Assistant Director, Financial Aid

External Applicants:

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Job Description Summary

The Office of Student Financial Aid Assistant Director will have a number of primary responsibilities, including providing counseling, need analysis and packaging for a section of students based on alphabetical distribution. The Assistant Director serves as a primary financial aid relationship contact for assigned students and advises students and families about the financial aid application process, financial aid eligibility, treatment of unusual and extenuating circumstances, and financial aid programs. The Assistant Director will also administer one or more aid programs, processes, or functional areas, as assigned by the Executive Director of Financial Aid, with responsibility for activities that may include student eligibility, awarding, disbursement, award adjustments, reconciliation, reporting, compliance, and coordination with other components of a student's financial aid package. The role supports effective stewardship of financial aid operations through appropriate documentation, cross-training, backup coverage, and process improvement, and partners across University departments to support accurate, timely, and compliant administration of financial aid.

Selection preference will be given to candidates with the ability to work independently, and collaboratively on a team in a professional manner; with the ability to plan and carry out the essential functions of the role; with a strong commitment to student service; the flexibility to adapt and respond to the needs of a diverse constituency and evolving office priorities; and excellent communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

The AD will perform most job duties in an office setting on the University campus in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and by remote modes according to departmental and university needs.

Job Description

Essential Functions:

• Coordinates and administers assigned financial aid programs and operational functions, including, as applicable, student eligibility, awarding, disbursement, adjustments, reconciliation, reporting, compliance, and coordination with other components of a student's financial aid package.
• Serves as a primary financial aid relationship contact for an assigned alphabetical caseload of students, providing continuity of service and advising students and families regarding financial aid eligibility, application requirements, award decisions, and changes in individual circumstances.
• Performs need analysis and exercises professional judgment in evaluating special or unusual financial circumstances; packages and revises financial aid awards in compliance with institutional and federal regulations.
• Participates in financial aid appeals, scholarship reviews, case discussions, and other committees or working groups as assigned.
• Supports federal and institutional compliance through accurate documentation, review of assigned responsibilities, and audit readiness; contributes to the stewardship and continuity of shared financial aid operations.
• Maintains detailed and accurate records of communication, awarding decisions, and supporting documentation in accordance with office protocols.
• Coordinates presentations and workshops for prospective and current students and families; develops outreach and training material, as needed.
• Contributes to the development and continuous improvement of financial aid systems and procedures related to assigned responsibilities.
• Participates in cross-training and provides backup support for financial aid programs and processes outside primary assignments to support operational continuity during absences, vacancies, peak periods, and transitions in responsibility.
• Serves as a primary or secondary contact with campus partners in the Registrar's Office, Student Financial Services, Undergraduate Admissions, and other University departments to meet students' needs and support effective financial aid administration.
• Performs other duties as assigned in support of the goals of the Student Financial Aid Office.

Required Education, Knowledge, Skills, Abilities:

• Bachelor's degree required.
• At least 3 years of experience in financial aid administration or related higher education setting; experience with both federal and institutional methodology preferred.
• Demonstrated knowledge of federal financial aid regulations, and financial aid administration; experience with multiple financial aid programs or functional areas preferred.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills; ability to manage multiple priorities in a high-volume setting with accuracy and professionalism.
• Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively across diverse campus constituencies.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team; sound judgment and flexibility in responding to evolving priorities.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and student information systems; PowerFAIDS or similar system experience preferred.
• Ability to manage sensitive information in a confidential manner and protect PII, CUI, and other sensitive information in accordance with applicable requirements.
• Willingness to work occasional evenings/weekends and travel as needed.

Accountabilities:

• Responsible for own work only.

Physical Requirements:

• Sedentary work primarily involves sitting/standing; communicating with others to exchange information; repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands, and/or fingers; and assessing the accuracy, neatness, and thoroughness of the work assigned.

Environmental Conditions:

• No environmental conditions

This position is not eligible for sponsorship of non-immigrant or immigrant visa status through Wake Forest University. All eligible applicants are encouraged to apply.

Additional Job Description

Time Type Requirement

Full time

Note to Applicant:

This position profile identifies the key responsibilities and expectations for performance. It cannot encompass all specific job tasks that an employee may be required to perform. Employees are required to follow any other job-related instructions and perform job-related duties as may be reasonably assigned by his/her supervisor.

In order to provide a safe and productive learning and living community, Wake Forest University conducts background investigations and drug screens for all final staff candidates being considered for employment.

Equal Opportunity Statement

The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all qualified candidates to apply without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, genetic information, disability and military or veteran status.

Accommodations for Applicants

If you are an individual with a disability and need an accommodation to participate in the application or interview process, please contact AskHR@wfu.edu or (336) 758-4700.