Description
Position Overview
Reporting to the Executive Director of Student Services, the Director of Financial Assistance is an Administrative Faculty position at Western Nevada College. This role ensures the College’s compliance with all federal, state, and institutional financial aid regulations and the college’s ability to maintain administrative capability for participation in Title IV programs. The Director is responsible for developing, organizing, and implementing student-centered goals and programs that align with the College’s mission and Strategic Plan. The position oversees a dedicated Financial Assistance team consisting of four professional staff, one classified employee, and three student workers.
As a key member of the Enrollment Management Committee, the Director contributes to the development and execution of strategic enrollment initiatives. The position collaborates closely with the Directors of Admissions and Records, Academic Advising and Access, Disability Support Services, and the Controller’s Office. Additional responsibilities include managing all aspects of federal, state, and institutional financial aid reconciliation and reporting, ensuring compliance with changing regulations, and keeping College leadership informed of emerging trends and issues.
Job Duties
Policies and Procedures
Interpret, implement, and ensure compliance with federal and state regulations, institutional procedures, and eligibility requirements.
Maintain the Financial Assistance policies and procedures manual and organize materials for program reviewers, accreditation teams, and auditors.
Develop and implement office and institutional policies and procedures for awarding federal, state, and institutional funds in a timely, accurate, and equitable manner.
Budgeting
Oversee the Financial Assistance operating budget.
Monitor and ensure the appropriate use of all financial aid program budgets.
Oversee and participate in the reconciliation of Pell Grant, Direct Loan, FSEOG, and Federal Work-Study programs.
Prepare and submit drawdown requests to the Controller’s Office.
Supervision
Train, supervise, and evaluate Financial Assistance staff.
Maintain up-to-date staff position descriptions and conduct annual performance reviews.
Promote a safe, respectful, and healthy work environment.
Reporting
File the Title IV recertification application and report institutional changes to the U.S. Department of Education.
Prepare and submit the annual FISAP and other required NSHE and federal reports.
Student Interaction
Meet with students and families to provide financial aid counseling and support.
Coordinate and participate in financial aid outreach and educational activities.
Resolve student concerns and issues within established federal, state, and institutional regulations.
Technical Requirements
Collaborate with System Computing Services and the Assistant Director to implement and test new PeopleSoft bundles and system updates.
Troubleshoot and resolve issues in PeopleSoft and OnBase systems.
Other
Research and implement best practices in financial aid administration.
Partner with vendors and other stakeholders to implement and maintain loan default prevention initiatives.
Develop and implement new initiatives to improve office efficiency and service effectiveness.
Requirements
Minimum Qualifications
Master's degree and three years of related professional experience.
An equivalent combination of education and experience may be substituted for the Master's degree (i.e., BA+4 yrs related professional experience). A minimum of a Bachelor's degree is required.
Preferred Qualifications
Preferred, 7-10 years working with Title IV federal financial assistance programs.
Proficiency in word processing and spreadsheet software (e.g., Microsoft Word and Excel).
Excellent oral and written communication skills.
Experience working with diverse populations and demonstrated ability to use problem-solving skills to provide high-quality service to students, staff, and college leadership.
Experience using EdConnect, NSLDS, CPS, COD, and other financial aid software systems.
