Description

DEPARTMENT: Financial Aid / STATUS: Full-time / CLASSIFICATION: Exempt /RANK /DATE LAST UPDATED: June 2024

PURPOSE

This role reports to the Associate Vice President of Enrollment Services. The Director of Financial Aid is responsible for overseeing and administering the financial aid programs at Life Pacific University. This role involves ensuring compliance with federal, state, and institutional regulations, providing leadership and strategic direction to the financial aid office, and supporting students in securing financial resources for their education.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities:

Leadership and Management:

• Oversee the daily operations of the financial aid office, including staff supervision, training, and development.
• Develop and implement policies and procedures to ensure efficient and effective delivery of financial aid services.
• Monitor and assess the performance of financial aid programs and staff, ensuring high standards of service and compliance.

Compliance and Reporting:

• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and institutional regulations regarding financial aid.
• Prepare and submit required reports to regulatory agencies, including the U.S. Department of Education.
• Conduct regular audits and assessments to maintain the integrity and accuracy of financial aid processes and records.

Financial Aid Administration:

• Oversee the application, awarding, and disbursement processes for all types of financial aid, including grants, loans, scholarships, and work-study programs.
• Evaluate and process financial aid applications, ensuring accurate and timely distribution of funds.

Student Support and Counseling:

• Provide guidance and counseling to students and families regarding financial aid options, application processes, and financial planning.
• Conduct financial aid workshops and information sessions for prospective and current students.
• Address and resolve complex financial aid issues and appeals.

Collaboration and Outreach:

• Work collaboratively with other departments, such as Admissions, Registrar, and Student Accounts, to support student recruitment and retention.
• Participate in professional development activities and stay current with changes in financial aid regulations and best practices.
• Other duties as assigned by AVP of Enrollment Services.

Requirements

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or a related field required. (Master’s degree preferred.) 

Knowledge and Skills

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in financial aid administration.
• Strong knowledge of federal and state financial aid regulations and compliance requirements.
• Experience with student information management systems (e.g., Empower, Slate).

Working Conditions and Environments:

• Flexibility in working hours required, including a variety of evening and weekend schedules during the year.

NOTE: Though not required, this position is optionally eligible for appointment as a Foursquare minister under certain conditions. If appointed as a minister, the employee will be available to provide pastoral care and prayer. In addition, s/he may be called upon to perform sacerdotal duties upon request of the University.

This job description does not contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the employee and is subject to revision when necessary.

Candidates must be Christian believers holding a Pentecostal/charismatic perspective and will be required to adhere to the University’s statement of faith and mission.

No person shall be denied employment at Life Pacific University on the basis of gender, race or ethnicity, national origin or ancestry, age, marital status, pregnancy, medical condition, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected classification, except as may be permitted by law.