Financial Aid Data Analyst I

Iowa State University•Ames, IA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Office of Student Financial Aid at Iowa State University is seeking a detail-oriented and collaborative Financial Aid Data Analyst I to support the accuracy, compliance, and integrity of financial aid data and reporting. This position serves as the office’s primary reporter, ensuring timely and precise submission of institutional, state, and federal reports. The Data Analyst I will play a key role in maintaining data systems, developing and validating reports, and supporting data-informed decision-making that enhances student success.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree
Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship.
This position is based in Ames, Iowa, and the selected candidate must be able to commute and work on-site from the start of employment.

Nice To Haves

Experience using Student Information Systems and financial aid management systems such as Workday Student, Ellucian Banner, or PowerFAIDS for reporting and data extraction.
Proven experience creating and validating complex queries or reports using SQL or reporting tools (e.g., Workday Report Writer, Microsoft Access, Tableau, Power BI, or similar).
Demonstrated understanding of federal and state financial aid reporting requirements (e.g., FISAP, IPEDS, Common Data Set, Board of Regents, Iowa College Aid).
Experience collaborating with IT professionals and functional users to test, troubleshoot, and implement system updates or enhancements.
Experience with maintaining data accuracy, documentation, and compliance in a higher education environment.

Responsibilities

Serve as the primary reporter for the Office of Student Financial Aid, compiling, verifying, and submitting accurate data and reports.
Develop, run, and maintain queries and reports to support financial aid operations, compliance, and reconciliation.
Ensure data accuracy and integrity through validation, documentation, and standardized reporting practices.
Compile and submit required reports such as FISAP, IPEDS, Common Data Set, Board of Regents, and Iowa College Aid.
Monitor student enrollment and eligibility to ensure accurate disbursement and reporting of financial aid.
Support the reconciliation of financial aid funds with internal departments, including Accounting, Accounts Receivable, and Student Information offices.
Collaborate with Information Technology Services (ITS) and vendors to troubleshoot, test, and implement system updates.
Create and enhance reporting tools and dashboards for improved data access and decision-making.
Document and share reporting processes to promote team transparency and consistency.
Communicate data findings and reporting outcomes to stakeholders in clear, actionable formats.
Respond to data inquiries from external agencies, ensuring compliance with institutional, state, and federal requirements.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams (e.g., ERA, ITS, OSI) to resolve data issues and improve workflows.
Participate in system testing, validation, and training related to upgrades and regulatory changes.
Stay informed on financial aid regulations and support staff training to maintain compliance.
Pursue professional development opportunities relevant to financial aid, data reporting, and analysis.