Manager of Student Financial Services

University of Maine • Farmington, ME

9h • $48,000 - $54,000

About The Position

At the University of Maine at Farmington, we know that “behind the scenes” is where the magic happens. We're seeking a Manager of Student Financial Services who is as personable as they are precise. This isn't just about spreadsheets and regulations - though you will certainly be an expert a those - it's about leading the Merrill Center team with a smile and making complex financial processes feel manageable for our students and their families. As a key leader on our campus, you'll be the “go-to” person for Financial Aid, Student Records, and Billing. You will lead a dedicated staff by being a mentor and a teammate, ensuring our operations run like clockwork while maintaining a culture of empathy and high-level service. If you are a collaborative professional with a passion for operational accuracy and supporting student success, we invite you to apply! Typical hiring range for this position is $48,000 - $54,000 commensurate with qualifications and experience.

Requirements

• Education: Bachelor's degree
• Experience: 3-5 years of progressively responsible experience in financial aid, student accounts, student records, or a related field.
• Leadership: Minimum of 3 years of supervisory experience.
• Technical Knowledge: A strong understanding of financial aid administration and student account processes.
• Teamwork: You have a demonstrated collaborative work style and thrive in a partnership-driven environment.
• Planning and Organizing: You can manage multiple priorities and deadlines effectively without losing sight of the details.
• Communication: You possess strong interpersonal, written, verbal, and customer service skills - you “speak human”.
• Problem-Solving and Decision Making: You can interpret complex regulations and make sound, ethical decisions with sharp attention to detail.
• Adaptability: You respond positively and effectively to change, maintaining a steady hand as policies or systems evolve.
• Analytical and Organizational Skills: You enjoy diving into the data and have the skills to keep complex systems running smoothly.
• Customer Support: You have a deep commitment to student-centered service delivery.
• Technology Utilization: You are proficient with MainStreet (PeopleSoft), financial aid systems, Microsoft Office Suite, and Google Workspace.
• Confidentiality: You handle sensitive information with the utmost discretion and professionalism.
• Demonstrated Leadership: You have the proven ability to lead, support, and supervise staff effectively.

Nice To Haves

• Deep knowledge of federal and state financial aid regulations.
• Experience working in a public higher education environment.

Responsibilities

• Administer with Accuracy: Manage federal, state, and institutional aid programs, including verification, awarding, and R2T4 calculations.
• Oversee Billing: Ensure accuracy in student billing, third-party payments, and the processing of outside scholarships.
• Coordinate Special Programs: Manage merit aid, tuition pledges, and veteran/waiver programs.
• Student Outreach: Oversee payment plans, transcript holds, and supportive outreach for past-due accounts.
• Lead the Merrill Center: Direct daily operations to ensure warm, helpful, and efficient front-line service delivery.
• Coach Your Team: Supervise, train, and evaluate staff, acting as a mentor who coaches them towards success.
• Solve the Hard Stuff: Step in as the primary escalation point and calm voice for complex student or family inquiries.
• Stay Connected: Maintain the Merrill Center's web content and internal procedures to ensure the team has the right tools to succeed.
• Keep Life Organized: Oversee enrollment changes (add/drips, withdrawals) to ensure student records are pristine.
• Bridge the Gap: Act as the friendly, professional liaison with the UMS Systems Office and external funding agencies.
• Manage Resources: Reconcile operating budgets for the department, treating University resources with care.
• Ensure Integrity: Maintain compliance with the Department of Defense MOU and all other federal and state financial aid regulations.

Benefits

• The University of Maine offers a wide range of benefits for employees including, but not limited to, tuition benefits (employee and dependent), comprehensive insurance coverage including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and short and long term disability as well as retirement plan options.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Number of Employees: 101-250 employees