Associate Director of Financial

Job Description

SUMMARY:

Reporting to the Director of Financial Aid, the Associate Director of Financial Aid serves as a member of the Enrollment Management team and is responsible for leading the financial aid office at Montclair State University and Bloomfield College of Montclair State University in ensuring regulatory compliance. The Associate Director collaborates across divisions to ensure the effective administration of federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs. The Associate Director develops and implements policies that promote compliance, efficiency, and student accessibility to financial resources, thereby enhancing student retention, satisfaction, and success.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Review, interpret and implement Federal Title IV and State Student Assistance Authority regulations to ensure compliance.

• Design, develop and review policies and procedures that support the institution’s mission, are sensitive to a diverse student body (majority, minority, non-traditional) and ensure effective and efficient processing of aid.

• Review and update all communications to students (Student FA Handbook, website information, etc.).

• Manage the Federal Work-Study program and the Return of Title IV process.

• Develop financial aid packaging policies which endeavor to meet the demonstrated financial need of a diverse student population while monitoring student eligibility and financial need.

• Provide supervision, training, and development of professional and support staff both in Financial Aid and partner offices (RHC, EOF, etc.).

• Develop collaborative environment with other offices having a direct relationship with financial aid processes at the college (Enrollment Management (Admissions, Registrar, etc.), Student Accounts, Academic Advising, etc.).

• Oversee financial aid staff members, fostering a culture of excellence in customer service and professional development.

• Maintain accurate financial aid records and reports, ensuring timely submission to regulatory agencies and internal stakeholders (e.g. FISAP, IPEDS, Peterson’s, etc.).

• Act as a liaison with external agencies and organizations related to financial aid, promoting awareness and collaboration.

• Represent Montclair State University at state and national financial aid associations and conferences as well as recruitment events in campus.

• Synthesize multiple viewpoints and develop consensus within differing groups.

• Perform other duties as assigned.

• Management retains the right to change or add job duties at any time.

QUALIFICATIONS:

REQUIRED:

• Master's degree from an accredited college or university in Higher Education Administration, Business Administration, or a related field.

• Minimum of five (5) years of progressive management experience in financial aid or a related area within higher education.

• Strong knowledge of federal and state financial aid regulations and compliance issues.

• Minimum of three (3) years of experience with Ellucian Banner or other Student Information System.

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively across various departments and with diverse populations.

• Strong analytical skills and proficiency in financial aid software and data management systems.

• Demonstrated ability to interpret and apply complex regulations and policies.

PREFERRED:

• Proven leadership skills and experience managing staff effectively in a complex organizational environment.

• Ability to engage diverse populations and understand their unique financial needs.

• Strong public speaking and presentation skills, with experience presenting to various stakeholders.

• Resourceful, flexible, and capable of problem-solving in a fast-paced environment.

• Experience in a public university setting.

• Active involvement in professional organizations such as NASFAA (National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators) or state-level financial aid associations.

• Knowledge of New Jersey state financial aid programs and regulations.

• Demonstrated success in process improvement and operational efficiency initiatives.

PROCEDURE FOR CANDIDACY

Applicants should include a resume and cover letter describing how their background, skills and education match the needs of the University. When applying, please take a moment to carefully read and follow the steps in the application instructions. 

Salary Range

$100,000.00-$120,000.00 Annually

The position may also be eligible for comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and tuition assistance. For further details, please visit: https://www.montclair.edu/human-resources/benefits/   

Montclair State University considers factors such as, but not limited to, scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate’s relevant work experience, education, skills, and internal equity, when extending an offer.

Salary offers for internal employees who are part of a collective bargaining unit (CBU) and are applying to a position that is within a CBU will be determined in accordance with contractual provisions. 

Department

Financial Aid

Position Type

Administrative

Contact Information:

For questions or concerns, please contact Human Resources' Workday Recruiting Support at 973-655-5000 (Option 2), or email talent@montclair.edu.