IMPORTANT APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
Note: If you have an expansive CV, we recommend that you apply manually and only include the positions you have held in the last ten (10) years. You will then be able to attach your Resume/CV, as well as all other supporting documentation in the "My Experience" section of your application.
Job Description
SUMMARY
Reporting to the Director of Financial Aid, the Deputy Director of Financial Aid Operations plays a critical leadership role in managing the daily operations of the Office of Financial Aid at Montclair State University and serves as a member of the Enrollment Management Leadership team. The Deputy supports the Director in ensuring the effective, compliant, and student-centered delivery of all federal, state, and institutional financial aid programs. The Deputy Director provides operational oversight, supervises key staff, and leads the continuous improvement of processes within the Banner Financial Aid system to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and service excellence. The Deputy Director serves as the Acting Director in their absence.
PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Assist the Director in providing strategic and operational leadership for all aspects of financial aid administration.
Supervise the senior leadership team and evaluate staff responsible for awarding, compliance, customer service, and systems operations.
Develop, implement, and monitor operational policies and procedures to ensure compliance with federal Title IV regulations, New Jersey Higher Education Student Assistance Authority (HESAA) rules, United States Collegiate Athletic Association (USCAA), and institutional policies.
Oversee the functional operation of Ellucian Banner Financial Aid and newly implemented Workday systems, including setup, testing, rule building, and process automation.
Collaborate with Information Technology, Enrollment Management, and the Office of Student Accounts to maintain data integrity and improve system integration.
Manage the annual aid cycle setup, including verification, packaging, disbursement, and reconciliation processes.
Lead efforts to streamline operations, improve processing timelines, and ensure exceptional student service.
Ensure institutional compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations and audit requirements.
Prepare reports and data analyses for internal and external stakeholders, including audits, program reviews, and retention studies.
Maintain expert knowledge of federal and state regulations, and updating policies and procedures as needed.
Oversee reconciliation of all aid programs in collaboration with the Controller’s Office and the Office of Student Accounts.
Support initiatives to enhance financial literacy, outreach, and retention through proactive communication and counseling.
Partner with College/School Student Success Centers to align financial aid strategies with student retention and completion goals.
Develop and implement staff training programs related to regulatory updates, systems functionality, and customer service.
Represent the university at professional conferences, workshops, and committees (EASFAA, NJASFAA, NASFAA).
Participate in university and community events as needed.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Management retains the right to change or add job duties at any time.
QUALIFICATIONS
REQUIRED:
Master’s degree from an accredited college or university.
Minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in financial aid administration, including supervisory or management experience.
Minimum of 5 years of experience with Ellucian Banner.
Experience with report generation, preferably in COGNOS.
Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
Comprehensive knowledge of State and Federal regulations affecting financial aid.
Experience supporting Federal grants, State grants, Private and Direct Lending process.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with commitment to student service.
PREFERRED:
Proficiency in SQL
Proficiency in Spanish.
Proficiency in Workday Student
Experience with state grant systems
NASFAA credentials.
PROCEDURE FOR CANDIDACY
Applicants should include a resume and cover letter describing how their background, skills and education match the needs of the University. When applying, please take a moment to carefully read and follow the steps in the application instructions.
Salary Range
$126,900.00-$136,900.00 AnnualThe position may also be eligible for comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and tuition assistance. For further details, please visit: https://www.montclair.edu/human-resources/benefits/
Montclair State University considers factors such as, but not limited to, scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate’s relevant work experience, education, skills, and internal equity, when extending an offer.
Salary offers for internal employees who are part of a collective bargaining unit (CBU) and are applying to a position that is within a CBU will be determined in accordance with contractual provisions.
Department
Financial AidPosition Type
AdministrativeContact Information:
For questions or concerns, please contact Human Resources' Workday Recruiting Support at 973-655-5000 (Option 2), or email talent@montclair.edu.
Inclusion Statement
Montclair State University values access and educational excellence. We are committed to an environment of diverse perspectives which ensures that graduates will be civically engaged, committed to democracy, and prepared to thrive as global citizens. We foster a community that promotes varied experiences and voices. We seek applicants who will contribute diverse ideas and perspectives and who value an environment that promotes educational growth and advancement for all.
EEO/AA Statement
Montclair State University is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action institution with a strong commitment to diversity.
Additional information can be found on the website at
www.montclair.edu/human-resources/about-us/eo-aa-and-diversity/
Title IX and 34 C.F.R. 106 Policy
Montclair State is required by Title IX and 34 C.F.R. 106 not to discriminate on the basis of sex or gender, and does not discriminate on the basis of sex or gender in the operation of education programs and activities. The requirement to not discriminate on the basis of sex or gender in the operation of education programs and activities extends to admission and employment. For further details, please visit: https://www.montclair.edu/human-resources/job-seekers/