Associate Director of Financial Aid - Program, Administration, and Technology

Associate Director of Financial Aid – Program, Administration, and Technology

Associate Director of Financial Aid is responsible for supporting the administration, reconciliation, and reporting of federal, state, and institutional student financial aid programs. This includes leading the financial aid systems team, managing R4T4 processing, ensuring compliance, supervising the Assistant Director of Program Administration and Technology, overseeing disbursement, preparing internal and external reports, serving as primary point of contact for audits, and advising stakeholders on application processes.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain policies and procedures for compliant administration of federal, state, and institutional programs.
• Serve as the School Destination Point Administrator.
• Supervise the Assistant Director of Program Administration.
• Provide support for annual audits and assist with strategic planning and budgeting.
• Collaborate with the director to conduct Ellucian Colleague FA Module set‑up each academic year.
• Oversee testing of patches and updates to the student information system software for the financial aid module.
• Lead Financial Aid Service operations and provide leadership in the director’s absences.
• Assist with training of staff and other college units on federal and state law changes.
• Represent the director at meetings college and in the community.
• Review, interpret, and implement new federal and state laws and regulations.
• Respond to data request and reporting needs.
• Reconcile federal aid programs (Pell, SEOG, FWS).
• Prepare internal and external reports (annual IPEDS/FAIS, FISAP).
• Oversee review of over‑awards and enforce preventive procedures.
• Approve aid for disbursement via the Ellucian Colleague FATR process.
• Coordinate with Student Accounts for compliance of disbursement and reconcile Pell Grant and Loan programs and state aid.
• Oversee entrance and exit loan counseling and manage financial‑literacy program vendor partner.
• Oversee compliant administration of loan and grant programs.
• Serve on campus committees addressing federal compliance and recipient needs.
• Work with Enrollment Services, Finance Office, and other units to resolve student issues.
• Maintain membership in professional organizations and attend conferences and training.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Minimum Education: Bachelor’s degree

Experience: Minimum 5 years in financial aid, at least 2 years in administration. Thorough knowledge of federal Title IV law, COD‑related programs, reconciliation and COD reject resolution. Preferred expertise with Ellucian Colleague financial aid modules and strong technology skills (Microsoft Office, imaging technology, web, content management).

Knowledge: Federal and state financial aid laws and regulations, college policies, FERPA, Colleague and Image Now systems, college personnel practices, and emergency operations.

Specialized Publications: Familiarity with U.S. Department of Education Financial Aid Handbook, federal regulations, Common Manual for federal loans, COD Technical Reference, NSLDS User’s Guide, SAIG Host Communication Guide, MHEC policies, NASFAA, SFA, and related journals.

Other Requirements: Strict confidentiality, regular attendance, effective communication, and consideration of sustainability initiatives.

Benefits

Competitive salary, medical and dental benefits, tuition reimbursement, paid leave, and retirement options through the Maryland Retirement and Pension System.

Applicant Instructions

*Pre‑employment criminal background investigation is a condition of employment.

HCC is interested in qualified applicants eligible to work in the United States. HCC will not sponsor work visas and requires applicants to live in states contiguous to Maryland. Applicants must complete the full HCC Employment Application.

EEO Statement

Howard Community College is an Equal Employment Opportunity & affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status. HCC understands that persons with specific disabilities may need assistance with the application or interview process.

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