Financial Aid Operations Director

Job Description:

Financial Aid Operations Director (Higher Education)

On-site | Maryland Area
Full-Time | 3-Month Contract (Potential for Extension)

We are partnering with a well-established higher education institution to identify an experienced professional to support financial aid systems and operations during a critical period. This is a 3-month engagement with the possibility of extension, offering an excellent opportunity to make an immediate impact.

Position Overview

This role is responsible for overseeing the performance, accuracy, and functionality of financial aid systems, ensuring seamless awarding and disbursement of funds. You will collaborate with internal teams and external partners to maintain system integrity, resolve issues, and enhance operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage daily operations of financial aid awarding and disbursement systems
• Monitor automated processes, job streams, and system workflows
• Validate system setup to ensure accurate aid packaging and delivery
• Lead ongoing reconciliation efforts to ensure timely and accurate disbursement
• Act as the primary point of contact for system updates, patches, and enhancements
• Partner with IT teams and external vendors to troubleshoot and resolve system issues
• Supervise and guide operations staff
• Proactively identify and resolve system or process challenges
• Support Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) processing and compliance

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required
• Minimum of 5+ years of experience in a college or university financial aid environment
• Experience with systems such as PeopleSoft Campus Solutions, COD, or similar platforms
• Strong understanding of financial aid lifecycle processes (award through disbursement)
• Ability to interpret technical documentation and translate business needs into system solutions
• Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent communication, organization, and stakeholder management skills
• Project management experience preferred

What We're Looking For

• A proactive, solutions-driven professional
• Strong balance of technical systems expertise and operational leadership
• Ability to collaborate effectively across departments and with external partners
• Detail-oriented with a strong focus on accuracy and compliance

$45.00 - $50.00 / hr