Financial Aid Program Specialist / Lead Financial Aid Program Specialist

University Of Michigan • Dearborn, MI

405d • $55,000 - $65,000 • Remote

About The Position

The Financial Aid Program Specialist / Lead Financial Aid Program Specialist manages and oversees various financial aid and scholarship programs at the University of Michigan-Dearborn. This role ensures compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations while providing high-quality support to students. The position emphasizes a commitment to diversity and inclusion, reflecting the university's values.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree required or equivalent experience is required.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in financial aid.
• Knowledge of Title IV federal regulations preferred.
• Extensive experience with integrated database systems (Ellucian Banner preferred) and document imaging systems (ImageNow preferred).
• Experience working with diverse populations required.
• Excellent ability to collect, compile, and analyze information and data.
• Outstanding organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Proven ability to work independently while identifying and resolving complex problems.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including conflict resolution and public speaking.
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality regarding all applicant financial and eligibility information.
• Must not be in Default or Overpayment in any Title IV Federal Programs (Pell, Loans, etc.).
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in financial aid, IT, or a related field for the Lead level.
• Experience with setting up financial modules within student information systems.
• Demonstrated experience in leading and developing process improvement initiatives to automate core financial aid processes.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with Banner student information system and other Ellucian Student Financial Success Products (Scholarship Universe, Student Forms, Campus Communicator, etc.).

Responsibilities

• Oversee and process federal, state, private, scholarship programs and institutional financial aid.
• Administer and reconcile financial aid funds.
• Transmit and maintain records such as entrance loan counseling and Master Promissory Notes.
• Compile data and prepare reports for external donors and organizations.
• Maintain the Scholarship Universe platform and manage private scholarship applications.
• Perform monthly reconciliations with the Financial Services department.
• Review over-award and compliance reports, making necessary adjustments.
• Evaluate and analyze financial and personal documentation submitted by aid applicants.
• Maintain comprehensive knowledge of federal, state, and institutional guidelines and regulations, including IRS 1040 filing regulations.
• Conduct transfer monitoring functions and ensure compliance by reviewing response reports.
• Serve as the primary contact for OFAS staff and other departments regarding program administration.
• Coordinate projects to deliver high-quality service to diverse student populations.
• Determine aid eligibility using analytical tools and professional discretion.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues related to disbursement and awarding records.
• Stay current with federal, state, and institutional policies by attending professional development and training opportunities.
• Represent the university and the Office of Financial Aid at conferences and training sessions.
• Participate in special projects and office initiatives as directed.
• Lead efforts to identify, scope, and implement operational financial aid system enhancements.
• Assist with system testing, setup, and maintenance.
• Assist in developing and implementing new procedures, policies, forms, and manuals.
• Supervise student workers, including performance monitoring and guidance.
• Assist leadership in creating and implementing comprehensive training plans for student workers.

Benefits

• Health insurance coverage
• Dental insurance coverage
• Vision insurance coverage
• 401k retirement savings plan
• Paid holidays
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Flexible scheduling options
• Employee discount programs

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Educational Services
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees