Director of Financial Aid

Provides leadership, accountability, and daily management of the Financial Aid Office to administer federal, state, and institutional financial aid funding. Maintains regulatory compliance and protects the integrity of the college’s financial aid services while delivering quality customer service to students and partners.

Responsibilities

• Oversee full-service financial aid processing, including document collection, budgeting, awarding, FAFSA verification, and loan certification for the College.
• Maintain current knowledge of federal and institutional policies and procedures regulating student aid; ensure compliance with all regulations.
• Create, maintain, and comply with all timelines required by the institution and regulatory bodies.
• Manage and evaluate processes to allow for efficient and accurate reporting and processing of financial aid.
• Monitor Satisfactory Academic Progress of all students.
• Provide oversight and preparation for the annual Single (A-133) audit.
• Adopt a proactive approach to identifying problems, creating innovative solutions, managing projects, leading teams, and implementing efficiencies using technology.
• Facilitate application of military and veteran affairs benefits to student financial aid awards.
• Coordinate financial aid functions with appropriate offices and as part of integrated student service efforts; work closely with the Business Office.
• Hire, train, and supervise Financial Aid staff in customer service, student outreach, student financial planning, and financial aid compliance.
• Demonstrate knowledge of principles and processes for delivering excellent customer service, including student needs assessment, establishing quality standards, and evaluating service metrics.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree (required); graduate degree (preferred).
• 3–5 years of experience in higher education financial aid.
• Strong working knowledge of federal regulations and financial aid office operations.
• Knowledge of higher education processes, best practices, supervisory/personnel practices, and strong communication and technology skills.
• Combination of post-secondary education and experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.

Working Conditions

• Periods of high stress and fluctuating workloads may occur.
• Up to 10% travel, including long-distance or air travel as needed.
• General office environment; may be exposed to high noise levels and bright lights.
• May experience constant interruptions and prolonged periods of working alone.
• Required to drive to off-site locations, occasionally in adverse weather conditions.

Physical Requirements

• Sitting 34–66% of the time.
• Manual dexterity (eye/hand coordination).
• Ability to hear alarms, telephone, and tape recorder.
• Reach above shoulder level.
• Repetitive arm/hand movements.

Skills

• Working knowledge of higher education regulations.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to lead and communicate effectively with administrators, faculty, staff, and students regarding financial aid operations.

Benefits

• Competitive pay, incentives, and referral bonuses.
• 403(b) retirement plan with employer contributions (when eligible).
• Medical, dental, vision, and prescription coverage; HSA/FSA options; life insurance; mental health resources and discounts.
• Paid time off, parental leave, FMLA leave, short- and long-term disability, and backup care for children and elders.
• Tuition assistance, professional development, and continuing education support.

Benefits may vary based on market and employment status.