Assistant Director, Financial Aid

Assistant Director, Financial Aid

Job #: 042837

Location: Syracuse, NY

Pay Range: $62,400

Hours: Standard University business hours 8:30am - 5:00pm (academic year) 8:00am - 4:30pm (summer). Hours may vary based on operational needs.

Job Type: Full Time

Job Description:

The Assistant Director will supervise five financial aid counselors each serving approximately 2,000 students receiving financial aid. This role includes providing training and support as counselors conduct needs analysis, determine federal and institutional eligibility, and apply professional judgment when appropriate. The AD will ensure efficient workflow, high-quality customer service, and a positive team environment. As the primary contact for transfer students, the AD will also review reports, and process appeals for this population. The role also oversees the undergraduate main campus merit appeal process, including training, escalations, and appeals. The AD will also administer several internal scholarship programs. Additionally, the Assistant Director will serve as a key resource for staff within and outside the Financial Aid Office.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelors degree required. Masters degree preferred

Skills and Knowledge:

• Knowledge of federal and state regulations required. Progressive experience in financial aid including supervising staff required.
• Microsoft products experience needed,
• PeopleSoft preferred.
• Excellent communication skills, attention to detail, and ability to analyze data.

Responsibilities:

• Lead and support a team of five financial aid counselors by providing ongoing training, guidance, and oversight throughout the financial aid cycle.
• Ensure staff understand annual responsibilities, performance expectations, and current financial aid regulations.
• Develop and deliver training for both new and continuing staff to promote efficient, accurate, and student-centered service.
• Assist with high-volume workloads and resolve complex student and family escalations as needed.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for transfer students by providing individualized support throughout the financial aid process.
• Responsibilities include meeting with students, creating and reviewing financial aid award packages, monitoring and analyzing reports, and evaluating and processing appeals.
• Manage multiple internal scholarship programs, including Junior Achievement, Scholarship in Action, Invest in Success, Remembrance Scholarship, Tepper Scholarship, Maxwell Community Impact Scholarship, and PTK Scholarship.
• Responsibilities include overseeing program administration, reviewing eligibility requirements, coordinating award processing, and ensuring timely communication and compliance with institutional policies and deadlines.
• Provide oversight and day-to-day management of the undergraduate main campus merit appeal process, including staff training, case escalations, and appeal review procedures.
• Coordinate and lead a cross-functional merit appeal committee composed of representatives from across the university, facilitating weekly meetings to review cases, ensure consistent decision-making, and maintain compliance with institutional policies and standards.
• Advise students and families on Syracuse University financial aid policies, awarding processes, and application requirements.
• Review CSS Profiles, complete federal verification processes, and provide guidance throughout the financial aid application cycle.
• Represent the university at FAFSA filing events and financial aid information sessions on and off campus, delivering clear and supportive assistance to prospective and current students and their families.