Job Description

Campus/College Information:
Founded in 1856, University of Maryland, College Park is the state’s flagship institution. Our 1,250-acre College Park campus is just minutes away from Washington, D.C., and the nexus of the nation’s legislative, executive, and judicial centers of power. This unique proximity to business and technology leaders, federal departments and agencies, and a myriad of research entities, embassies, think tanks, cultural centers, and non-profit organizations is simply unparalleled. Synergistic opportunities for our faculty and students abound and are virtually limitless in the nation’s capital and surrounding areas. The University is committed to attracting and retaining outstanding and diverse faculty and staff that will enhance our stature of preeminence in our three missions of teaching, scholarship, and full engagement in our community, the state of Maryland, and in the world.
Background Checks
Offers of employment are contingent on completion of a background check. Information reported by the background check will not automatically disqualify someone from employment. Prior to any adverse decision, finalists have an opportunity to provide information to the University regarding the background check.

The University reserves the right to rescind offers of employment or otherwise decline or terminate employment if the information reported by the background check is deemed incompatible with the position, regardless of when the background check is completed.

Offers are contingent on providing proof of employment eligibility in the United States no more than 3 days after the initial start date. If this proof is not provided within this timeframe, the offer may be rescinded or employment terminated.
Position Summary/Purpose of Position:
The Sr. Assistant Director of Financial Aid Operations will support the Associate Director in the daily management and operations of the Financial Aid Office. This individual will focus on ensuring compliance of federal, state, and institutional financial aid policies, as well as leading efforts to improve operational efficiency through system optimization, staff training, and process innovation. The Sr. Assistant Director will also assist in managing the administration and distribution of financial aid funds while ensuring timely and accurate services to students and their families.

This position manages the staff and daily functions of the operations unit and is responsible for the Direct Loan and private loan programs, Pell Grant, Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) processing verification, performs Return of Title IV and oversees the Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) process. These programs require precise policies, procedures and federal aid regulation knowledge. Supervises the office imaging system and record management.

Key Responsibilities:
Oversee the day-to-day financial aid operations, including managing loan disbursement, award packaging, and reconciliation processes.
Manage regulatory reporting and reconciliation, including annual audits, Direct Loans, and Pell Grant
Ensure compliance with federal and state regulations, including Title IV policies, institutional policies, and audit requirements.
Supervise financial aid staff and provide professional development and training opportunities.
Collaborate with others to maintain and optimize financial aid systems and technologies
Manage escalated student financial aid inquiries and disputes, ensuring a high level of customer service.
Assist in the development and implementation of strategies to enhance financial aid processing efficiency and service delivery
Evaluate and revise financial aid processes, leveraging data and feedback to streamline operations and improve student experiences


Benefits Summary Top Benefits and Perks:
Exempt Benefits Summary

Minimum Qualifications:
Minimum Qualifications:
Education:
Bachelor’s Degree is required.

Experience and Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
7 or more years of supervisory experience
Three (3) years of full-time professional experience in loan processing, Title IV aid reporting, verification, federal Pell Grant, satisfactory Academic Progress and private loan processing with increasing levels of responsibility and authority where they have demonstrated excellent organizational and leadership skills.
Knowledge of Federal Direct Loan, Satisfactory Academic Progress, Return of Title IV and verification regulation required.


Preferences:
Preferred Qualifications:
Strong understanding of financial aid operations and regulatory compliance.
Excellent leadership, organizational, and communication skills.
Ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams and departments.
Proficiency in data analysis and reporting tools.
Commitment to student success and providing high-quality service.
Additional Certifications:
Additional Information:
Salary range is $80,000 – $100,000.
Job Risks Not Applicable to This Position
Physical Demands
Physical Demands:
Work is performed in an office environment and requires the ability to operate standard office equipment and keyboards.
Must have the ability to lift and carry small parcels, packages and other items, to walk short distances, and drive a vehicle to deliver and pick up materials