Assistant Director of Financial Aid

University of St. Thomas•Houston, TX

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Assistant Director of Financial Aid provides operational leadership within the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid. This position is responsible for supervising front-line staff, ensuring compliance with federal and institutional regulations, managing scholarship administration processes, and supporting reconciliation functions. The Assistant Director plays a critical role in maintaining the integrity of financial aid operations, supporting student success, and ensuring accurate stewardship of federal, state, and institutional funds.

Requirements

Demonstrated experience in financial aid administration, preferably within a private or nonprofit higher education institution.
Ability to work standard business hours onsite at the University.
Strong working knowledge of Title IV regulations, federal and state financial aid programs, and the financial aid lifecycle.
Experience performing R2T4 calculations and Direct Loan reconciliation.
Proficiency with PeopleSoft Campus Solutions; experience with AcademicWorks or similar scholarship platforms preferred.
Demonstrated supervisory or team leadership experience.
Strong analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a commitment to high-quality student service.

Nice To Haves

Experience with AcademicWorks or similar scholarship platforms

Responsibilities

Supervise front desk personnel and one Financial Aid Counselor, providing training, performance oversight, and professional development support.
Coordinate daily office operations to ensure efficient service delivery and responsiveness to students and families.
Monitor workflow, resolve escalated inquiries, and support staff with policy interpretation and procedural guidance.
Review, revise, and maintain financial aid forms and internal documentation to ensure clarity and compliance.
Maintain and support of Academic Works scholarship management system.
Collaborate with IT, Enrollment Management, and Academic Departments making awards to implement system enhancements and ensure data integrity.
Perform Return to Title IV (R2T4) calculations for students who withdraw, ensuring timely and accurate processing in accordance with federal regulations.
Reconcile Federal Direct Loan funds monthly, identifying and resolving discrepancies to maintain compliance.
Monitor adherence to Title IV regulations and institutional policies.
Assist with audit preparation and documentation as needed.
Oversee the awarding and disbursement of endowed and institutional scholarships in accordance with donor intent and university policies.
Supervise scholarship-related processes and support the Financial Aid Counselor assigned to scholarship administration.
Ensure timely fund utilization and accurate reporting of endowed scholarship activity.