The Desk Program supports campus operations through two positions, Desk Assistants (DAs) and Mail Processing Assistants (MPAs).
Desk Assistant (DA)
Desk Assistants (DAs) are the welcoming face of the University’s residence halls and union spaces. As one of the first people residents and guests interact with, DAs play a critical role in creating a sense of “home” for students living on campus and providing excellent customer service to all members of the campus community.
Desk Assistants are responsible for maintaining a safe, organized, and friendly environment by assisting with administrative tasks, security procedures, and resource management. DAs serve across City and East Campus at both residence hall desks and union welcome desks, supporting daily operations and ensuring an exceptional experience for students and guests.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide excellent customer service to residents, guests, and campus partners.
- Assist with resident lockouts and maintain key security protocols.
- Manage and organize lost and found items according to University policy.
- Report facility issues, incidents, or policy violations promptly.
See the full job description on Handshake during our spring hiring window.
Mail Processing Assistant (MPA)
Mail Processing Assistants (MPAs) work behind the scenes to ensure that every resident living on campus receives their packages and letter mail accurately and on time. With more than 5,500 students living in the residence halls, MPAs play a vital role in the on-campus experience and help keep one of the University’s most important support systems running smoothly at both City and East Campus residence halls.
This position is ideal for students who are dependable, organized, and enjoy independent work with a focus on accuracy. MPAs work closely with Desk Assistants, processing incoming mail and packages daily to support residents and campus operations.
Key Responsibilities:
- Sort, alphabetize, and accurately record resident mail and packages using electronic systems.
- Load and maintain package lockers, bins, and mail shelving areas.
- Communicate regularly with supervisors, Desk Assistants, and coworkers to ensure smooth mail operations.
See the full job description on Handshake during our spring hiring window.
Job Details
Starting wage: $15+/hr
Hiring process: Application (with resume) and interview
Need assistance reviewing your resume? Connect with a Career Coach in your college here or see tips for building a resume from Career Services here.
Be sure to include any customer service experience on your resume and talk about it in your interview!
Timeline
Interviews for the Desk program for the 2026-2027 Academic Year are held in the Spring 2026 semester. Training and onboarding will also occur in the Spring 2026 semester.
Generally, hiring only occurs one time per year. If positions become available at another time, the job will be posted on Handshake.
Position Notes
- Desk Assistants work on holidays, during breaks, weekdays, weeknights, overnights, and weekends. Ideal DA candidates are available to work a combination of different hours.
- Mail Processing Assistants work between 11am and 5pm each day including academic breaks.
- New Desk Program staff must complete an interview, accept an offer, complete a payroll appointment, and at least one paid training shift plus a new desk assistant training with a Student Services Manager.
- All staff are required to attend the Desk Program training in August before the start of classes (specific dates will be provided during the hiring process).
Apply For The Desk Program
The Desk Assistant and Mail Processing Assistant positions are now live on Handshake through January 9th! Search for these positions on Handshake and submit your application!
Questions?
Sharity Czolgos
Senior Student Services Manager
sczolgos2@unl.edu