Strategic Assistant Director, Federal & Special Programs (Student Aid)

SECNY Federal Credit Union; Mansfield (CT); On-site; USD 75,786 - 98,522; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee tuition waiver

Dependent tuition waiver

Job summary

University of Connecticut seeks an experienced Assistant Director to oversee the Federal & Special Programs Unit within the Office of Student Financial Aid Services. The role includes management of Pell Grants and Direct Loans across campuses, staff supervision, and collaboration with university partners.

The ideal candidate will have advanced knowledge of Title IV programs, strong leadership, and a track record in regulatory compliance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree from a college or university accredited by a US Department of Education or internationally recognized accrediting organization and five years of financial aid-related professional experience; OR Master’s degree from a college or university accredited by a US Department of Education or internationally recognized accrediting organization and 3 years of financial aid-related professional experience.
• Knowledge of federal and state regulations pertaining to financial aid, specifically including federal and grant programs.
• Supervisory experience, including two years serving as an advanced/senior team member or working as a project lead and demonstrated ability to effectively lead and manage a team.
• Strong written and oral communication skills and decision-making ability.
• Excellent interpersonal skills including the demonstrated ability to deal effectively with the public, University community, and external constituencies.

Responsibilities

• Overall management of the Federal Pell Grant and Federal Direct Loan Programs for all UConn campuses.
• Foster a cohesive team environment among Federal & Special Programs Unit staff through direct supervision, guidance, and professional development.
• Serve as the lead administrator for alternative (private) loans and the Nurse Faculty Program.
• Lead the University’s preferred lender list process.
• Work collaboratively with other University departments to develop efficiency and resolve complex grant and loan issues.
• Serve as a member of the management team within the office, establishing goals, and providing staff with strategic direction.
• Serve on committees and workgroups responsible for evaluating, planning, and implementing changes to federal student aid programs and institutional processes resulting from federal legislation, regulations, and policy changes, including the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

Skills

Financial aid knowledge

Supervisory experience

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Policy interpretation

Education

Bachelor’s degree from a US Department of Education-accredited institution

Master’s degree from an accredited institution

Tools

Oracle Student Administration System

Job description

University of Connecticut seeks an experienced Assistant Director to oversee the Federal & Special Programs Unit within the Office of Student Financial Aid Services. The role includes management of Pell Grants and Direct Loans across campuses, staff supervision, and collaboration with university partners.

The ideal candidate will have advanced knowledge of Title IV programs, strong leadership, and a track record in regulatory compliance.