The Senior Director of Financial Aid Systems (SDFAS) plays a pivotal role in optimizing and managing financial aid operations through advanced technology solutions. This position ensures seamless financial aid processes, regulatory compliance, and system efficiency, enhancing the student experience. The SDFAS leads system integrations, data management, and analytics, supporting Enrollment Management goals related to student recruitment, retention, and financial aid optimization.
As a key member of the Enrollment Management Group (EMG), the SDFAS collaborates with university leadership, IT services, and cross-functional departments to centralize financial aid systems and drive operational excellence. This role requires both strategic leadership and hands-on technical expertise to ensure data integrity, compliance, and efficiency across financial aid technology platforms.
location: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
job type: Permanent
salary: $85,000 - 110,000 per year
work hours: 9am to 5pm
education: Bachelors
responsibilities:
Key Responsibilities:
Financial Aid Systems & Technology Management
- Lead the administration, optimization, and maintenance of financial aid systems, including Ellucian Banner, Axiom, Cognos, EDEexpress, CSS Profile, and Rapid Insight.
- Oversee system configurations, testing, and updates to ensure smooth operations and regulatory compliance.
- Develop and maintain reporting solutions for financial aid operations using SQL, Cognos, and other analytics tools.
- Ensure the integrity, security, and accuracy of financial aid data for compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations.
- Serve as the data steward for financial aid, ensuring accuracy in reporting, data reconciliation, and regulatory adherence.
- Generate and analyze reports to identify trends in discount rates, enrollment, and retention statistics.
- Ensure compliance with federal and state financial aid regulations, NCAA guidelines, and accreditation requirements.
- Oversee the completion of external financial aid surveys and institutional reporting.
- Act as the primary liaison between the Financial Aid Office and university IT services, Enrollment Management, the Registrar, and other administrative units.
- Support system integrations with admissions and retention platforms, including Technolutions Slate and vendor partnerships (CSS Profile, INAS, EAB, etc.).
- Provide training and technical support to financial aid staff, ensuring effective use of systems and compliance with institutional policies.
- Supervise and mentor staff, fostering professional development and team efficiency.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance financial aid business processes through technology.
- Assist in the development of enrollment modeling and projection databases.
- Lead projects to streamline student services and improve operational workflows across the financial aid lifecycle.
- Participate in professional development and campus events, including admissions recruitment activities.
qualifications:
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
- 8+ years of experience in financial aid systems management, with expertise in Ellucian Banner.
- Advanced proficiency in SQL, Cognos reporting, and data analytics.
- Experience ensuring compliance with federal and state financial aid regulations.
- Strong understanding of financial aid software platforms and integration with student information systems.
- Exceptional problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills.
- Ability to work independently while effectively collaborating with cross-functional teams.
- Willingness to work evenings and weekends as needed during peak enrollment periods.
skills: Preferred Qualifications:
- Master's degree in Information Systems, Higher Education Administration, or a related field.
- Experience with Power BI, Python, and additional financial aid software.
- Knowledge of Technolutions Slate, GlobalECS, and EAB.
- Membership and active engagement in NASFA, PASFA, or other relevant professional organizations.
Equal Opportunity Employer: Race, Color, Religion, Sex, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, National Origin, Age, Genetic Information, Disability, Protected Veteran Status, or any other legally protected group status.
At Randstad Digital, we welcome people of all abilities and want to ensure that our hiring and interview process meets the needs of all applicants. If you require a reasonable accommodation to make your application or interview experience a great one, please contact HRsupport@randstadusa.com.
Pay offered to a successful candidate will be based on several factors including the candidate's education, work experience, work location, specific job duties, certifications, etc. In addition, Randstad Digital offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health, an incentive and recognition program, and 401K contribution (all benefits are based on eligibility).
This posting is open for thirty (30) days.
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
