Operations, Employer Relations & Student Support Specialist - Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships - UTK

University of Tennessee • Knoxville, TN

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK) invites applications and nominations for our Operations, Employer Relations & Student Support Specialist position. We are seeking candidates who can contribute in meaningful ways to enhance the accessibility of higher education, fostering a diverse and inclusive academic environment, and improving the recruitment and graduation of our students. The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, has been ranked by Forbes as one of America’s best large employers, as recognized on the 2025 list. The minimum starting salary for this position is $36,841 . Final compensation will be determined based on the candidate’s qualifications and experience. This is an on-campus position with some hybrid/remote work schedule flexibility. The Operations, Employer Relations & Student Support Specialist role supports the administration of the Federal Work-Study (FWS) program by providing direct service to students and campus employer supervisors, managing onboarding and payroll workflows, maintaining accurate data across institutional systems, and ensuring adherence to established Financial Aid, HR, and Payroll procedures. This position performs work under the direction of the Campus-Based Coordinator and plays a key role in executing daily operational processes that support a compliant, student-centered employment experience.

Requirements

• High school diploma or at least two years' experience in accounting and/or payroll
• Well-developed oral and written communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work in fast-paced environment and meet deadlines.
• Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without need now or in the future for sponsorship for employment-based visa status.

Nice To Haves

• Associate’s degree
• Experience with Oracle ERP or similar payroll system.
• Must be able to work in a stressful environment due to the pressures and sensitivity of matters of financial concerns while maintaining student confidentiality.
• Working knowledge of the University payroll system preferred.
• Working knowledge of personnel or Human Resource functions.
• Ability to manage dates and deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Supports the administration of the Federal Work-Study (FWS) program
• Provides direct service to students and campus employer supervisors
• Manages onboarding and payroll workflows
• Maintains accurate data across institutional systems
• Ensures adherence to established Financial Aid, HR, and Payroll procedures
• Executes daily operational processes that support a compliant, student-centered employment experience

Benefits

• Generous paid leave , accruing up to 24 days of vacation and 12 days of sick leave annually, plus 14 paid holidays and administrative closing days
• Flexible work arrangements, offering a hybrid schedule to most team members
• Education benefits for employees and their dependents at UT System campuses
• Retirement and deferred compensation plans, including 401(k), 403(b), etc.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans
• Employee discounts to attractions, services, and goods

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED