A Financial Aid Director directs the allocation of financial aid funds and services at a college or university. Applies college policies regarding aid, manages institution's programs and outreach efforts, assists selected applicants, maintains confidentiality, and oversees employees in the financial aid office.
Founded in 1895, Gratz College is the oldest independent and pluralistic Jewish college in North America. Its mission is to advance both education and applied Jewish wisdom for the benefit of a diverse student population, the Jewish community, and all people. The College achieves this mission through accredited degree programs, scholarship, and public engagement. Evolving from its roots as a Hebrew teacher's college, Gratz today enrolls students of all backgrounds from across the world in a diverse range of online degree and certificate programs.
Position Summary:
The Director of Financial Aid oversees the administration of student financial aid programs and ensures compliance with federal, state, and institutional requirements. This role manages financial aid operations, supports students through the aid process, and works across the institution to promote access, affordability, retention, and student success. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Administer federal, state, institutional, and external financial aid programs, including grants, loans, and scholarships. Oversee
FAFSA/ISIR
processing, verification as applicable, Return of Title IV calculations, satisfactory academic progress, awarding, disbursement, reconciliation, and loan certification. Manage graduate federal aid programs, including Direct Unsubsidized and Grad PLUS loans. Ensure compliance with Title IV and other applicable regulations, including NSLDS, COD, audits, program reviews, reporting, and required operational adjustments. Develop and maintain financial aid policies, procedures, records, communications, and documentation. Counsel prospective and current students regarding financial aid opportunities, eligibility, borrowing, enrollment changes, and financial literacy. Handle escalated student cases, including special circumstances, professional judgment reviews, and students experiencing financial hardship. Collaborate with Admissions, Student Accounts, the Registrar, Academic Affairs, and academic programs on enrollment, billing, aid eligibility, and student support. Advise on institutional scholarship awards and participate in planning related to enrollment, retention, affordability, and student success. Provide training and guidance to faculty and staff regarding financial aid policies and processes.
Qualifications Required:
Bachelor's degree At least five years of progressively responsible financial aid experience Knowledge of federal and state financial aid regulations and Title IV programs Experience with student information and financial aid systems Strong organizational, analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills
Preferred:
Master's degree Experience in higher education administration or enrollment management Familiarity with online and graduate education environments Participation in professional financial aid associations To apply, please send a cover letter and CV to jobs@gratz.edu . Position is open until filled.
