Assistant Director of Financial Aid

Location: Hickory, North Carolina. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

About the role

The successful candidate will demonstrate strong knowledge and understanding of federal, state and institutional financial aid policies and processes, initiative, creative problem-solving, strong analytical skills, meticulous attention to detail, positive energy and a sense of humor. The successful candidate must demonstrate the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, deadline-oriented work environment while managing multiple responsibilities concurrently.

Supervisory responsibilities: None.

Responsibilities

• Administer federal, state, private and institutional financial aid programs on a daily basis.
• Manage the processing of federal, state, private and institutional financial aid through PowerFAIDS and applicable federal and state systems.
• Manage the processing, certification and reconciliation of state financial aid through North Carolina grant portals.
• Counsel students, parents and legal guardians regarding the availability of and eligibility requirements for Title IV, state and institutional financial aid.
• Counsel service members, in coordination with the VA Benefits Coordinator, regarding the availability of and eligibility requirements for Title IV, state and institutional financial aid.
• Manage projects and ongoing activities assigned by the Director or Associate Director of Financial Aid.
• Assist with short- and long-range planning to support efficient office operations and workflow.
• Respond promptly to questions and concerns from internal and external constituents, with the expectation that responses will be provided within one business day.
• Foster a positive and professional environment by ensuring all interactions reflect a commitment to exceptional customer service.
• Provide operational oversight of assigned financial aid functions to ensure accurate, timely and compliant administration of financial aid programs.
• Maintain proficiency in standard enrollment procedures as they relate to financial aid eligibility.
• Maintain current knowledge of applicable federal and state financial aid regulations and institutional policies to ensure ongoing compliance and accurate administration of financial aid programs.
• Provide leadership, training and guidance to campus stakeholders regarding financial aid eligibility, awarding and financial literacy.
• Assist with the preparation and submission of federal and state reports and surveys, as well as departmental statistical reports and projections.
• Assist with the periodic review, development and revision of departmental policies and procedures.
• Demonstrate a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and the ability to prioritize responsibilities effectively.
• Serve on university and division committees as appropriate.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required.
• A minimum of three years of related experience.
• Knowledge of North Carolina state financial aid programs, including eligibility requirements, processing, certification, reconciliation and reporting, is preferred.

Skills

• Exceptional computer skills; PowerFAIDS experience preferred.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality.
• Demonstrated planning, organizational and time-management skills.
• Ability to think strategically, manage multiple priorities, and adapt to changing demands.
• Excellent team-building, customer service and leadership skills.

Behavioral expectations

• Maintain high integrity, confidentiality, and ethical standards.
• Maintain a healthy and safe environment.
• Maintain and contribute to a professional, respectful, courteous, diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment.
• Treat other individuals with dignity, respect, and kindness.
• Adhere to all university policies, procedures, standards, values, and comply with all federal, state, and local laws.

Position requirements in the role description outlined above indicate the minimum level of knowledge, skills, and/or abilities deemed necessary to perform the job competently. Role descriptions are an overview of the duties, responsibilities, and requirements of the position and are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list for the position. Employees may be required to perform other job-related assignments as requested and acquire new skills and responsibilities. Lenoir-Rhyne University reserves the right to modify, add, remove, or waive the responsibilities, duties, and skills required of the position.