Associate Director

South Carolina DDSN; South Carolina; On-site; USD 90,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of South Carolina is seeking an Associate Director to oversee the administration of Federal Direct Student and Parent Loan programs and private educational loans, with responsibility for programs totaling over $250,000,000 annually.

Reporting to the EM Financial Aid and Scholarships department, the role demands strong leadership, exceptional communication, and a commitment to outstanding student service in a highly automated setting.

Qualifications

• Masters degree and two years experience in educational loan administration and 3 or more years of supervisory experience.
• Experience with student financial aid, preferably in a medium to large institution.
• Thorough knowledge of Direct Loan regulations and experience with financial aid software.

Responsibilities

• Oversee administration of the Federal Direct Student and Parent Loan programs and private educational loans.
• Provide leadership and strategic direction within the EM Financial Aid and Scholarships team.
• Ensure compliance with Direct Loan regulations and effective use of the financial aid system.

Skills

Leadership capabilities

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Commitment to service

Education

Masters degree

Tools

Direct Loan software

Job description

Associate DirectorDepartment: EM Financial Aid and ScholarshipsAdvertised Salary Range:Part/Full Time: Full Time

About UofSCFrom the Upstate to the Lowcountry, the University of South Carolina system is transforming the lives of South Carolinians through the impact of our eight institutions and 20 locations throughout the state. More than 50,000 students are enrolled at one of eight institutions, including the research campus in Columbia and comprehensive four-year universities in Aiken, Upstate and Beaufort. In addition, our Palmetto College campuses in Salkehatchie, Union, Lancaster and Sumter enable students to earn associate or bachelor's degrees through a combination of in-person, online or blended learning. All of our system institutions place strong emphasis on service — helping to build healthier, more educated communities in South Carolina and beyond.

Inclusive Excellence StatementAdvertised Job SummaryThe Associate Director will oversee the administration of the Federal Direct Student and Parent Loan programs, along with the administration of private educational loans. These programs total over $250,00,000 annually.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities

• Ability to work in a highly automated, complex organization.
• Should be able to effectively communicate orally and in writing with various publics.
• Leadership capabilities, a high energy level, and a sincere dedication to outstanding student service as well as outstanding organizational skills.
• Commitment to innovation, and the ability to be flexible when situations demand also required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Masters degree and two years experience in educational loan administration and 3 or more years of supervisory experience.
• Student financial aid experience required, preferably in a medium to large sized institution.
• Thorough knowledge of Direct Loan regulations required.
• Experience with a financial aid computer system essential.
• Supervisory experience preferred.

The University of South Carolina offers a valuable benefits package including but not limited to:

• Health and Life Insurance
• Retirement Programs
• Paid Tuition
• Dependent Scholarships
• Annual Leave
• Sick Leave
• 13 Paid Holidays (including an extended December holiday)
• Paid Parental Leave
• Professional Development Opportunities

Job Close Date10/25/2026

We are only accepting applications submitted by October 25, 2026.

The University of South Carolina does not discriminate in educational or employment opportunities on the basis of race, sex, gender, gender identity, transgender status, age, color, religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, genetics, protected veteran status, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions.