Asst. Director, Financial Assistance

Responsibilities

• Oversee, coordinate, and ensure compliance in awarding financial aid for all graduate programs and law school programs.
• Maintain high levels of performance, achieve goals, and ensure quality results.
• Collaborate directly with the Associate Director, and act as their deputy in ensuring compliance with the Federal, State, and Institutional Policies.
• Review and analyze awarding report.
• Process student financial aid applications, including federal grants, loans, and work-study programs.
• Assess student eligibility for various financial aid programs, ensuring adherence to federal, state, and institutional criteria.
• Conduct thorough verification of student eligibility by reviewing required documentation to confirm the accuracy and completeness of financial information.
• Identify and resolve discrepancies in financial information and documentation.
• Utilize all federal databases for secondary verification, when required.
• Determine and package financial aid awards based on student eligibility, financial need, and available funding.
• Process all submitted student requests for additional or adjustment to loan package, as assigned.
• Ensure federal aid is awarded accurately and in conjunction with departmental awards.
• Certify the accuracy of any external scholarships for awarding purposes.
• Meet with students in person at Canes Central when necessary to address financial aid concerns and questions.
• Advise potential and current students on aid eligibility and processes through in-person conversations, email, and telephone.
• Disseminate information regarding aid eligibility.
• Respond promptly to inquiries from students, parents, and stakeholders regarding financial aid eligibility, disbursement, and reconciliation, when applicable.
• Address and resolve issues related to financial aid processes, ensuring a positive and supportive experience for all students and families.
• Serve as a liaison with assigned Colleges and Schools and any other related University offices or departments to ensure cohesive and compliant financial aid operations.

Professional Development

• Complete NASFAA Credentials to ensure knowledge of the most current federal policies and best practices.
• Participate in professional training and continuing education programs to foster personal and professional growth and development.

Other Duties

• Perform other duties as assigned to support the mission and goals of the Office of Student Financial Assistance and Employment.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in finance, business administration, higher education, or a related field is required. Master’s degree in a related field is preferred.
• Experience: Minimum of 3 years of experience in financial aid administration or a related area, with a focus on graduate and professional programs. In-depth knowledge of federal financial aid regulations and guidelines. Experience in managing and supervising staff, with a proven ability to lead and develop a team.
• Technical Proficiency: Proficiency in financial aid management systems (e.g., PowerFAIDs, Peoplesoft) and office software (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite). Experience with federal student aid programs and systems (e.g., COD, NSLDS) is preferred.
• Professional Development: Commitment to ongoing professional development and staying current with changes in financial aid regulations and best practices. Certification in financial aid administration (e.g., NASFAA credentials) is an asset.