Financial Aid Programs Lead: Operations & Compliance

University of Southern California; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 84,000 - 94,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Southern California seeks an experienced Financial Aid Program Manager I to lead the financial aid unit, guide staff, and ensure compliant operations. You will mentor team members, handle complex student cases, and collaborate with campus partners to deliver accurate, student-centered aid services.

You will oversee packaging, processing, and reporting, while interpreting policies and using data to improve service delivery and program outcomes in a fast-paced university

Qualifications

• Lead staff and operations of a financial aid program with compliance to policies.
• Counsel students and families on aid eligibility, awards, and resources.
• Develop budgets, monitor disbursements, and manage data/reporting accuracy.
• Collaborate with campus partners and university leadership on program initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of the financial aid unit and staff.
• Recruit, hire, train, and schedule staff and student workers.
• Interpret policies and provide guidance to staff and partners.
• Review complex cases and apply professional judgment when needed.
• Monitor data quality and generate regular reports for leadership.

Skills

Leadership

Staff development

Financial aid operations

Policy interpretation

Student counseling

Data analysis

Budget management

Communication

Process improvement

Education

Bachelor's degree

Master's degree

Tools

Student-information systems

CRM platforms

Data-management systems

Job description

The University of Southern California seeks an experienced Financial Aid Program Manager I to lead the financial aid unit, guide staff, and ensure compliant operations. You will mentor team members, handle complex student cases, and collaborate with campus partners to deliver accurate, student-centered aid services.

You will oversee packaging, processing, and reporting, while interpreting policies and using data to improve service delivery and program outcomes in a fast-paced university