"Director, Student Accounts"

Swarthmore College is a highly selective liberal arts college located in the suburbs of Philadelphia, whose mission combines academic rigor with social responsibility.

The opportunity: The Director, Student Accounts has primary responsibility for planning, developing, managing, and administering programs that support the billing and collection of student accounts, ensuring compliance with all applicable federal and state regulations, and ensuring that regular cashier activities related to the receipt, deposit, and accounting of student account funds are administered effectively, efficiently, and with a focus on customer service and accuracy.

The Director works collaboratively with the Financial Aid Office to meet customer service needs and take a proactive approach to student financial matters. The Director also collaborates with Information Technology Services to ensure smooth systems and operations.

Serves as the primary liaison between the Controller’s Office and other key administrative offices for proper billing, collection, re-enrollment, and graduation eligibility. Communicates and counsels students and families on account obligations, billing, payment, and collection concerns. Administers the Swarthmore College Monthly Payment Plan. Provides timely and accurate management reports for auditing and decision-making. Supervises one full-time support staff person and performs other relevant duties as necessary.

Essential Responsibilities:

• Directs operational activities of the Student Accounts Office, including accurate and timely billing and collection of student accounts receivable. Responsible for cashier functions, including security of funds, proper recording, timely depositing, and reconciliation of cash receipts.
• Manages the Swarthmore College Payment Plan and maintains accurate student records.
• Receives and processes receipts via various methods.
• Manages student refund processes, ensuring compliance with Federal Title IV regulations. Coordinates billing schedules with appropriate offices.
• Supervises e-bill and e-pay processes and promotes these services.
• Monitors and manages student accounts receivable and collections, including contracting with third-party agencies.
• Prepares reports for accounts in arrears and arranges collection strategies.
• Prepares journal entries for proper accounting of student receivables.
• Maintains expertise on the College’s database module and acts as a super-user for systems like Banner and Workday.
• Provides reports on students not meeting financial responsibilities and ensures compliance with regulations.
• Reviews and implements best practices for billing, collection, and student records.
• Tracks loan information and executes loan promissory notes.

Communication and Relationship Management:

• Effectively answers questions and resolves problems for students and families.
• Maintains positive interactions and acts as a liaison with various College departments and external contacts.
• Maintains and creates websites and office communications.

Account Reconciliation and Reporting:

• Prepares accurate lists and reports of receivable balances.
• Responsible for 1098-T reporting and timely submission to students and the IRS.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• Directly supervises the Student Accounts Assistant and performs related supervisory duties.

Who you are: Proven leadership skills, strong analytical and communication skills, ability to work independently, and handle sensitive situations.

What you bring: Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Accounting, or related field with five years of experience. Proficient in computer software and integrated systems.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions: Requires focus in a stationary position; standard office environment with occasional evenings and weekends.

What You Will Get: Work at a renowned liberal arts college with benefits, a collaborative environment, and support for students, faculty, and staff. For full consideration, submit applications by September 5, 2025. The salary range is $72,000-$104,000 per year.

View benefits at: Benefits Flyer, 2025 Benefits Guidebook, Retirement Plans, Tuition Grant Program, Tuition Reimbursement Program, Paid Time Off, Holiday Schedule.