Financial Aid Assistant Director
Under the supervision of the Director of Financial Aid and in coordination with the Vice President of Student Services, the Financial Aid Assistant Director supports all aspects of the College's financial aid operations. This position assists in ensuring compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations and provides leadership and daily guidance to Financial Aid staff. The Assistant Director also serves as a primary point of contact for students, families, and campus partners regarding financial aid programs and processes.
Duties and Responsibilities of the Position :
- Counsel and assist students and parents applying for financial aid opportunities.
- Explain financial aid programs, eligibility criteria, and application procedures.
- Provides intake services, respond to student inquiries, and manage correspondence related to financial aid programs.
- Determine eligibility and calculate financial aid awards using institutional software systems; process applications, make corrections, and complete verifications.
- Monitor document tracking, correspondence, and award notifications for accuracy and completeness.
- Assist in ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations and audit requirements as specified by the U.S. Department of Education, the N.C. State Education Assistance Authority, and the N.C. Community College System.
- Monitor student academic progress (SAP) and other eligibility criteria; notify students of continued eligibility or suspension and process appeals as necessary.
- Assist the Veterans Certifying Official with VA certifications, adjustments, and communications with the Veterans Administration.
- Oversee the timely and accurate posting of financial aid funds to student accounts in preparation for disbursement.
- Assist with Return to Title IV (R2T4) calculations and related documentation.
- Maintain procedures, data, and reports necessary for annual federal, state, and institutional reporting.
- Support the annual setup and maintenance of financial aid systems, including software updates, data testing, and troubleshooting within Colleague.
- Stay informed about best practices, regulatory changes, and emerging trends in financial aid administration.
- Develop and conduct financial aid presentations; participate in recruitment and outreach activities.
- Build and maintain positive, professional relationships with students, colleagues, and community partners.
- Attend departmental, institutional, and professional development meetings as assigned.
- Handles sensitive student information with confidentiality and discretion.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Position Qualifications :
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities :
Understanding of and commitment to the unique nature and role of the community college with special reference to the total fulfillment of the open-door policy. Understanding of and commitment to the mission and vision of Richmond Community College. Demonstrated ability to exercise initiative, tact, and diplomacy, and possess a positive student-oriented attitude. Strong attention to detail and the ability to understand and comply with all regulations.
Minimum Education and Experience :
Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, with coursework in business administration, accounting, finance, computer information systems, or a closely related field required. Two years of related financial aid experience preferred. Must possess data entry work processing skills and be proficient in Microsoft Office products (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint). Experience with Colleague preferred.