Description

The Associate Director Financial Aid works collaboratively with the Director of Financial Aid and Scholarships and other staff members to administer all aspects of the financial aid process, which includes but not limited to the development, administration and interpretation of financial aid policies and procedures in accordance with established federal, state and institutional guidelines. Works independently and is expected to exercise discretion and independent judgment in carrying out the responsibilities, including but not limited to, developing financial aid strategies for all university funds.  Supports Enrollment Management goals to recruit and retain students. Provides leadership and direction for the policies, procedures and operations involved with the awarding and delivery of financial aid and scholarship programs.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Provides leadership and direction for the policies, procedures and operations involved with the awarding and delivery of financial aid and scholarship programs. 

Will be responsible for the overall compliance and training within the financial aid operation.  This includes auditing and corrective actions for the quality control of potential over-award, grade level progression, verification, c-code, and professional judgment files. 

Will be responsible for assisting with the processing of Return-to-Title IV (R2T4) calculations, and ensure fund adjustments, post-withdrawal disbursements, and exit counseling notifications are all processed within Department of Education timelines. 

This position will also be responsible for the processing of students Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP), as well as the SAP Appeal process. 

Monitor and correct all past-due disbursements, to include, Title IV and Private Loan disbursements.

Monitor departmental customer service to families and students.  Counsel incoming and current students on Financial aid packages, and address any escalated concerns or complaints.

Maintain and process financial aid within federal, state, and institutional guidelines. 

Represent financial aid at various open house events for current and incoming students.

Collaborate with External Relations on yearly Donor Recognition Reception events.

Provides athletic contracts for student athletes.

Completes other duties as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS:

Minimum qualifications:

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.

3-5 years of financial aid experience

Preferred qualifications:

Strong functional knowledge of FAMS system (Banner/Ellucian preferred).

Proficiency with PC, Microsoft Office tools, email and the Internet with the ability to learn a variety of new technology systems; COGNOS reporting; familiarity with Slate and Banner preferred.

Alternately, the successful candidate may possess any equivalent combination of experience and training, which provides the knowledge, skills and abilities required to perform the essential job functions. This includes, but is not limited to, the following:

Highly developed interpersonal, analytic, problem-solving, organizational and communication skills, including the ability to listen thoughtfully and respectfully to a diverse population of constituents and stakeholders

Strong communication skills, both oral and written providing the ability to effectively communicate with multiple internal and external constituents

Knowledge and understanding of federal, states and agency-accrediting rules and regulations as they pertain to higher education admission. Very strong knowledge of federal and state regulations concerning financial aid, as well as NCAA regulations

Knowledge of fund driver for endowed administration

A broad understanding of higher education processes and procedures, including shared governance, strategic planning, resource allocation and budget management

Ensures compliance with Federal and State laws pertaining to financial aid, affirmative action and FERPA

Membership and active engagement in appropriate national student service organizations, such as NASFA and PASFA

Sensitivity to the need of each individual to be treated with dignity and respect as it relates to diversity in general and the Mission of the University specifically

Proactive, strategic, analytical and deadline-oriented in a complex organization

Ability and willingness to work outside of regular business hours and some weekends during peak enrollment periods

Ability to prepare and maintain confidential data independently in accordance with established policies and procedures and exercise consistent discretion

Considerable knowledge of the laws, regulations and policies governing the operations of the University

Ability to create and maintain complex records and files

Willingness and ability to work evenings and weekends as needed during peak enrollment periods

Sensitivity to the needs of each individual to be treated with dignity and respect as related to diversity in general and the Mission of the University specifically; and the ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with the University Community.

Commitment to the University’s values of diversity, equity and inclusion, and recognition of the importance of treating each individual with dignity and respect consistent with the University’s Mission.  Demonstrated experience with, and understanding of, the broad diversity of the University community (students, faculty, staff and others).

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with the University Community.

Ability and willingness to contribute actively to the mission of the University and to respect the Spiritan Catholic identity of Duquesne University.  The mission is implemented through a commitment to academic excellence, a spirit of service, moral and spiritual values, sensitivity to world concerns, and an ecumenical campus community.