Director of Financial Aid - job 1 of 2

The Director of Financial Aid at Unitek Learning is responsible for a range of crucial tasks, including awarding state and federal aid, managing disbursements, conducting internal audits, and overseeing compliance with regulations. They also play a key role in supporting students and collaborating with various departments to ensure a seamless aid process.

Candidates for the Director of Financial Aid at Unitek Learning should preferably hold a Bachelor’s degree and have at least 5 years of experience in financial aid. Familiarity with CampusVue® and strong organizational skills are also highly valued, alongside a deep commitment to customer service excellence.

The Director of Financial Aid directly impacts student success by ensuring that eligible students receive the necessary financial assistance and by guiding them through the complex financial aid process while remaining compliant with federal and state regulations. Their attention to detail and helpfulness ensures that students have the resources they need to pursue their educational goals.

At Unitek Learning, the Director of Financial Aid has exceptional growth potential, with opportunities for leadership development and additional training programs designed to foster career advancement. The company is committed to promoting from within, offering staff the chance to grow their careers in a supportive environment.

Unitek Learning provides a competitive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision insurance, generous vacation and holiday time, a 401K plan with company matching, and tuition assistance options for employees and their families. This comprehensive package underscores the company’s commitment to employee well-being and professional development.

When answering this question, highlight specific regulations you have managed in your previous roles. Discuss how you ensure compliance through audits and interactions with departments, emphasizing your attention to detail and organizational skills.

Provide an example from your past work where you addressed a discrepancy. Emphasize your problem-solving skills, the steps you took to rectify the issue, and how you communicated with students during the process.

Discuss methods you've used to communicate complex financial aid information clearly, such as workshops, one-on-one meetings, or informative materials. The focus should be on your ability to break down intricate concepts and support student comprehension.

Share specific projects or functionalities you've managed using CampusVue® or comparable platforms. Highlight your technical skills and any improvements you initiated in processing or reporting using the system.

Discuss techniques you employ to manage multiple responsibilities effectively, such as creating to-do lists, prioritizing based on deadlines, and utilizing tools to keep you organized. Mention any software or systems that help streamline your workflow.

Illustrate how teamwork enhances efficiency and effectiveness in financial aid. Share examples of collaboration with different departments and how it has positively affected student aid processing and support.

Provide a specific example of a challenging scenario. Discuss how you resolved the issue by listening to the student’s concerns, employing empathy, and ensuring they felt supported throughout the process.

Explain your methods for keeping current with financial regulations, such as attending workshops, reading industry publications, or participating in professional organizations. Demonstrate your commitment to ongoing education and compliance.

Discuss your perspective on the role's challenges, such as navigating regulations or managing complex disbursement scenarios, and explain how your skills and experience prepare you to handle these challenges effectively.

Share a unique combination of skills, experiences, and qualities that make you an ideal fit for the role. Emphasize your passion for helping students, your experience in the industry, and your track record of successful financial aid management.