Assistant Director, Financial Aid

Wake Forest University•Winston-Salem, NC

About The Position

The Office of Student Financial Aid Assistant Director provides counseling, need analysis, and financial aid packaging for an assigned alphabetical section of students. The Assistant Director serves as a primary financial aid contact for assigned students and advises students and families about the application process, eligibility, unusual or extenuating circumstances, and available financial aid programs. The role administers assigned aid programs, processes, or functional areas, which may include eligibility, awarding, disbursement, adjustments, reconciliation, reporting, compliance, and coordination with other parts of a student’s financial aid package. The Assistant Director supports effective stewardship of financial aid operations through documentation, cross-training, backup coverage, and process improvement, and works with University departments to support accurate, timely, and compliant administration. Most duties are performed in an office setting on the University campus in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and remotely as departmental and University needs allow. The position is full-time, reports to the Executive Director of Financial Aid for assigned program or process responsibilities, and is responsible for its own work only. Occasional evenings or weekends and travel may be required. The position is not eligible for sponsorship of non-immigrant or immigrant visa status.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree.
At least 3 years of experience in financial aid administration or a related higher education setting.
Demonstrated knowledge of federal financial aid regulations and financial aid administration.
Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills, including the ability to manage multiple priorities accurately and professionally in a high-volume setting.
Excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively across diverse campus constituencies.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively, exercise sound judgment, and respond flexibly to evolving priorities.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and student information systems.
Ability to manage sensitive information confidentially and protect PII, CUI, and other sensitive information in accordance with applicable requirements.
Willingness to work occasional evenings and weekends and travel as needed.

Nice To Haves

Experience with both federal and institutional financial aid methodology.
Experience with multiple financial aid programs or functional areas.
Experience with PowerFAIDS or a similar system.

Responsibilities

Coordinate and administer assigned financial aid programs and operational functions, including student eligibility, awarding, disbursement, adjustments, reconciliation, reporting, compliance, and coordination with other components of students’ financial aid packages, as applicable.
Serve as a primary financial aid contact for an assigned alphabetical caseload, advising students and families on eligibility, application requirements, award decisions, and changes in individual circumstances.
Perform need analysis and exercise professional judgment when evaluating special or unusual financial circumstances; package and revise awards in compliance with institutional and federal regulations.
Participate in financial aid appeals, scholarship reviews, case discussions, and other committees or working groups as assigned.
Support federal and institutional compliance through accurate documentation, review of assigned responsibilities, and audit readiness; contribute to the stewardship and continuity of shared operations.
Maintain accurate records of communications, awarding decisions, and supporting documentation in accordance with office protocols.
Coordinate presentations and workshops for prospective and current students and families, and develop outreach and training materials as needed.
Contribute to the development and continuous improvement of financial aid systems and procedures related to assigned responsibilities.
Participate in cross-training and provide backup support for programs and processes outside primary assignments during absences, vacancies, peak periods, and transitions.
Serve as a primary or secondary contact with campus partners, including the Registrar’s Office, Student Financial Services, Undergraduate Admissions, and other University departments.
Perform other duties as assigned in support of the Student Financial Aid Office.