee to staff the Front Desk for Access & Retention Programs (ARP). You will greet students and visitors, answer questions, and direct callers to the appropriate ARP staff or campus resources. The role supports ELITE, ASPIRE, Evolve, and Transfer & Commuter Student Programming, helping maintain a student-friendly lounge and assisting with events.

Evening hours from 5:00–7:00 p.m. are required, with an approximate 15 hours per week.

Qualifications

• Professionalism and strong customer-service skills.
• Dependability and punctuality in a front-desk setting.
• Welcoming attitude and effective interpersonal communication.
• Ability to interact professionally with students, staff, and visitors.
• Willingness to assist and learn about ARP programs.

Responsibilities

• Greet students, staff, and visitors at the front desk.
• Assist with general questions and direct to ARP programs or resources.
• Provide front-desk support for ELITE, ASPIRE, Evolve, and Transfer & Commuter Programs.
• Maintain a welcoming, organized lounge environment.
• Monitor lounge activities and assist with space and resources.
• Answer calls and support departmental correspondence.
• Support staff with copying, printing, and preparing materials.
• Assist with events, workshops, and program promotions.
• Distribute program information and maintain confidentiality.
• Complete basic data-entry and other duties as assigned.

Skills

Customer service

Punctuality

Interpersonal skills

Communication

Independence

Time management

Confidentiality

Multitasking

Problem-solving

Professionalism

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Requisition:

202600292ST

Title:

Student Employee- Access & Retention Programs – Front Desk Receptionist

Employee Class:

Student Employee

College Work Study Position:

Yes

Department:

Office of Student Experience & Retention

Division:

Division of Student Affairs

Hours per week:

15

Hiring Rate:

$10.00

Preferred Student Classification:

Sophomore or Junior

Nature & Purpose of Position:

The Access & Retention Programs (ARP) Front Desk Receptionist serves as a welcoming and professional first point of contact for students, staff, and visitors engaging with the department and the Transfer & Commuter Student Lounge. This student employee supports the daily operations of Access & Retention Programs and assists with services and activities connected to ELITE, ASPIRE, Evolve, and transfer and commuter student programming. The position is ideal for a dependable, personable student who enjoys helping others, can work independently, and is comfortable assisting students from a variety of backgrounds and academic levels.

Other Requirements for the Position:

Duties include, but are not limited to:

• Greet students, staff, and visitors and provide a welcoming front-desk experience.
• Assist students with general questions and direct them to the appropriate ARP program, staff member, campus office, or resources.
• Provide front-desk support for ELITE, ASPIRE, Evolve, and Transfer & Commuter Student Programming.
• Help maintain a welcoming, organized, and student-friendly environment in the Transfer & Commuter Student Lounge.
• Monitor lounge activities and assist students with general use of the space and available resources.
• Answer and route telephone calls and assist with basic departmental correspondence as appropriate.
• Assist professional and student staff with copying, printing, preparing materials, organizing supplies, and other general office needs.
• Support departmental programs, workshops, outreach activities, and special events, including event preparation and check-in.
• Assist with distributing program information and promotional materials.
• Maintain front-desk and common areas and report supply, equipment, or facility needs to professional staff.
• Maintain appropriate confidentiality when handling student information and departmental matters.
• Complete basic administrative and data-entry tasks as assigned.
• Perform other duties that support the daily operations and mission of Access & Retention Programs.

Applicants must be eligible for and awarded College Work Study (CWS) funding. This position is open only to students who meet College Work Study eligibility requirements.

Applicants must also be available to work evening hours from 5:00–7:00 p.m. as part of their regular work schedule. Students will work approximately 15 hours per week, with schedules developed around departmental needs and the student’s academic schedule. Consistent attendance during assigned shifts is essential.

Qualified candidates should demonstrate:

• Professionalism and strong customer-service skills
• Dependability and punctuality
• A positive, welcoming, and helpful attitude
• Strong verbal and interpersonal communication skills
• Ability to interact professionally with students, staff, faculty, and visitors
• Initiative and willingness to assist where needed
• Good organizational and time-management skills
• Basic problem-solving abilities
• Ability to follow directions while also working independently
• Ability to manage multiple responsibilities in a front-desk environment
• Respect for confidentiality and appropriate handling of student information
• Willingness to learn about ARP programs and university resources in order to appropriately assist and refer students

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous customer service, receptionist, office, or student leadership experience
• Familiarity with university programs, services, and campus resources
• Experience working with students or in a student-centered environment
• Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office and common office technology

About Access & Retention Programs

Access & Retention Programs supports students through intentional programming, engagement, and resources designed to strengthen their connection to the university and support their continued success. The department includes ELITE, ASPIRE, and the Evolve Transfer Hub, providing the Front Desk Receptionist an opportunity to interact with and support students across multiple stages of their university experience.

Open Date:

08/12/2026

Position Number:

9N9031

Contact Name & Title:

Marissa Aldana

Contact Phone:

9362942681

Contact Email:

[e-mail]

EEO Statement:

Sam Houston State University is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer and Smoke/Drug-Free Workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, ancestry, marital status, citizenship, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, or protected veteran status. The University takes seriously the initiative to ensure equal opportunity in the workforce and to comply with Title VII as interpreted by the U.S. Supreme Court. Sam Houston State University is an “at will” employer. Employees with a contract will have additional terms and conditions. Security-sensitive positions at SHSU require background checks in accordance with Education Code §51.215.

Annual Security and Fire Safety Report