ASSISTANT DIRECTOR / FINANCIAL AID

at  Central Michigan University

General oversight over William D. Ford Direct Loan Program and Federal Pell Program; Financial Aid presentations for internal/external constituencies; Financial Aid counseling for students and parents; professional judgment functions; financial aid processing.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor’s degree.
One year experience in financial aid counseling or three-years of experience in higher education student services related function(s).
Ability to maintain positive interpersonal relations with students, staff, faculty visitors and work associates.
Demonstrated positive communication and public speaking skills.
Ability to project a positive image and work independently.
Knowledge of and experience with administering federal and state financial aid programs.
Knowledge of higher education policies and procedures applicable to the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid.
Ability to perform the essential functions of the job.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Possession of working knowledge of higher education policies and procedures as they apply to the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid.
Knowledge of and experience in MS Office Suite.
Familiarity with on-line computerized database management systems.
Ability to organize and direct the work activities of others.

Reviews and verifies application documents and works with federal and state agencies in the delivery of aid to students. Assist with verification of student application information for both state and federal and intuitional programs.
Collects and/or analyzes financial data on students to determine aid eligibility and make awards within federal, state, donor and/or institutional guidelines.
Assists in answering emails sent to the financial aid office email address, including the necessary research, obtaining assistance from other staff when needed, and responding to the student/parent in a timely fashion.
Evaluates documentation for unusual/mitigating circumstances as provided by the student; exercises judgment by making adjustments or revisions to costs, family contribution, demonstrated need or dependency status as exceptions to the prescribed process.
Answers questions, inquiries or requests from students, parents, or guardians in person or in writing regarding financial aid programs and eligibility.
Assists in the preparation of and presents information regarding federal financial aid, scholarships, employment and grants for various campus groups, high school students and parents at meetings, group discussions, workshops and recruitment sessions.
Maintains integrity and appropriate confidentiality in departmental and program operations.
Participates in conferences, seminars and professional meetings.
Interfaces with students, campus departments and external agencies to resolve issues that arise.
Assists with other financial aid activities such as outreach, reporting and monitoring.
Performs other duties as assigned.