Assistant Program Manager

The Financial Aid Program Specialist (Assistant Program Manager) serves as a primary lead for the oversight and administration of specific federal, state, or institutional programs as assigned. This position is designed to be dynamic, with specific programmatic responsibilities (such as Federal Pell Grant, Direct Loans, Michigan Competitive Scholarship, or Return to Title IV) determined based on current operational needs or departmental gaps. The Specialist manages day-to-day operations, ensures strict regulatory compliance, and maintains a high level of service consistent with the mission of the University of Michigan-Dearborn.

Program Administration & Compliance

• Lead Oversight: Manage one or more assigned federal, state, private, or institutional programs.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure all program activities adhere to federal and state regulations as well as University policies.
• Operational Processing: Transmit files between the Department of Education and the University, and resolve processing issues or rejects for federal disbursement records and state awarding rosters.
• Reconciliation: Responsible for monthly program reconciliation in coordination with Financial Services.
• Monitoring & Adjustments: Perform transfer monitoring and review over-award/compliance reports, making necessary adjustments to student records.

Financial Counseling & Eligibility

• Need Analysis: Evaluate family financial strength by analyzing complex tax returns, income sources, and assets to determine aid eligibility.
• Professional Judgment: Exercise discretion to adjust data elements based on extenuating circumstances while maintaining strict confidentiality.

Client Support:

• Serve as the primary contact for students and staff regarding program-specific issues, including resolving disbursement barriers like loan counseling or Master Promissory Note (MPN) imports.

Strategic Operations & Leadership

• Process Improvement: Assist in developing and implementing new procedures, manuals, and forms.
• Systems Integration: Work with FA leadership to establish priorities for Banner (SIS) enhancements to improve processing efficiency.
• Professional Representation: Maintain involvement in professional organizations (MSFAA, NASFAA, etc.) and represent the University at conferences.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of 2-3 years of experience in financial aid, IT, or a related field.
• Experience working with and a commitment to serving diverse populations.

Technical Skills

• High-level ability to collect, compile, and analyze data to produce reports.
• Candidates must not be in default or overpayment on any Title IV Federal Programs.

Soft Skills

• Outstanding interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and proactively resolve complex problems.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage competing priorities under pressure.
• A collaborative, team-oriented mindset and a focus on excellent customer service.

Education & Experience

• Knowledge of Title IV federal regulations.

Technical Skills

• Extensive experience with integrated database systems, specifically Ellucian, Banner and ImageNow document imaging.

Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.