Assistant Director - Federal & Special Programs Unit (Financial Aid)

JOB SUMMARY

The University of Connecticut’s Office of Student Financial Aid Services is seeking a dynamic, positive, and motivated professional to join our team! The Assistant Director – Federal & Special Programs (Administrative Program Manager 1) will oversee and lead the Federal & Special Programs Unit within the Office of Student Financial Aid Services. 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Overall management of the Federal Pell Grant and Federal Direct Loan Programs for all UConn campuses. 
• Foster a cohesive team environment among Federal & Special Programs Unit staff through direct supervision, guidance, and professional development. 
• Serve as the lead administrator for alternative (private) loans and the Nurse Faculty Program. 
• Lead the University’s preferred lender list process. 
• Work collaboratively with other University departments to develop efficiency and resolve complex grant and loan issues. 
• Serve as a member of the management team within the office, establishing goals, and providing staff with strategic direction. 
• Serve on committees and workgroups responsible for evaluating, planning, and implementing changes to federal student aid programs and institutional processes resulting from federal legislation, regulations, and policy changes, including the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

1. Bachelor’s degree from a college or university accredited by a US Department of Education or internationally recognized accrediting organization and five years of financial aid-related professional experience; OR Master’s degree from a college or university accredited by a US Department of Education or internationally recognized accrediting organization and 3 years of financial aid-related professional experience.  
2. Knowledge of federal and state regulations pertaining to financial aid, specifically including federal and grant programs. 
3. Supervisory experience, including two years serving as an advanced/senior team member or working as a project lead and demonstrated ability to effectively lead and manage a team. 
4. Strong written and oral communication skills and decision-making ability. 
5. Excellent interpersonal skills including the demonstrated ability to deal effectively with the public, University community, and external constituencies. 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

1. Advanced degree. 
2. Demonstrated knowledge in the administration of Title IV programs and related cash management. 
3. Working knowledge of Oracle Student Administration System. 
4. Experience working in a unionized environment. 

APPOINTMENT TERMS

This is a full-time, twelve-month position. The expected salary range for this position is $75,786 to $98,522. The University offers a competitive salary, and outstanding benefits, including employee and dependent tuition waivers at UConn, and a highly desirable work environment.  For additional information regarding benefits, please visit UConn Health Benefits and explore the sections under the Benefits & Leaves and Engagement & Learning headers. 

Other rights, terms, and conditions of employment are contained in the collective bargaining agreement between the University of Connecticut and the University of Connecticut Professional Employees Association (UCPEA).

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

Employment of the successful candidate is contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment criminal background check.

TO APPLY

Please apply online at Faculty and Staff Positions, Search #499679 to upload a resume, cover letter, and contact information for three (3) professional references. Applicants must clearly demonstrate how they meet the stated minimum qualifications, and any preferred qualifications they may posses