Operations Coordinator-Division of Enrollment Management-UTK

The Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK) invites applications and nominations for our Operations Coordinator 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 $48,000. Final compensation will be determined based on the candidate’s qualifications and experience.

 

The Position: 

This is an on-campus position with some hybrid/remote work schedule flexibility.

Reporting to the Associate Director of Operations & Compliance, the Operations Coordinator plays a critical, independent decision-making role within the Office of Financial Aid & Scholarships, with authority to determine student eligibility for federal, state, and institutional grants and loans. This position independently interprets and applies complex financial aid policies and guidelines to make final decisions on award adjustments, freeze date appeal approvals or denials and exercises professional judgment in compliance with all relevant regulations.

The position also serves as a key operational liaison, ensuring cross-departmental coordination among Financial Aid Systems, Financial Aid Student Services, Scholarships, and Operations and Compliance teams. This role manages transfer monitoring, operational reporting, and auditing to maintain regulatory compliance and optimize award accuracy.

Required Education and Experience: 

Bachelor's degree and two (2) years relevant experience, OR 

Associate's degree and three (3) years relevant experience, OR 

High school diploma and five (5) years relevant experience.

 

Preferred Education and Experience: 

Bachelor's Degree

• 2+ years of progressively responsible direct financial aid experience. 

• Working knowledge of federal and state financial aid rules and regulations. 

• Supervisory experience preferred.

 

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

• Excellent oral and written communication skills. 

• Ability to write clear, concise letters using effectual writing skills. 

• Sensitive to cultural diversity and ability to communicate and interact effectively with people of all ages and diverse backgrounds. 

• Proven ability to work effectively as a team member and able to supervise staff. 

• Ability to analyze and interpret data and make and be responsible for independent decisions. 

• Ability to work under time constraints.

 

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: 

• Demonstrated knowledge of Ellucian Banner, OnBase, Argos and/or Saleforce or similar software experience preferred. 

• Familiarity with Microsoft Office products

 

Benefits: 

University of Tennessee employees are eligible for a comprehensive suite of benefits that includes:

• 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