The Assistant Director manages and monitors complex Financial Aid processes. This position is responsible for performing all aspects of the financial aid process including reviewing and processing of student awards, independently adjusting, and making corrections when warranted, and reconciliation of awards and funds. The position also processes assigned Financial Aid programs that require analyzing complex data and utilizing technologies and customized software to create and apply automated workflow to increase efficiency and ensure compliance. The Assistant Director will manage and support the administration of financial aid, including Federal Title IV programs, NJ State programs, and projects, keeping in compliance with federal, state and institutional regulations.

Manage and Monitor Financial Aid Programs

• Process daily operations of complex financial aid programs that includes managing electronic and workflow processes to ensure efficient and effective delivery of financial aid.
• Resolve and process issues that arise from the various platforms and data exchanges used in the administration of financial aid.
• Reconcile state financial aid program awards and funding utilizing various software systems including Colleague, Informer and NJFAMS.
• Verify and approve financial aid eligibility in accordance with federal and state regulations and provide file for weekly financial aid transmissions.
• Manage NJ STARS state program to include identification, eligibility determination, verification of documents, awarding, funding, certifying, monitoring, reconciliation.
• Create and review student financial aid award packages, ensuring accuracy with financial aid regulations (both Federal and State) Assist students in areas concerning their financial aid, such as completing verification and professional judgement processes.
• Manage Financial Aid program for undocumented students. Process, identify, communicate, keep track, and report to the State of NJ.

Counsel and Advise about Financial Aid Process

• Educate students, prospective students, families, and employees of the college upon request.
• Respond to questions and requests from students as appropriate.

Technical and System Support

• Assist the Director and Associate Director in managing projects that require researching, assessing and implementing initiatives for all student financial aid related information systems.
• Provide technical assistance in implementing and utilizing special software, electronic workflow and technology.
• Analyze data and generate complex reports for various financial aid processes.

Other duties as assigned, including but not limited to:

• If called upon, work with students and families, Open House, Present at Open House or Conferences.

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree.

Experience: 

• Two years of working experience in financial aid that includes detailed knowledge of applicable Federal and State requirements necessary; to include at least one year of experience with applicable financial aid software management systems such as FAACESS, COD, NJFAMS, FAACESS.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

•  Strong analytical skills.
• Self-directed, with good organizational skills.
• Ability to act independently as well as part of a team.
• Proven ability to analyze and recommend improvements in departmental operations.
• Excellent organizational skills; pays careful attention to detail; self-starter with a positive attitude toward student services; ability to work collaboratively with students as well as with colleagues; and a strong commitment to the field of higher education.
• Ability to learn tasks using independent resources.
• Must be computer literate with ability to utilize Microsoft Office at an intermediate level and the ability to learn and utilize specific higher education programs and systems.
• Knowledge of developing reports in Informer by Entrinsik Informer or similar enterprise desirable.
• Knowledge of Ellucian Self-Serve Financial Aid with Ellucian Colleague Student System desirable.

Preferred Qualifications & Special Considerations: 

• Knowledge of Monmouth County and its communities. 
• Working conditions are generally favorable. High volume, high-pressure, numerous deadlines. Must be able to work evening hours and weekends during peak periods.

Special Instructions to Applicants: 

A review of applications will be ongoing until the position is filled. Submission of application materials by Wednesday, April 16th, 2025, is preferred to ensure full consideration.

Summary of Benefits: Summary of Benefits Administrative Exempt Staff - UPDATED 2023 (1).docx