I don't know that you will be able to find anything "quiet" near campus. I've lived for 2 years near the Gay St / Samford intersection and it is anything but quiet. Try to avoid living near any of the fraternity or sorority houses. If you are willing to drive or catch the bus, I would suggest looking into Alice Henderson Realty or Copper Beach. Otherwise, most of the apartments closer to downtown are loud and filled with 18 year olds. On the subject of schools, there are at least 3 elementary schools that I know of within 20 minutes of campus. Haven't heard anything about job stats, but there are definitely multiple places to apply.
Also, I'd like to extend a general hello. I'm entering the MA program in literature. We might see each other around.