Associate Director Systems - Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships - UTK

University of Tennessee•Knoxville, TN

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

The Associate Director of Systems serves as the visionary, strategic, and technical lead for financial aid systems at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK). Reporting to the Director of Financial Aid & Scholarships, this role ensures accurate, efficient, and compliant financial aid services while advancing innovation to support student access, retention, and success. The position oversees the Banner Financial Aid module and integrated technologies, Department of Education systems, and other third-party solutions, using technology to reduce barriers, streamline processes, and improve the experience for students and families. The Associate Director directly supervises two Financial Aid System Analysts, providing leadership, coaching, and professional development. Through automation, predictive analytics, and student-centered system design, the role helps position UTK as a leader in financial aid technology and supports the university’s land-grant mission and strategic enrollment plan. This is an on-campus position with some hybrid or remote schedule flexibility.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree.
At least five years of progressive, full-time professional experience in student systems management at a college or university.
Expert knowledge of financial aid systems.
Knowledge, experience, or training in federal financial aid regulations.
At least one year of supervisory experience, or experience leading or coordinating with a team.
Legally authorized to work in the United States full-time without current or future need for employment-based visa sponsorship.
Ability to work in a fast-paced, multifaceted profession and independently.
Excellent interpersonal communication skills.
Demonstrated ability to lead teams in a dynamic, complex environment.
Strong project management, communication, and collaboration skills.
Technical expertise in student information systems and the ability to envision and implement innovative solutions.
Commitment to continuous improvement, equity, and student-focused service delivery.

Nice To Haves

Experience in financial aid administration or enrollment management technology.
Experience with ODS Oracle, PL/SQL, Web Tailor, Argos, or similar systems.
Experience with financial aid software and systems such as SAIG, File Transfer Programs (FTP), ELM, COD, CPS, and NSLDS.
Experience with Ellucian Banner; proficiency with Ellucian Banner ERP is highly preferred.
Familiarity with federal systems (COD, NSLDS, CPS, SAIG), loan processing tools, and automation platforms.
Background applying technology to business process improvement in higher education.
Knowledge of principles and techniques of computer systems documentation and forms design.
Knowledge of federal and state regulations governing financial aid programs.

Responsibilities

Provide strategic and technical leadership for UTK financial aid systems.
Oversee the Banner Financial Aid module, integrated technologies, Department of Education systems, and third-party solutions.
Ensure financial aid services are accurate, efficient, and compliant.
Use systems and technology to reduce barriers, streamline processes, and improve the student and family experience.
Directly supervise two Financial Aid System Analysts, providing leadership, coaching, and professional development.
Advance automation, predictive analytics, and student-centered system design.