Associate Director-Financial Aid

Excelsior•Albany, NY

2d•$61,000 - $66,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Associate Director of Financial Aid plays a key leadership role in supporting the Director with the daily administration and strategic oversight of the Office of Financial Aid. This position helps coordinate and manage all aspects of Title IV program operations, ensuring accurate, compliant, and timely execution of federal, state, and institutional aid programs. The Associate Director contributes to the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of office policies and procedures, ensuring they align with current federal regulations, institutional goals, and best practices in the field of student financial services. A strong emphasis is placed on promoting processes that are efficient, transparent, and centered on enhancing the student experience. In addition to regulatory and operational responsibilities, the Associate Director provides critical support for financial aid packaging, awarding, and disbursement activities. The role includes monitoring eligibility, reviewing documentation, and ensuring the integrity of aid administration throughout the student lifecycle. The Associate Director also assists with high-level problem solving and serves as a resource to front-line staff, offering guidance, expertise, and hands-on support in areas such as counseling, application processing, verification, and customer service. By supporting staff development and helping maintain a welcoming, student-focused environment, the Associate Director contributes to the overall effectiveness of the office and the success of the students it serves. We believe work should fit your life, not the other way around. Our hybrid schedule includes two days on site in our Albany office, with the flexibility to work remotely the remaining days. Spend less time commuting and more time focusing on meaningful work or personal priorities. Core hours are 8:30 AM–5:00 PM, including a 1-hour lunch, for a 37.5-hour week.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required.
Minimum of 3 years of experience working in a financial aid office.
Demonstrated expertise in federal and institutional student financial aid regulations.
Proficiency with financial aid data management systems.
Strong skills in Microsoft Word and Excel.
Excellent communication skills, with a high level of attention to detail.
Strong analytical and problemâsolving abilities.

Nice To Haves

Experience with PowerFAIDS financial aid management system preferred.
Interest in supporting distanceâlearning initiatives and serving a diverse adult learner population.

Responsibilities

Administer Title IV program (s) for the University including, but not limited to awarding, verification, disbursement and assisting with reconciliation.
Remain current with and ensure compliance with all Federal Title IV regulations; develop and maintain policies and procedures in addition to editing any required forms and publications.
Stay current with knowledge and use of financial aid software, i.e. PowerFAIDS EDConnect, COD/NSLDS.
Work in collaboration with the Director to prepare for and engage in the annual SFA audit.
Will be required to present within the enrollment management unit as well as key units across campus.
Work to promote academic success, increase retention, decrease time toward graduation, and improve the overall educational experience of students.
Support the development of the whole student by providing excellent customer service and resolution of issues through telephone, email, and preparation of written correspondence for financial aid.
Participate in ongoing professional development along with the encouragement of the growth of colleagues.
Engage in and support the development and administration of Student Financial Services.
Other duties and responsibilities may be assigned in support of the needs of the financial aid office and the students we serve.