Assistant Director of Financial Aid

Job Summary

The Assistant Director of Financial Aid plays a crucial role in providing support and leadership to the Financial Aid office. This position is responsible for assisting in the development, implementation, and management of financial aid programs, ensuring students receive the resources needed to attend our private Baptist institution. The Assistant Director will collaborate with various departments and provide exceptional service to students and their families while adhering to university policies and federal/state regulations.

Duties and Responsibilities

This job description does not state or imply that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. Duties and responsibilities listed are essential job functions and exclude functions which are incidental to the performance of fundamental job duties.

• Financial Aid Administration:
  • Assist in the development, implementation, and review of financial aid policies and procedures that align with the mission of the university.
  • Oversee the packaging of financial aid for students, including federal, state, institutional, and private aid programs.
  • Ensure accurate processing and disbursement of financial aid awards in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
• Student and Family Support:
  • Serve as a point of contact for students and families, answering inquiries and providing guidance on financial aid programs, application processes, and eligibility requirements.
  • Offer counseling to students regarding loan options, scholarships, grants, work-study opportunities, and other available resources.
  • Provide one-on-one financial aid advising to students and their families, helping them understand their aid package, loan terms, and repayment options.
• Compliance and Reporting:
  • Assist in maintaining compliance with federal, state, and institutional financial aid regulations and policies, ensuring accurate reporting and documentation.
  • Work with the Director to prepare reports for institutional leadership, accrediting agencies, and government entities as required by law.
  • Stay current with financial aid regulations and best practices, ensuring the universitys policies are up-to-date and fully compliant.
• Financial Aid Programming and Initiatives:
  • Contribute to the development of financial literacy programming for students, helping them manage their finances and navigate the cost of education.
  • Participate in outreach efforts to attract prospective students, including attending recruitment events, delivering presentations, and providing financial aid information to prospective families.
  • Support and contribute to the creation of merit-based scholarships, need-based grants, and other financial assistance programs in line with the university's mission and values.
• Technology and Data Management:
  • Assist in the management and use of financial aid software systems, ensuring accuracy and integrity of student data.
  • Work with IT and other departments to enhance system functionality and improve operational efficiency in the processing of financial aid applications and awards.
  • Monitor and analyze financial aid data to assess trends and recommend improvements for the offices operations.
• Team Leadership and Collaboration:
  • Collaborate with other campus departments (e.g., Admissions, Student Accounts, and Registrar) to ensure smooth communication and coordination regarding student financial aid.
  • Provide leadership in the absence of the Director of Financial Aid, including overseeing office operations and responding to escalated student concerns.
  • Participate in professional development opportunities, both on and off-campus, to remain current in the field of financial aid and higher education.
• Other Duties as Assigned:
  • Take on additional responsibilities and projects as directed by the Director of Financial Aid or senior university leadership to support the universitys overall mission and objectives.

Required Qualifications

• Education:
  • Bachelor's degree required.
• Experience:
  • 3-5 years of experience in financial aid administration, with a strong understanding of federal, state, and institutional financial aid regulations.
• Skills and Abilities:
  • Knowledge of financial aid regulations, award packaging, and federal and state student loan programs.
  • Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to explain complex financial aid topics.
  • Ability to handle confidential and sensitive information with professionalism and discretion.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Proficiency in financial aid software and Microsoft Office Suite.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work collaboratively with students, families, and university staff.

Preferred Qualifications

• Education:
  • Masters degree in Higher Education, Business Administration, or related field.
• Experience:
  • Supervisory experience.

Physical Demands

• Must possess mobility to work in a standard office setting and to use standard office equipment (i.e. computer, copier, scanner, etc.)
• Must have vision to read printed materials and computer screen.
• Must have ability to sit for extended periods of time.
• Must have strength and agility to move files, paper boxes, and minor office equipment.
• Must have ability to communicate in person and over the telephone.