Financial Aid Director

SCI-Arc seeks an experienced, student-centered, and detail-oriented Director of Financial Aid to lead all aspects of the institution’s financial aid operations. The Director is responsible for administering federal, state, institutional, and private financial aid programs while ensuring compliance with all applicable regulations and policies. The ideal candidate will bring strong leadership, regulatory expertise, analytical skills, and a commitment to helping students gain access to higher education. This role works collaboratively across departments, including Admissions, Student Services, Finance, Registrar, and Academic Affairs, to support institutional enrollment and retention goals Essential Duties and Responsibilities: Financial Aid Administration Direct and oversee all financial aid operations and services Administer federal Title IV, state, institutional, and private aid programs Manage financial aid awarding, packaging, verification, and disbursement processes Monitor student eligibility, satisfactory academic progress (SAP), and compliance requirements Maintain accurate student financial aid records and documentation Compliance & Regulatory Oversight Ensure institutional compliance with all federal, state, and accreditation regulations Serve as SCI-Arc’s primary resource for Title IV compliance and regulatory updates Prepare and coordinate audits, program reviews, and compliance reporting Develop and maintain financial aid policies and procedures Interpret changes in legislation and implement operational updates as needed Student & Family Support Counsel students and families regarding financial aid options, eligibility, and loan obligations Review professional judgment and special circumstance appeals Promote financial literacy and student success initiatives Ensure a high level of responsive and equitable student service Leadership & Collaboration Supervise and mentor financial aid staff Collaborate with Admissions on scholarship and enrollment strategies Work closely with Finance and Registrar teams on reconciliation and reporting Participate in institutional planning and strategic initiatives Support diversity, equity, and inclusion goals through accessible financial aid practices Systems & Reporting Oversee financial aid management systems and reporting processes Analyze financial aid data and trends to support institutional decision-making Prepare required federal, state, and institutional reports Ensure the integrity of financial aid data within student information systems Qualifications: Required Bachelor’s degree in Higher Education Administration, Finance, Business Administration, or related field Minimum of 5–7 years of progressive financial aid administration experience Demonstrated knowledge of federal Title IV regulations and compliance practices Supervisory or management experience Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills Experience with financial aid management systems and student information systems Ability to manage sensitive and confidential information with professionalism and discretion Preferred Qualifications Master’s degree preferred Experience working in higher education, arts education, or private institutions Familiarity with campus ERP systems such as PowerFAIDS, Banner, Colleague, or Jenzabar Experience supporting diverse student populations and international students We offer a great benefits package with medical, dental, vision, 401(k) and paid time off. SCI-Arc is an Equal Opportunity Employer.