Job Summary:
The Director of Financial Aid is an integral member of the leadership team within the Division. They will participate in the development and implementation of the enrollment and recruitment plan. The Director is responsible for the administration of federal, state and institutional financial aid including institutional scholarships, endowments and grants in excess of $50 million annually. The Director will help develop and execute a department vision and strategy for leveraging financial aid resources and meeting student financial needs that are consistent with and support the University's enrollment goals. They are expected to work collaboratively with all internal colleagues in overseeing the development and implementation of financial aid strategies necessary for the recruitment of freshmen, transfer and graduate students, as well as the retention of current students. The Director is responsible for the efficient and effective daily procedures for financial aid administration while maintaining compliance with state and federal regulations. They are responsible for overseeing compliance with federal and state student financial aid statute and regulations. The Director will oversee the development of policies and procedures relating to financial aid. The director is responsible for daily activities within the office and will lead, monitor and develop a staff of six FTE.
Required Qualifications:
- Master's degree in related field
- Five (5) years of experience supporting with students and families with student aid, ideally in a management position.
- Experience with federal, state and internal audits, budget management, federal student aid reports.
- Demonstrated experience as a successful communicator with a thorough understanding of the role the Office of Financial Aid plays in advancing an institution's enrollment goals.
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Knowledge of federal and state financial aid regulations, including Title IV programs and audit/review processes.
- Strong analytical, leadership, and communication skills.
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Demonstrated commitment to access, equity, and student success.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Willingness to become a NASFAA Certified Financial Aid Administrator.
- Five to seven (5–7) years of progressive experience in financial aid administration, with supervisory and compliance responsibilities.
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Experience with leveraging institutional aid to support enrollment and net tuition revenue goals.
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Background in working with diverse student populations, including first-generation and underrepresented students.
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Familiarity with student information systems (PeopleSoft), enrollment CRM systems (Salesforce) and data analytics platforms (Tableau).
About Us:
The University of Nebraska at Kearney (UNK) is a public university committed to excellence in teaching, research, and community engagement. As part of the University of Nebraska system, UNK offers a supportive, student-focused environment with the resources of a larger institution. Located in central Nebraska, UNK serves around 6,000 students and is known for its strong academics, welcoming campus culture, and dedication to student success. Join a team that values innovation, collaboration, and the power of education to transform lives.
As a University of Nebraska employee, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, retirement, and wellness programs—plus 13 paid holidays each year, generous leave options, and tuition remission.